The Starý Smokovec Circuit
An Easy Circular Hike: Starý Smokovec – The Foothills of Slavkovský štít – Hrebienok
The highest point on the circuit (Slavkovská Lookout)
Total length of the entire circuit
Estimated duration of the hike at a leisurely pace
This pleasant hiking loop combines iconic views of the Podtatranská Basin with the popular resort at Hrebienok
This popular scenic loop is one of the most beautiful half-day hikes in the High Tatras, starting and ending in Starý Smokovec. The trail first ascends along the blue trail through the forest on the slope of Slavkovský Peak to the lookout points and the trail junction below Slavkovský Peak. The trail offers unique, unobstructed panoramic views of the entire Podtatranská Basin, Poprad, and the Low Tatras.
From the foot of the peak, the route follows the red-marked Tatra Main Trail along an easy traverse directly to Hrebienok. There, visitors will find a wide range of amenities, restaurants, and family-friendly attractions. The return to Starý Smokovec can be made on foot along the green trail or by riding the popular ground cable car.
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What do you need to know before you arrive?
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It is recommended to hike the loop starting from Starý Smokovec, first to the base of Slavkovský štít, and then descend via Hrebienok. The ascent at the beginning is gentler, and the second half of the route—from Hrebienok down—is less strenuous and easier on the legs.
If you're traveling with young children and want to make the hike easier, you can take a comfortable ride on the ground cable car from Hrebienok to Smokovec. In addition, at Hrebienok you'll find the Kvantarium interactive light exhibition and bear sculptures.
Starý Smokovec is the central transportation hub of the Tatra Mountains. The most convenient way to get there is by the Tatra tram from Poprad, Štrbské Pleso, or Tatranská Lomnica, which will save you the hassle of finding parking during the summer peak season.
A varied loop trail offering scenic views and a forest setting
The trail begins in the center of Starý Smokovec and follows a gentle ascent along the blue trail through the forest and later through a zone of sparse forest on the slopes of Slavkovský štít. Upon reaching the Slavkovská vyhliadka junction (or the junction below Slavkovský štít), the trail continues almost along the contour line on the red main trail, offering beautiful views of the Veľká Studená Valley all the way to Hrebienok.
The elevation gain along the trail is approximately 540 meters, but the ascent is gradual and the trail is well-maintained. The trail does not include any exposed sections, ladders, or chains. It is suitable for moderately experienced young hikers as well as adults hiking for recreation.
Route Markings
Blue Trail
Starý Smokovec – Crossroads below Slavkovský štít (1,550 m above sea level)
Red trail
: Junction below Slavkovský štít – Hrebienok (1,285 m above sea level)
Green Trail / Paved Road
Hrebienok–Starý Smokovec (or take the ground cable car)
Checkpoints along the route
Starý Smokovec (TEŽ station / cable cars) – 1,010 m above sea level
Five Springs – approx. 1,300 m above sea level
Slavkovská Lookout / Crossroads below Slavkovský Peak – 1,550 m above sea level
Hrebienok – 1,285 m above sea level
Starý Smokovec (return) – 1,010 m above sea level
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Didn't find what you're looking for? Explore other family-friendly trails, nature trails, and hidden natural gems in the High Tatras that you can easily enjoy even with the youngest children.
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Poprad
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Lomnický štít
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Starý Smokovec
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Solisko
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Everything You Need to Know Before Your Trip
Answers to the most frequently asked questions about the High Tatras region.
