Uphill Run in Honor of the Ján Still Memorial

Nová Lesná – Dolný Smokovec – Horný Smokovec – Starý Smokovec – Hrebienok

Ján Stilla Memorial Run
Nová Lesná
9.37 km

A continuous climb from the foothills to Hrebienok

533 m

Elevation difference between the start and the finish

Asphalt

A surface that is technically easy but physically demanding

From a village at the foot of the Tatra Mountains to the tourist center above Smokovce

The running course connects the center of Nová Lesná with Hrebienok and follows the route of the traditional Ján Still Memorial. Over the course of 9.37 kilometers, it climbs almost continuously—from the streets of Nová Lesná through Dolný, Horný, and Starý Smokovec, all the way to the final ascent along a forest road to Hrebienok.

The course is technically simple but requires good endurance and proper pacing. The most challenging part is the final, nearly three-kilometer climb from Starý Smokovec to Hrebienok. The route is marked with yellow signs, and for individual runners, it ends at the ramp near the Hrebienok Mountain Hotel.

Trail Difficulty: Moderate
Start of the trail: Nová Lesná
End of the trail: Hrebienok
Markings: Yellow markers
What can you experience and see along the route?
Mountain Guide Park in Nová Lesná
The Tatra villages of Dolný and Horný Smokovec
Starý Smokovec
Comb

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What do you need to know before you arrive?
The route climbs almost continuously
At the start, set a pace that you can maintain throughout the entire run
The entire surface of the track is paved with asphalt
Choose road running shoes with adequate cushioning
Be sure to bring plenty of water and energy snacks
In winter, expect snow, ice, and slippery surfaces

Please read this before your visit

Continuous climb

The route begins at an elevation of approximately 747 meters above sea level and ends at Hrebienok at an elevation of 1,280 meters above sea level. Although it does not feature technically challenging mountain terrain, its nearly continuous elevation gain will test both your endurance and your ability to conserve energy.

Road Surface and Traffic

The entire route runs along paved streets, sidewalks, and an access road. Outside of organized races, these roads are not automatically closed to traffic; therefore, please follow traffic rules, use the sidewalks, and make sure you are visible.

The one-way nature of the track

The run ends at Hrebienok and does not return to the starting point. Before the start, therefore, plan your descent to Starý Smokovec and subsequent return to Nová Lesná, or be prepared to follow the same route back.

A nine-kilometer climb from the foothills to Hrebienok

The starting point in Nová Lesná is located at an elevation of approximately 747 meters above sea level, and the finish line at Hrebienok is at an elevation of 1,280 meters above sea level. The direct elevation difference is thus 533 meters.

A separate map of the “Tatry in Motion” trail lists the lowest point as 740 meters above sea level, the highest point as 1,265 meters above sea level, and a total elevation gain of 574 meters.

Course Route

You’ll start the run in the center of Nová Lesná, near the Mountain Guides Park. The first kilometer takes you through the village streets, where you’ll join the road leading to Dolný Smokovec.

At the roundabout, take the first exit up the hill toward Horný Smokovec. The current route for the Ján Still Memorial runs through Pod lesom, Dolný Smokovec, Horný Smokovec, Pekná vyhliadka, and Starý Smokovec.

In Horný Smokovec, join the trail that runs alongside Cesta slobody. Then turn right and take the steps next to the Tatrašport Žampa Guesthouse to reach the paved access road.

Passing by Koliba Kamzík, continue along the forest trail leading to Hrebienok. The final stretch is an ascent of just under three kilometers, ending at the ramp near the Hrebienok Mountain Hotel.

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.