Lysá Poľana

A village where the Slovak Tatra Mountains meet Poland

Lysá Poľana
970 meters above sea level

Elevation

The northernmost

A Tatra settlement in the High Tatras

2 countries

A village on the Slovak-Polish border

A border settlement at the entrance to the Bielovodská Valley

Lysá Poľana is a tourist settlement that is part of the village of Tatranská Javorina. It is located on the northern edge of the High Tatras, right on the state border with Poland, and serves as an important starting point for the Bielovodská Valley.

A blue-marked hiking trail leads from the settlement along the Biela Voda stream through the Bielovodská Polana. The trail continues past Hviezdoslav’s Waterfall toward the Kačacie and Litvorová valleys. A more peaceful alternative is the path to the forest ranger station or the bike trail leading through the Bielovodská Valley.

Starting point for hiking and biking trails
What We Offer
Hiking Trails to the Bielovodská Valley
A bike trail suitable for mountain bikes
An Easy Hike to the Forest Lodge
Road connection between Slovakia and Poland
What do you need to know before you arrive?
During peak season, parking can be very limited
Check public transportation schedules in advance
There are limited options for food and other services in the village
Be sure to bring plenty of water and your own food on the hike
Before your trip, check the weather and the condition of the hiking trails
Longer trails are subject to TANAP's seasonal closure

Please read this before your visit

Parking and Transportation

Lysá Poľana is one of the busiest places on the Slovak-Polish border. During weekends and the peak tourist season, expect heavy traffic and limited parking.

Refreshments and Services

There are no extensive tourist facilities in the village itself. Therefore, before entering the valley, be sure to bring plenty of water, food, and everything else you’ll need for your planned trip.

Hiking Trails

The trail to the forest ranger station in the Bielovodská Valley has a compacted gravel surface and is approximately four kilometers long. The more challenging sections leading into the high-mountain terrain require good physical condition, appropriate gear, and adherence to seasonal closures.

Where to Stay in the Area

Plan a comfortable stay—choose accommodations near this location and enjoy the region to the fullest without unnecessary travel.

Where to Eat in the Area

From traditional Tatra mountain huts to modern restaurants with mountain views—discover the local cuisine and plan where you’ll treat yourself to a well-deserved break with a good meal after your trip.

Discover other cities and towns in the region

Every town and village in the Tatra Mountains has its own history, character, and atmosphere—explore other destinations worth visiting.

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.