Pusté Pole – Vaniškovce

At a glance

A route of 36.1 km with 1,113 m of ascent from Pusté Pole to Vaniškovce. 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. 0–7 kmClimb of 560 m to Minčol (1,153 m)
2. 7–16 kmGentle ups and downs at 830–1,150 m, past Hýrová
3. 16–18 kmClimb of 160 m to Hrašovík (1,009 m)
4. 18–28 kmGentle ups and downs at 900–1,100 m, past Solisko, Veľká Javorina, Čergov Hut
5. 28–32 kmDescent of 480 m (down to 426 m)
6. 32–36 kmGentle ups and downs at 320–430 m

Steepest kilometre: km 17–18, a climb of 180 m (≈18%), near Hrašovík.

Water and overnight stays

Springs near the trail: at km 6, 7, 8, 16, 20, 26, 27 and 33. Some springs run low or dry up in late summer.

Huts and shelters near the trail: Hut under Minčol (km 8), Drina Hut (km 26), Čergov Hut (km 27).

A possible split into days:

1. Day 1: km 0–17, ≈5.5 h — overnight: no shelter nearby on the map, bring a tent
2. Day 2: km 17–36, ≈5.5 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: Pusté Pole. This is a one-way route: the finish is 28 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 6, 7, 8, 16, 20, 26, 27 and 33. Some springs run low or dry up in late summer.

Where can I stay overnight?

Huts and shelters near the trail: Hut under Minčol (km 8), Drina Hut (km 26), Čergov Hut (km 27).