LAZY Loop Through Starolesnianska Polana and Hrebienok

Tatranská Lomnica – Starolesnianska Poľana – Hrebienok – Starý Smokovec – Tatranská Lomnica

Cross-country ski trail
Tatranská Lomnica
14.33 km

A longer running loop between the Tatra villages

Challenging

3 hours 15 minutes

Estimated time to complete the entire circuit

From Tatranská Lomnica through the forests all the way to Hrebienok

The LAZY trail begins in Tatranská Lomnica and follows a forest path toward Starolesnianska Poľana. The initial section of the trail is mostly uphill and gradually gains elevation, making it particularly suitable for runners who are already comfortable with longer distances and maintaining a steady pace on ascents.

From Starolesnianska Poľana, the trail continues to Hrebienok and then descends to Starý Smokovec. The final stretch leads back to Tatranská Lomnica through Tatra villages along paved sections. It is a varied route that combines a more mountainous character in the first half with a gentler return in the second half.

Trail difficulty: Challenging
Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Surface: Forest trail and paved sections
Track Type: Circuit
What can you experience and see along the route?
Starolesnianska Glade
Rainer's Cabin
Comb
Tatra villages between Smokovec and Lomnica

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What do you need to know before you arrive?
The course is suitable for recreational runners who are in good physical condition
Allow about 3 hours and 15 minutes to complete the entire circuit
In the opening section, expect a longer, continuous climb
The route alternates between a natural hiking trail and a paved surface
Choose all-purpose or trail running shoes with good traction
Bring your own water, a small snack, and an extra light layer
In winter, check the snow conditions, icy roads, and current restrictions

Please read this before your visit

Fitness and Distribution of Strength

Although the course isn't technically extremely challenging, its length and elevation profile make it a more demanding running route. The biggest challenge is the climb from Tatranská Lomnica to Starolesnianska Poľana, so be sure to pace yourself from the very start.

Interior and Features

The route alternates between natural mountain trails and paved sections. All-purpose or trail running shoes are best, as they can handle both softer and harder surfaces. In wet or winter weather, expect reduced traction.

Characteristics of the Course

The course winds through both mountainous and rural terrain, offering a varied running experience. The first half will test your endurance on the climbs, while the second half allows for a smoother return via Hrebienok and Starý Smokovec back to Tatranská Lomnica.

From the Tatra forests to the promenade between the villages

Elevation Profile

The trail leads from Tatranská Lomnica to Starolesnianska Poľana, where the highest point of the loop is located. This is followed by a gently undulating section to Hrebienok and then a longer descent to Starý Smokovec. The final stretch back to Tatranská Lomnica has a gentler gradient and is more comfortable to ride on paved sections.

It is precisely the combination of length, greater elevation gain, and varied terrain that makes this course more appropriately classified as challenging.

Course Route

The run starts in Tatranská Lomnica and heads toward Starolesnianska Poľana. The initial section winds through a forest and gradually climbs, making it the most challenging part of the entire course.

From Starolesnianska Poľana, continue toward Hrebienok. You’ll then head down to Starý Smokovec, where the mountainous terrain gives way to a more leisurely journey between villages.

From Starý Smokovec, you’ll head back through Horný Smokovec and Tatranská Lesná to Tatranská Lomnica. This final stretch is more gradual and ideal for finishing the entire route at a steady pace.

Course Markings

Tatranská Lomnica – Starolesnianska Poľana
: Hiking trail leading to higher elevations

Starolesnianska Poľana – Hrebienok
A mountain trail winding through the Tatra forests

Hrebienok – Starý Smokovec
: Descent along the access trail

Starý Smokovec – Tatranská Lomnica
Return via the Tatra villages

Stops along the route

Tatranská Lomnica
Starting and finishing points of the LAZY trail

Starolesnianska Glade
The most challenging high-altitude section of the loop

Hrebienok
A key point on the route and the start of the descent

Starý Smokovec
Transition from the mountain section to the return leg

Tatranská Lesná
The last settlement before returning to Tatranská Lomnica

Explore the region in your running shoes

The Tatra Mountains offer a diverse network of running trails for both recreational and experienced runners—from easy trails in the foothills to challenging mountain loops with elevation gains and views that make every kilometer run well worth it.

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.