Heľpa, station – Východná

At a glance

A route of 32.4 km with 1,179 m of ascent from Heľpa, station to Východná. Estimated walking time: about 10 h, not counting stops — a very long day, so it is easier split into 2 days. Difficulty: hard. Waymarking: blue.

Route stages

1. 0–4 kmClimb of 320 m to Muránsko
2. 4–7 kmDescent of 330 m (down to 737 m)
3. 7–15 kmGentle ups and downs at 730–880 m
4. 15–24 kmClimb of 680 m to Priehybka Pass
5. 24–29 kmDescent of 810 m (down to 742 m)
6. 29–32 kmGentle ups and downs at 630–750 m

Steepest kilometre: km 21–22, a climb of 200 m (≈20%).

Water and overnight stays

Springs near the trail: at km 6, 7, 10, 15, 25, 27 and 30. There are no springs between km 15 and 25 — carry at least 2 l of water.

A possible split into days:

1. Day 1: km 0–16, ≈5 h — overnight: no shelter nearby on the map, bring a tent
2. Day 2: km 16–32, ≈5 h — finish

When to go

Best time: May to October. In winter deep snow is possible, so experience and winter gear are needed.

Getting there

Start: Heľpa, station. This is a one-way route: the finish is 22 km from the start in a straight line, so plan your way back in advance.

Directions to the start in Google Maps

FAQ

How long does the route take?

Estimated walking time: about 10 h, not counting stops — a very long day, so it is easier split into 2 days.

Is there water on the route?

Springs near the trail: at km 6, 7, 10, 15, 25, 27 and 30. There are no springs between km 15 and 25 — carry at least 2 l of water.