Mountain Trails [#07] - Turbacz

Turbacz, the highest peak of the Gorce Mountains, has an elevation of 1310 m above sea level and attracts hundreds of tourists every year. It lures visitors with its beautiful panorama of the Tatras from its summit, the largest network of trails in the Gorce Mountains, and a mountain hut. This peak is part of the Crown of Polish Mountains and lies on the Main Beskid Trail. Which trail to Turbacz is the most pleasant and easiest? The answer is simple – the yellow papal trail. This trail is gentle, making it a great starting point for your mountain hike in the Gorce Mountains.

The route begins in Nowy Targ at the Oleksówka housing estate and follows the yellow trail all the way to the hut. Along the way, we pass through Polana Dzubasówka and Wisielakówka, where it meets the green and blue trails. From the hut, the red trail leads to the summit of Turbacz.

- Walking time is approximately 5 hours, depending on the tourist's fitness level.

- Total ascent: 783 metres,

- Highest point: 1310 m above sea level,

- Trail length: 16 kilometres,

- No difficulties, no artificial aids.

The trailhead is located at the Oleksówka housing estate in Nowy Targ. For those driving, it's important to note that there is no parking available; you can try parking around the church. The trail starts off rather unpleasantly with an asphalt road, which at first may discourage some with a short, steep ascent. But I assure you, this is the first and last disappointment on the entire route, as we quickly leave the asphalt behind and enter the forest. The first glade we reach is Polana Dziubasówki 916 m above sea level, where we have a beautiful view of the surrounding peaks. Passing over the peak of Hrube, we arrive at Polana Wisielakówki, where there is a chapel of John Paul II. At the same time, the Tatras and the Pieniny Mountains along with Lake Czorsztyn come into view. Here, our trail merges with the green and blue trails. After the final ascent, we reach the PTTK hut named after Władysław Orkan on Turbacz, where it is worth stopping to enjoy the view of the distant peaks. Why? Because if we continue further up the red trail to Turbacz, we must be aware that the summit itself is heavily forested, so there are no views to be had there. At the top, alongside the spruce forest, we will find a stone obelisk. The return to the starting point is exactly along the same route.

A trip to Turbacz is a great option both in the summer and winter seasons. Upon reaching the trail junction, new opportunities open up for us to explore this beautiful mountainous region known as Gorce.

Author of the photos and text: Ewa Bandyk