The mountain hut at the Zelené Pleso mountain lake is a popular destination in winter. (source: Matúš Beňo)
From Wednesday, November 1, the seasonal closure of hiking trails in the High Tatras will go into effect once again. The reason is to allow nature and animals to rest.
Although the closure will last until June 14, 2024, this does not mean that the highest mountain range in Slovakia will be completely off-limits to hikers and tourists.
Tatras travel guide: A fresh take on the stunning soul of Slovakia. CLICK TO BUY ONE. (source: Spectacular Slovakia)
The closure concerns trails to peaks, saddles and the mountain hut Chata pod Rysmi. These trails will be marked on the spot. However, there are other trips people can set out on.
These include a hike to Sedlo pod Ostrvou, which starts right above the Popradské Pleso mountain lake, as well as trips to Skok waterfall, several mountain lakes such as Jamské Pleso, Batizovské Pleso under the foot of Slovakia's highest peak Gerlach and Biele Pleso. The Slavkovská Vyhliadka viewpoint, the popular Hrebienok resort, as well as 12 mountain huts, are open to tourists all year long as well.
You can find the map of trails open all year round here (in English).
The Mountain Rescue Service reminds tourists to carry appropriate winter gear and follow weather reports and warnings. In addition, daily temperatures can rapidly change, and high altitude trails can freeze.
