5866 – Poprad – Gerlachov – Tatranská Polianka

From Poprad, directly below Gerlachovský štít

Bike Route 5866 - Poprad - Gerlachov - Tatranská Polianka
Poprad
13.4 km

Route from Poprad to the Tatra Mountains

310 m

Elevation Gain During the Ascent

67 min

Estimated travel time

From the town at the foot of the Tatra Mountains, through the open countryside, all the way to Tatranská Polianka

The bike route begins in the Poprad-Veľká district and continues past the Poprad-Tatry Airport through Batizovce to Gerlachov. As you ride through the open landscape at the foot of the Tatras, panoramic views of the High Tatras gradually come into view.

Beyond Gerlachov, there is a steeper climb along the main road up to Tatranská Polianka at an elevation of 1,005 meters above sea level. This is a popular starting point for trips to the Velická Valley, the Sliezsky House, and hikes around Gerlachovský Peak. In the opposite direction, the route is mostly downhill.

Difficulty: moderate
Surface: asphalt
Marking: green C
Bicycle: road or gravel
What We Offer
Views of the High Tatras
Route along the airport
Connection to Sliezsky Dom

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What do you need to know before you arrive?
Download the GPX file or an offline map of the route
Be sure to bring plenty of water and a small snack
A road bike or gravel bike is suitable for this route
When riding through towns, pay close attention to the bicycle signs
On sections of the main road, pay extra attention to traffic
After passing Gerlachov, pace yourself for a steeper climb

Please read this before your visit

Traffic on the route

The bike route follows local roads and, toward the end, also runs along the main road. Ride on the right, use high-visibility gear, and pay extra attention when passing through intersections.

A More Challenging Conclusion

The section from Poprad through Batizovce to Gerlachov has a gentler gradient. A steeper climb begins just past Gerlachov and continues toward Tatranská Polianka.

Direction of travel

Coming from Poprad, you’ll climb approximately 310 meters in elevation. When traveling in the opposite direction from Tatranská Polianka, the route is mostly downhill and less physically demanding.

More than 13 km from Poprad, directly below Gerlach

Cycle Route 5866 begins in the Poprad-Veľká district and continues past the Poprad-Tatry Airport through Batizovce and Gerlachov to Tatranská Polianka. It connects the city with the villages at the foot of the Tatras and offers gradually unfolding views of the High Tatras panorama.

The first part of the route is relatively flat, while a steeper climb begins past Gerlachov. The destination is Tatranská Polianka, at an elevation of approximately 1,005 meters above sea level, known as the starting point for the Velická Valley.

Past the Airport to Batizovce

From Poprad-Veľká, the route heads north past the Poprad-Tatry Airport. It then continues along local roads to the village of Batizovce.

Views near Gerlachov

Past Batizovce, you’ll reach Gerlachov, which offers striking views of the Tatra Mountains. The village is also the last stop before the more challenging final stretch.

The Ascent to Tatranská Polianka

Beyond Gerlachov, the route’s profile changes and the road begins to climb more steeply. The final section follows the main road all the way to Tatranská Polianka.

Explore the region on two wheels

The Tatra Mountains offer an extensive network of bike trails for every type of cyclist—from easy trails in the foothills to challenging mountain loops with views that make every strenuous pedal stroke worthwhile.

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.