Valley of the 5 lakes and Zawrat mountain pass Hike

Starting your journey near the well-known Palenica Białczańska car park, just outside Zakopane in Tatra County, Poland, you’ll find yourself at the gateway to one of the most breathtaking routes in the High Tatras. This point-to-point hike covers approximately 18 km (about 11 miles) with a challenging elevation gain of around 1300 metres (4,265 feet), making it a demanding adventure best suited for experienced hikers.Getting ThereReaching the trailhead is straightforward. From Zakopane, regular buses and minibuses run to Palenica Białczańska, the main entry point for the Polish side of the Tatra National Park. The journey takes about 30–40 minutes. If arriving by car, parking is available at Palenica Białczańska, but it fills up quickly, especially in summer, so an early start is recommended.Initial Ascent and the Valley of the Five LakesThe hike begins with a gentle walk along a well-maintained path, gradually ascending through dense spruce forests. After about 4 km (2.5 miles), you’ll reach Wodogrzmoty Mickiewicza, a series of picturesque waterfalls named after the poet Adam Mickiewicz. This is a popular rest spot and a good place to refill water bottles.Continuing upward, the trail becomes steeper as you approach the Valley of the Five Polish Lakes (Dolina Pięciu Stawów Polskich), a glacial valley renowned for its crystal-clear alpine lakes and dramatic granite peaks. Around the 8 km (5 mile) mark, you’ll arrive at the largest of these lakes, Wielki Staw Polski, sitting at 1,665 metres (5,463 feet) above sea level. The valley is a haven for wildlife—look out for marmots, chamois, and, if you’re lucky, golden eagles soaring overhead. The area is also rich in alpine flora, with rare species like the Tatra saxifrage and edelweiss dotting the meadows in late spring and summer.Climbing to Zawrat PassFrom the valley, the trail climbs sharply toward Zawrat Pass (Przełęcz Zawrat), one of the most iconic high-mountain passes in the Tatras. The ascent is rocky and exposed, with chains bolted into the rock to assist hikers on the final stretch. This section, covering about 2.5 km (1.5 miles) with a gain of nearly 500 metres (1,640 feet), requires sure-footedness and a head for heights. Weather can change rapidly here, so check conditions before setting out and be prepared for wind and sudden drops in temperature.Historical and Cultural SignificanceThe Valley of the Five Lakes and Zawrat Pass have long been central to Tatra mountaineering history. The area was a favorite of early Polish and Slovak climbers, and the mountain huts—such as Schronisko w Dolinie Pięciu Stawów Polskich—have hosted generations of hikers and explorers. The pass itself has been a strategic crossing point for centuries, used by shepherds, traders, and, during World War II, resistance fighters moving between Poland and Slovakia.Descent Toward KuźniceAfter cresting Zawrat Pass at 2,159 metres (7,083 feet), the trail descends steeply toward the Kuźnice area of Zakopane. The descent is rugged, with loose scree and occasional snow patches lingering into early summer. As you lose elevation, the landscape transitions from stark alpine terrain to lush subalpine forests, with panoramic views of the Gąsienicowa Valley and the surrounding peaks.Navigation and SafetyGiven the challenging terrain and variable weather, reliable navigation is essential. HiiKER provides detailed offline maps and up-to-date trail information for this route. Always carry a map, compass, and GPS device, and let someone know your plans before setting out.Wildlife and ConservationThe Tatra National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, home to unique ecosystems and protected species. Stay on marked trails, respect wildlife, and carry out all litter. The park is especially sensitive to human impact, so tread lightly and follow Leave No Trace principles.This hike offers a true immersion into the wild heart of the Tatras, combining natural beauty, rich history, and a physical challenge that rewards with unforgettable views and a deep sense of accomplishment.