Kriváň (2,495 m) is to Slovaks what Triglav is to Slovenes: the national mountain. Its bent summit was climbed by the poets and patriots of Ľudovít Štúr’s generation in 1841, an anniversary still marked by a national ascent every August, and it appears on the Slovak 1, 2 and 5 cent coins.
It stands apart at the western end of the High Tatras, so the view is immense — and so is the climb. There are no chains or ladders, just a great deal of uphill and some easy scrambling near the top.
What to see and do: Kriváň
From Štrbské Pleso via Jamské pleso
Follow the red Tatranská magistrála west for about 1¼ hours to the small Jamské pleso, then the blue trail up the long south-east ridge to the summit. About 4 hours up, 1,150 m of ascent, and 7–8 hours for the round trip.
From Tri studničky
The green trail from the forester’s lodge at Tri studničky (about 1,140 m) is shorter in distance but steeper and has more climbing — roughly 1,350 m. It joins the blue route below the summit. Allow about 3¾–4 hours up.
A traverse
The most satisfying day goes up one route and down the other, using the summer bus or a taxi between Tri studničky and Štrbské Pleso (about 6 km by road).
On the summit
A double cross marks the top. The panorama runs from the Western Tatras and the Liptov basin to Gerlach, with the Kôprová valley dropping away at your feet.
How to get to Kriváň
- The red trail leaves the western end of the lake near the ski stadium.
- Tri studničky has a paid car park on the Štrbské Pleso–Podbanské road and a seasonal bus stop.
- Carry all your water: there is no hut on the mountain and streams are unreliable higher up.
Insider tips
- Closed from 1 November to mid-June like all high trails. Avoid the Saturday of the national ascent in August unless you enjoy crowds.
- The summit ridge is exposed to lightning; an early start is essential in summer.
- The final section crosses large boulders — tiring on the descent, so keep time in reserve.
- Chamois are often seen on the upper slopes. Keep your distance and keep dogs on a lead.
Tours that fit: Kriváň
These GetYourGuide experiences pair well with Kriváň:
Guided wildlife hike from €240 High Tatras: Bear-Watching Hiking Tour
The one experience here that is a real mountain day rather than a sightseeing drive: a guided hike into bear country with someone who knows where the animals feed. Sightings can never be guaranteed, but the tracking, the valleys and the guide’s knowledge make the day.
- Hike with a local wildlife guide
- Look for brown bears, chamois and marmots
- Small group, quiet valleys
Small-group day trip from €148 Bratislava: Demänovská Cave, High Tatras & Orava Castle Tour
A small-group alternative with a perfect score across more than fifty reviews. The route swaps Bojnice for a show cave in the Demänovská valley, adds Orava Castle and the High Tatras, and the listing states that all entrance fees and photographs are included.
- A Demänovská cave in the Low Tatras
- Orava Castle, filming location of Nosferatu
- Entrance fees included, per the listing
