Ponická Huta – Hronec

At a glance

A route of 35.7 km with 1,143 m of ascent from Ponická Huta to Hronec. Estimated walking time: about 11 h, not counting stops — a very long day, so it is easier split into 2 days. Difficulty: hard. Waymarking: blue.

Route stages

1. 0–3 kmClimb of 330 m to Hájny grúň (832 m)
2. 3–13 kmGentle ups and downs at 720–930 m, past Štomp
3. 13–18 kmClimb of 370 m (up to 1,094 m)
4. 18–25 kmGentle ups and downs at 1,080–1,240 m
5. 25–31 kmDescent of 600 m (down to 633 m)
6. 31–36 kmGentle ups and downs at 480–640 m

Steepest kilometre: km 1–2, a climb of 170 m (≈17%).

Water and overnight stays

Springs near the trail: at km 0, 2, 10, 11, 21, 22, 25 and 34. There are no springs between km 11 and 21 — carry at least 2 l of water.

Huts and shelters near the trail: Hut below Kraklová (km 6), Jasenová Hut (km 20), Horalka (km 25).

A possible split into days:

1. Day 1: km 0–20, ≈6.5 h — overnight: Jasenová Hut (hut)
2. Day 2: km 20–36, ≈4.5 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: Ponická Huta. This is a one-way route: the finish is 24 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 11 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 0, 2, 10, 11, 21, 22, 25 and 34. There are no springs between km 11 and 21 — carry at least 2 l of water.

Where can I stay overnight?

Huts and shelters near the trail: Hut below Kraklová (km 6), Jasenová Hut (km 20), Horalka (km 25). Possible overnight stops: Jasenová Hut (km 20).