Skalnaté pleso–Hrebienok Nature Trail

Discover the nature, history, and conservation of the Tatra Mountains right along the Tatra Highway.

Hrebienok Nature Trail
Tatranská Lomnica
5 km

Length of the nature trail

2 hours 30 minutes

Transition Time

12

Educational Stops

Take a walk among the Tatra lakes, valleys, and waterfalls

The nature trail leads from Skalnaté Pleso along the red-marked Tatra Main Trail, past the trail junction near Zamkovský Chalet, Obrovský Waterfall, and the trail junction above Rainerova Chalet, all the way to Hrebienok. The trail can also be hiked in the opposite direction, but in that case, you should expect a steeper climb.

Twelve educational stops introduce visitors to the Tatra nature, its conservation, and the history of making the High Tatras accessible. Along the way, the views alternate between Skalnatá Valley, high-mountain slopes, forests, and the waterfalls of Studený Creek.

Starting point: Skalnaté pleso
Destination: Hrebienok
Marking: Red marker
Difficulty: Moderate
What services do we offer?
12 educational stops
Tatra Highway
A Huge Waterfall
Mountain huts along the route
What do you need to know before you arrive?
Allow about 2 hours and 30 minutes for the hike
We recommend sturdy hiking shoes
Be sure to bring plenty of water and a small snack
Be sure to pack a waterproof jacket and a warmer layer
Check the mountain weather before you go
Check the current operating status of the cable cars

Please read this before your visit

Access to the sidewalk

You can reach Skalnaté pleso by cable car from Tatranská Lomnica or on foot along the hiking trail. If you hike up on foot, the total distance, elevation gain, and duration of the trip will all increase significantly.

Movement within a protected area

The trail runs through the Tatra National Park and the Skalnatá dolina and Studené doliny nature reserves. According to the visitor regulations, pets are not allowed on this section of the Tatra Main Trail. Stay on the marked trail and take all your trash with you.

Discover the Tatras Step by Step

Educational trails will guide you through the Tatra Mountains’ natural landscape, history, and local points of interest. During a pleasant walk, you’ll discover the region’s unique spots and learn more about the landscape around you.

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.