Skiing in Starý Smokovec

The perfect place to take your first turns on skis

Smokovec_Ski_School
Starý Smokovec
Jakub's Meadow

Easy Trails for Beginners

2.5 km

The Sledding Trail from Hrebienok

Ski School

Lessons for Children and Adults

Starý Smokovec offers ideal conditions for families and beginner skiers

Thanks to its gentle slopes, Jakubkova lúka is particularly well-suited for complete beginners and families with children. Professional instructors from the ski school will help visitors master their first turns and prepare for more challenging runs. While skiing, you can also enjoy views of Slavkovský štít.

After a day on the slopes, the 2.5-kilometer-long toboggan run from Hrebienok—which is also open in the evening—is a great attraction. Starý Smokovec is also an excellent starting point for winter hikes to high-mountain huts and waterfalls. During the winter, Hrebienok transforms into a center for ice art with the Tatry Ice Master event and the popular Tatra Ice Dome.

Discounted Local Ski Passes
Sledding by Day and Night
Winter Adventures at Hrebienok
What We Offer
Ski Slopes for Beginners
Ski School
Nighttime Sledding
Tatra Ice Dome

Enjoy skiing in the Tatra Mountains

The Tatra ski resorts offer groomed slopes for beginners, families with children, and experienced skiers alike. Enjoy the winter atmosphere, the snow-covered landscape, and skiing with stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

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.