From Smokovec to Hrebienok on foot, straight to the Ice Dome
Starý Smokovec – Hrebienok – Starý Smokovec
Round-trip distance
A Winter Walk
Covered with snow or ice in winter
From Starý Smokovec to Hrebienok for Ice Sculptures
Take a pleasant winter walk from Starý Smokovec to Hrebienok, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the High Tatras. The trail winds through mountainous terrain and offers beautiful views of the snow-covered Tatra landscape. The reward for the climb is a visit to the unique Tatra Ice Dome, which enchants visitors every winter with its impressive architecture and works of art carved from ice.
Hrebienok lies at an elevation of 1,285 meters above sea level and is one of the main hiking starting points in the High Tatras. It is a popular starting point for other winter hikes in the surrounding area, such as to Rainerova Chata or the Studený Potok waterfalls.
Facilities for rest and refreshments are located at the upper station of the ground cable car.
What can you experience and see along the route?
Trasa a výškový profil
What do you need to know before you arrive?
Please read this before your visit
The hike begins in the center of Starý Smokovec, from where you’ll head toward the lower station of the cable car to Hrebienok. From there, you’ll continue on foot along the hiking trail marked with green signs.
During the hike, you can enjoy the tranquility of the mountain setting, the fresh air, and the beauty of the snow-covered landscape. The trail is generally easy to follow, but during the winter months, it may be covered with snow or ice in some places.
After about an hour’s walk, you’ll arrive at Hrebienok (1,285 m above sea level), one of the most popular tourist destinations in the High Tatras. During the winter season, you can admire the unique Tatra Ice Dome, featuring new themed ice architecture each year, as well as artistically carved ice sculptures created as part of the Tatry Ice Master event.
Hrebienok is also a popular starting point for other winter hiking trips in the surrounding area, such as to Rainerova Chata or the Studený Potok waterfalls. After your walk, you can treat yourself to a short break, some refreshments, and warm up with a cup of hot tea.
A ground cable car runs from Starý Smokovec to Hrebienok. If necessary, you can use it as an alternative for the return trip, but be sure to check its current operating status and schedule before your trip.
A hike that will test your fitness and reward you with views from Hrebienok
Elevation Profile
The route begins in Starý Smokovec, which is located at an elevation of approximately 1,010 m above sea level on the official regional map . The destination, Hrebienok, lies at an elevation of 1,285 meters above sea level. The approximate elevation difference between the starting point and the destination is 254 meters.
The first half of the route is an ascent and leads mostly uphill. After reaching Hrebienok, the return trip follows the same paved road, this time downhill.
Route Description
From Starý Smokovec, head toward the lower station of the cable car to Hrebienok. Instead of taking the cable car, continue on foot along the hiking trail, which gradually ascends into the Tatra forest.
The trail will take you all the way to Hrebienok, to the upper station of the cable car. Here you can visit the Tatra Ice House, rest, grab a snack, and enjoy the views of the surrounding Tatra peaks. After your break, return along the same hiking trail or paved road back to Starý Smokovec.
Trail Markings
The trail leads from Starý Smokovec to Hrebienok along the green-marked hiking trail. It is easy to follow and well-marked, though it may be covered with snow or ice in winter. To find your way, follow the local signposts marked “Hrebienok.”
Stops along the route
Starý Smokovec – approximately 1,010 m above sea level
Starting and ending point.
Ground Cable Car Lower Station: A landmark at the start of the ascent to Hrebienok.
Hrebienok – 1,285 m above sea level
The destination of the hike and an important starting point for other hiking trails.
Upper Station A place to relax before returning to Starý Smokovec.
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Webcams
Poprad
2°C
Overcast
Lomnický štít
-3°C
Fog
Tatranská Lomnica
2°C
Fog
Starý Smokovec
3°C
Partly cloudy
Hrebienok
3°C
Mostly clear
Štrbské Pleso
5°C
Partly cloudy
Skalnaté pleso
4°C
Mostly clear
Solisko
2°C
Fog
Everything You Need to Know Before Your Trip
Answers to the most frequently asked questions about the High Tatras region.
