2864 – Starý Smokovec – Hrebienok

A short but steep climb to Hrebienok

Bicycle Route 2864 - Starý Smokovec - Hrebienok
Starý Smokovec
2.8 km

A short climb with a steep ascent

270 m

Ascent to Hrebienok

25 min

Estimated travel time

A hike from Starý Smokovec to a popular starting point for Tatra hikes

The bike trail begins at the Vysoké Tatry Municipal Office in Starý Smokovec and climbs steadily along a paved road all the way to Hrebienok. The steady climb will test your fitness, with the steepest section awaiting cyclists just before the final turn. The route is particularly suitable for more experienced cyclists or those riding e-bikes.

At Hrebienok, you can rest, grab a snack, and enjoy the views of the Tatra peaks. The area is also a popular starting point for hikes to the Studený Potok Waterfalls, the Veľká and Malá Studená Valleys, and high-altitude mountain huts.

Difficulty: moderate
Surface: asphalt
Marking: blue C
Bicycle: road, trekking, and mountain
What We Offer
Views of the Tatra Peaks
Refreshments at Hrebienok
The Waterfalls of Studený Creek
Trails to Mountain Cabins
Hiking Trails

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What do you need to know before you arrive?
The route begins at the town hall in Starý Smokovec
The total length of the route is 2.8 km
The entire route is paved with asphalt
There are also hikers along the trail
The steepest climb awaits you before the last turn

Please read this before your visit

Fitness and Difficulty

Although the route is short, it consists of an almost continuous climb and gains approximately 270 meters in elevation over 2.8 km. It is particularly suitable for cyclists in good physical condition or for riding an e-bike.

The Course of the Ascent

The climb is mostly steady. In the second third, there is a short, gentler section where you can catch your breath before the final stretch. The steepest section comes just before the last turn; the final stretch to Hrebienok is almost flat.

Considerate Driving

Pedestrians also use this trail, so please adjust your speed to the current conditions. Pay special attention when descending, on curves, and on busy sections near Hrebienok.

A short but steep climb from Starý Smokovec to Hrebienok

Bike Trail 2864 begins at the town hall in Starý Smokovec and climbs along a paved road to Hrebienok. Over a distance of just under three kilometers, it climbs approximately 270 meters in elevation, making for a short but physically demanding ride.

The trail ends at one of the most popular tourist destinations in the High Tatras. Hrebienok offers places to eat, views of the surrounding peaks, and connections to hiking trails leading to the Studený Potok Waterfalls and mountain huts.

A continuous asphalt climb

The entire route follows a paved road and climbs almost continuously. The surface is suitable for road, trekking, and mountain bikes; however, the cyclist’s fitness level is the deciding factor.

The Most Challenging Finale

The second third of the route features a short, gentler stretch that allows cyclists to regain their strength before the finish. The steepest climb awaits cyclists before the final turn, after which a more gradual descent follows.

Hrebienok as a destination for a trip

After the hike, you can rest and grab a bite to eat right at Hrebienok. This spot also serves as the starting point for hikes to the Veľká and Malá Studená valleys or to the Studený Potok Waterfalls.

Route Markings

The bike trail is marked with a blue “C” symbol. While riding, be mindful of hikers, and when returning to Starý Smokovec, adjust your speed to accommodate the steeper descent.

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.