Hiking with a dog is permitted only on designated trails
Hiking with a Dog
Hiking the Tatra Trails with a Four-Legged Companion
You can explore the High Tatras with your four-legged friend. However, there are clear rules for hiking with dogs within the TANAP area.
Hiking together offers plenty of experiences, exercise, and time spent in nature. In the region, you’ll find pleasant forest trails, paved paths, and routes leading to popular Tatra destinations that you can explore with your dog.
However, not every hiking trail allows pets. Restrictions mainly apply to high-altitude areas and locations where chamois, marmots, large carnivores, and other rare animals are found. Therefore, before every hike, check whether the selected route is open to dogs.
Always keep your dog under control during a hike
Don't forget to bring plenty of water and a collapsible bowl
Do not allow your dog to disturb or chase wild animals
What do you need to know before you arrive?
Before you leave, check to see if dogs are allowed on your chosen route
Keep your dog under control and on a leash throughout the entire hike
Bring enough water for yourself and your dog
Pack a collapsible bowl, dog food, and a basic first-aid kit for dogs
Don't forget the bags, and be sure to pick up all the waste
Do not let your dog chase or disturb wildlife
Check the weather, temperature, and the difficulty of the trail surface
Remember to protect your dog's paws, use a tick comb, and attach an ID tag
Please read this before your visit
Permitted Trails and TANAP Rules
Dogs are not allowed on all hiking trails. Restrictions apply primarily in high-altitude areas and in sensitive locations where protected wildlife is present. Before your hike, check the current map of trails accessible with a pet.
Weather and Conditions Along the Route
Hot weather, scorching asphalt, snow, or rocky terrain can be challenging for a dog. Adjust the length and elevation gain of the route to suit your dog’s fitness level, age, and health.
Respect for Nature and Tourists
Keep your dog under control during your hike, prevent it from coming into contact with wildlife, and be considerate of other visitors. Don’t forget to clean up after your dog and take all trash with you when you leave.
Tak to u nás vyzerá. Pozrite sa
More Tips for Hiking with Your Dog
Didn't find what you're looking for? Explore other permitted trails and natural hideaways in the High Tatras that you can discover together with your four-legged companion.
Must-See Places. Discover them one by one
Every corner of the Tatra Mountains has its own story. Discover the places that shape the character of the region.
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
Poprad
6°C
Mostly clear
Lomnický štít
-4°C
Overcast
Tatranská Lomnica
4°C
Overcast
Starý Smokovec
3°C
Overcast
Hrebienok
2°C
Overcast
Štrbské Pleso
3°C
Clear
Skalnaté pleso
1°C
Overcast
Solisko
-1°C
Clear
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.
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.
