Považská Bystrica – Malý Javorník

At a glance

A route of 31.7 km with 774 m of ascent and 1,510 m of descent from Malý Javorník to Považská Bystrica. Estimated walking time: about 9 h, not counting stops — a very long day, so it is easier split into 2 days. Difficulty: hard. Waymarking: blue.

Route stages

1. 0–9 kmGentle ups and downs at 820–1,010 m, past Malý Javorník, Adamkov, Orgoňova Kýčera
2. 9–15 kmDescent of 370 m (down to 572 m)
3. 15–23 kmGentle ups and downs at 400–650 m, past Bukovina Pass
4. 23–26 kmClimb of 150 m (up to 556 m)
5. 26–32 kmDescent of 270 m to Považská Bystrica

Steepest kilometre: km 10–11, a descent of 160 m (≈16%).

Water and overnight stays

Springs near the trail: at km 1, 4, 5, 9, 10, 14, 15, 17, 21 and 27. Some springs run low or dry up in late summer.

Huts and shelters near the trail: Hviezda Hut (km 21).

A possible split into days:

1. Day 1: km 0–16, ≈4.5 h — overnight: no shelter nearby on the map, bring a tent
2. Day 2: km 16–32, ≈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: Malý Javorník. This is a one-way route: the finish is 23 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 9 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 1, 4, 5, 9, 10, 14, 15, 17, 21 and 27. Some springs run low or dry up in late summer.

Where can I stay overnight?

Huts and shelters near the trail: Hviezda Hut (km 21).