Mountain Trails [#01] - Hala Gąsienicowa

The route to Hala Gąsienicowa from Kuźnice is one of the most popular trails in the Tatras, enticing with its close proximity to Zakopane, easy access to the starting point, pleasant trail navigation, and breathtaking views. Hala Gąsienicowa is associated with names like Murowaniec, Czarny Staw Gąsienicowy, and Kościelec. But at the very beginning, it’s worth asking yourself the question: where is it located and what is the best way to get there?

Hala Gąsienicowa is a Tatra meadow that is part of the Gąsienicowa Valley located in the central part of the Polish Tatras. The trail to Hala starts and ends in Kuźnice, making it an ideal solution for loop lovers. Those arriving by car can leave their vehicles in the parking lot under Krokiew, while those without transportation can take a bus or minibus from the Bus Station in Zakopane. The most convenient route to Hala is to take the yellow trail from Kuźnice through Jaworzynka, and then the blue trail across the Pass between the Peaks to Hala Gąsienicowa and Murowaniec. For the return, the whole time along the blue trail, through the Pass between the Peaks and Boczań, back to Kuźnice.

- The walking time is about 4 hours, depending on the tourist's fitness level.

- Total ascent: 674 m

- Highest point: 1563 m above sea level.

- Length of the trail: 10 km

- No difficulties, no artificial supports, short exposure when descending on the blue trail.

What can we see on the trail? Walking through the Jaworzynka Valley, you'll see beautiful wooden sheds and shepherd huts. Upon reaching the Pass between the Peaks, a view opens up of the summits surrounding Hala Gąsienicowa. It’s worth pausing momentarily to enjoy the incredible view of Żółta Turnia, Granaty, Czarny Ściany, Kozi Wierch, Kościelec, and Świnica. Continuing along the comfortable, stony path, we descend to Hala Gąsienicowa, where the distinctive buildings come into view: Księżycówka (TPN ranger station), Betlejemka (Central Training Centre for PZA), and the huts. The most attention-grabbing feature in the panorama is the characteristic triangular massif of Kościelec (2155 m above sea level), one of the most beautiful Polish Tatra peaks. We can also closely observe the ridge of Orla Perć. Continuing further along the blue trail, we reach the PTTK Murowaniec shelter, where it's a must to try their delicious apple pie and take a moment to rest while enjoying the surrounding views. Descending on the blue trail, one can see a rather unusual profile of Giewont over the Jaworzynka Valley. Just beyond the pass begins a short, exposed but fairly wide section that may pose challenges to those not accustomed to it, so it is advised to exercise caution
and be careful.

What if Hala Gąsienicowa itself is a bit too little?

For those who aren't afraid of a few extra kilometres and elevation gains, but aren't yet seasoned hikers, a good option is to take the blue trail from the Murowaniec shelter to Czarny Staw Gąsienicowy and return the same way. This trail leads through dwarf pine, and due to the large stone blocks lining it, it is very comfortable and pleasant. Halfway along the way, at the bottom of the scree, there is a stone obelisk commemorating the tragic death of Mieczysław Karłowicz – a pioneer of Polish mountaineering. Walking along the slope of Mały Kościelec, we reach the edge of Czarny Staw, where its vastness reveals itself, after all, it is the largest lake in the Gąsienicowa Valley. This place attracts many tourists, especially in the season. For some, it is a destination, while for others, it is a transitional point on more difficult trails. From Czarny Staw, trails branch off towards: Kozią Przełęcz, Granaty, Zawrat or Kościelec, which require experience and familiarity with highly exposed terrain.

- Walking time is about 1 hour, depending on the tourist's fitness level.

- Total ascent: 166 meters.

- Highest point: Czarny Staw Gąsienicowy 1628 m above sea level.

- Length of the trail: 3 kilometres.

- No difficulties, no artificial supports, no exposure.

The trail to Hala Gąsienicowa is ideal for those who love beautiful mountain views and want to start their adventure on a mountain trail.

 

Photo and text author - Ewa Bandyk