Hlboké nad Váhom – Saddle under Hnilická Kýčera

At a glance

A route of 30.7 km with 1,305 m of ascent from Hlboké nad Váhom to Saddle under Hnilická Kýčera. Estimated walking time: about 10 h, not counting stops — a very long day, so it is easier split into 2 days. Difficulty: hard. Waymarking: green.

Route stages

1. 0–3 kmDescent of 370 m (down to 648 m)
2. 3–10 kmGentle ups and downs at 450–650 m
3. 10–17 kmClimb of 380 m to Žibrid (868 m)
4. 17–24 kmGentle ups and downs at 640–840 m, past Kečka
5. 24–28 kmDescent of 420 m (down to 324 m)
6. 28–31 kmClimb of 190 m (up to 511 m)

Steepest kilometre: km 17–18, a descent of 230 m (≈25%), near Žibrid.

Water and overnight stays

Springs near the trail: at km 0, 2, 4, 6, 15 and 26. There are no springs between km 15 and 26 — 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 16–31, ≈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: Hlboké nad Váhom. 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 0, 2, 4, 6, 15 and 26. There are no springs between km 15 and 26 — carry at least 2 l of water.