Mountain Trails [#05] - Wysoka

Pieniny are most often associated with the characteristic view of the Three Crowns and the Dunajec Gorge. This low mountain range offers much more; we can find plenty of interesting and lesser-known hiking trails, both for walking and cycling. First, it is worth noting that this range is divided into three parts: Pieniny Spiskie, Pieniny Środkowe, and Małe Pieniny. It is in the last of these – with names that may seem quite unassuming – that we find the highest peak of the whole range. Wysoka, which we are referring to here, is a peak that rises to 1050m above sea level. It is important to mention that it belongs to the Polish Crown of Mountains. One of the most beautiful gorges in Poland, the Homole Gorge, leads to it. The route to the summit begins at Jaworki, follows a green trail through the Homole Gorge, then leads to the base camp under Wysoka, and continues along a blue trail through Polana pod Wysoką to the summit of Wysoka. Return via the same trail. - The walking time is approximately 3 hours, depending on the tourist's fitness level, - Total elevation gain: 547 meters, - Highest point: 1050 meters above sea level, - Trail length: 7 kilometers, - No difficulties or artificial aids; caution is advised in Homole Gorge during adverse weather conditions. We begin our hike on the green trail at the entrance to the Homole Gorge. Nearby, we find a large parking area, small food stalls, and souvenir shops. Despite the ticket booth at the entrance, there is currently no charge for entering the gorge. Our walk proceeds along the Kamionka stream, crossing it from one side to the other. Numerous footbridges and metal bridges along this section of the trail make it easier; however, they can be very slippery in unfavorable weather conditions. At the start, we are captivated by numerous small waterfalls and a rock needle protruding on the left - Wapiennik. The trail through the gorge is not difficult, so it can be completed relatively quickly, reaching a small glade with benches and tables where one can rest. In the next section of the green trail, small difficulties begin to arise, and the route becomes more taxing. Gradually gaining altitude, we reach Rówienki and the “Under Wysoka” camp that operates there. Continuing further, we leave the spacious glades and enter the forest, where we must tackle the steepest and most challenging section of the trail; fortunately, it is very short. Our trail merges with the blue trail, which leads via metal stairs to the top, where there is a viewing gallery secured with railings. From Wysoka, we can enjoy a wonderful view of the Pieniny, Spiska Snow, the Radziejowa Range, the Tatra Mountains, and Babia Góra. The return to the starting point is via the same trail, but... If Wysoka alone is not enough, and there is still plenty of time and energy left, one can continue along the blue trail to the Shelter under Durbaszka. There, tourists are greeted with beautiful views, delicious food, and hot tea. From the shelter, we have two options for returning to our starting point. The first is to return via the exact same trails we came. The second, my favorite, is a loop - a 40-minute descent down a gravel road leading to the main road in Jaworki and the parking area at the entrance to Homole Gorge. The Pieniny are a great option for a family holiday. The trails there are not too demanding but very beautiful. They will therefore attract both seasoned tourists and those who are just taking their first steps in the mountains.   Photographer and author of the text: Ewa Bandyk