By Cable Car to Hrebienok

Starý Smokovec – Hrebienok by ground cable car

Hrebienok Cable Car
Hrebienok
7 minutes

A Comfortable Ride to Hrebienok

255 m

Elevation gain between the starting point and the destination

1,272 meters above sea level

Terminal at Hrebienok

A Comfortable Journey to the Heart of the High Tatras

The ground cable car will take you comfortably from Starý Smokovec, at an elevation of 1,017 meters above sea level, directly to Hrebienok. The ride takes just under seven minutes and offers a pleasant start to your trip with views of the surrounding Tatra peaks.

Hrebienok is one of the most popular destinations in the High Tatras and also an excellent starting point for easy walks as well as longer mountain hikes. From there, you can head to the Studený Potok Waterfalls, the Tatra mountain huts, or relax with a snack right in Hrebienok.

Difficulty: Easy
Starting point: Starý Smokovec
Destination: Hrebienok
Length: 2.19 km
What can you experience and see along the route?
Views of Slavkovský štít
Views of Lomnický štít
The mountainous landscape above Starý Smokovec
A ridge at an elevation of 1,272 meters above sea level
Trailhead for the Studený Potok Waterfalls
Access to Popular Mountain Huts in the Tatras
What do you need to know before you arrive?
Check the current operating status of the cable car before you go
During peak season, expect a higher number of visitors
You can purchase tickets in advance
At higher elevations, it can be noticeably colder than in Starý Smokovec
Be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots for walks from Hrebienok
Adjust your return time to match the cable car's operating hours

Please read this before your visit

Cable Car Operations

The operating hours of the ground cable car may vary depending on the season, technical conditions, or inclement weather. Therefore, please check the current schedule, ticket prices, and the time of the last ride to Starý Smokovec before your trip.

Peak tourist season

On weekends, holidays, and during the peak tourist season, we recommend arriving well in advance. Even for a short walk, be prepared for sudden changes in the weather and dress appropriately for the mountain environment.

A trip that begins with a comfortable ride on the cable car

The ground cable car connects the center of Starý Smokovec with Hrebienok, one of the most important hiking starting points in the High Tatras. Thanks to the comfortable ride, the area is easily accessible for families with children, seniors, and visitors who want to save their energy for further hiking.

After getting off the cable car, you can continue along marked trails toward the Studený Potok Waterfalls or to the mountain huts. In the winter, the Tatra Ice Dome is a major attraction, featuring new ice sculptures and themed displays every year.

Discover the Tatras from Above

The cable cars will take you comfortably closer to the Tatra peaks, hiking trails, and popular attractions. During the ride, you can enjoy unique views of the mountain landscape and the panorama of the entire region.

The Tatra Mountains wake up differently every day

Current conditions, upcoming events, and editorial recommendations. Everything you need to know before heading to the Tatras.

Webcams

Most sidewalks are open
The chairlifts are in operation
The bike trails are open

Everything You Need to Know Before Your Trip

Answers to the most frequently asked questions about the High Tatras region.

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    The High Tatras have something to offer all year round. The best time for high-altitude hiking is from June to October, when the hiking trails at higher elevations are open. Fall brings more stable weather, pleasant temperatures, and beautiful views. Winter is ideal for skiing, winter walks, and visiting locations that are accessible year-round. Before setting out on a trip, always check the current weather conditions and any trail closures.

    You do not need a special permit for regular hiking on marked trails. However, you must comply with TANAP’s visitor regulations and seasonal closures, and you may only hike on open trails. Special rules apply, for example, to rock climbing, ski mountaineering, hiking off marked trails, or bringing a dog into the park.

    You can easily reach the main Tatra resorts by train. The Tatra Electric Railways connect Poprad, Starý Smokovec, Štrbské Pleso, and Tatranská Lomnica. A cog railway runs from Štrba to Štrbské Pleso. You can also take advantage of regular bus routes and seasonal shuttle services in the region.

    You can park in designated parking lots in the various Tatra villages. During peak periods, we recommend using the P+R park-and-ride lot at Eurocamp in Tatranská Lomnica and continuing by shuttle bus. From this parking lot, you can take public transportation to destinations such as Tatranská Lomnica, Tatranské Matliare, Biela Voda, or the Belianska Cave.

    For hiking, choose sturdy hiking boots with non-slip soles that stabilize your feet and protect them on rocky or wet terrain. Your gear should also include weather-appropriate clothing and a rain jacket. Sandals and regular city shoes are not suitable for more demanding hikes.

    When a storm is approaching, leave peaks, ridges, saddles, mountain passes, and open areas as soon as possible. Descend to lower elevations, avoid standing near isolated trees or metal objects, and keep your distance from other members of your group. If possible, take shelter in a mountain hut or a safe building. The best prevention is to check the weather forecast, set out early in the morning, and shorten or cancel your hike in a timely manner if conditions take a turn for the worse. Safety must take precedence over reaching your destination.