Mountain Trails [#09] - Skrzyczne

Skrzyczne (1257 m a.s.l.) is one of the distinctive peaks of the Beskids. Not only because it is the highest peak of the Silesian Beskid. It attracts attention from afar, all thanks to the enormous transmission mast that stands on its summit. The most significant point at the top is the PTTK Mountain Lodge with a sizeable terrace from which a panorama of the Beskids and the Tatras unfolds. It is worth adding that Skrzyczne is part of the Crown of Polish Mountains. A trip to Skrzyczne is an excellent solution for those who appreciate active recreation. For those who value comfort – a chairlift leads to the summit from Szczyrk. Interestingly, the name "Skrzyczne" reportedly comes from the croaking of frogs that once inhabited the pond between Skrzyczne and Małe Skrzyczne.

 One of the most beautiful trails is in the form of a loop, starting and ending in the village of Ostre. 

- The walking time is about 5 hours, depending on the tourist's fitness level,

- The trail is marked by blue, green, and yellow signs,

- Total elevation gain: 829 meters,

- Highest point: 1257 meters above sea level,

- Trail length: 16 kilometers,

- No difficulties, no artificial aids, well-marked trail.

Those with vehicles will find a fairly large, free parking area near the starting point (around the bus loop in Lipowa Górna). We begin our journey near Hotel Zimnik, where we follow the blue trail signs towards the PTTK Mountain Lodge at Skrzyczne. The ascent is quite steep from the start, but it's worth the effort; the higher we go, the more beautiful the views become. After the first half kilometer, the ascent becomes more manageable. The trail leads along a relatively wide path through the forest. A good resting point is Hala Jaskowa, which is halfway up to the peak. There we will find a memorial stone with a commemorative inscription and, most importantly – a view of the Silesian Beskid and the Żywiec Basin. Having gathered our strength, we leave the glade to re-enter the forest. The last kilometer of the ascent follows a rocky and relatively steep path; however, the effort is rewarded by the Lodge, which is within reach. In front of the building, on a vast terrace, we will find numerous tables with benches, a sports field, a climbing wall, and a playground. Besides lunch dishes, the lodge serves delicious blueberry cake. Additionally, at the summit, we will find the aforementioned television transmitter and the cable car station. It is worth resting and enjoying the views; we now begin a rather long descent along the green trail. Along the way, we will reach Małe Skrzyczne (1211 m a.s.l.) and the incredibly charming Malinowska Skała (1152 m a.s.l.), which offers an excellent viewpoint. We continue descending towards the trail junction under Malinowska Skała, where we turn left onto the yellow trail, heading towards Lipowa PKS, where we conclude our journey.

 Skrzyczne, in addition to standard hiking trails, also offers ski slopes of varying difficulty levels and cycling trails (including extreme downhill routes).

Photo and text by: Ewa Bandyk