From Sokolica Peak to Trzy Korony Peak
Nearby: Szczawnica
beach_access Route in the shade
Trzy Korony and Sokolica are the two most famous peaks in the Pieniny Mountains. They can be conquered in one day, but it should be noted that the trail between them is quite challenging and adventurous. It provides an interesting change from the usual uphill climb for older hikers, but it can be dangerous for younger children. Caution is definitely required: the trail is exposed, with narrow paths that sometimes run close to cliffs (there are railings). There are some rocky sections to climb, offering scenic and interesting views. We advise against it for people with a fear of heights, as well as during rain, frost, and possible icy conditions.
Sokolica
This rocky peak proudly overlooks the Dunajec Gorge. The blue trail from Szczawnica on the other side of the Dunajec River leads to Sokolica (you have to cross the river on a raft). More information about the Sokolica trail can be found in the article below:
Medium
Sokolica - Trail from Szczawnica
Exposed trail from Sokolica
Along the trail, we pass three passes (Sosn贸w, Czertezik, Burzana) - so we will descend a bit and then climb uphill. Shortly after descending from Sokolica, we reach the first pass - Sosn贸w. It is between the Sosn贸w Pass and the Burzana Pass that the path is most demanding, resembling hiking in the Tatra Mountains - which is why Pieniny are called the "Little Tatras." However, the trail is well secured with railings and bridges to facilitate the ascent.
After passing the Sosn贸w Pass, we reach the rocky edge below the Czerte偶 summit - where we have beautiful views of the Dunajec Gorge and safety railings. In the picture below, we can see the majestic peak of Sokolica, which is already behind us.
This part of the trail is narrow and winds through the forest and along the edge of the rocks.
The trail to the Szopka Pass is a gentle, wide, and somewhat... boring ascent.
Szopka Pass
At the pass, there is a large meadow with a view of the Tatra Mountains, an ideal place to rest before the final ascent to the summit.
Strenuous climb to Trzy Korony
Here comes another challenging uphill section. We climb up forest steps and rocks until we reach the viewpoint terrace at Trzy Korony. Before entering the terrace, there is an entrance fee for the Pieniny National Park.
Trzy Korony
Trzy Korony is the most characteristic and popular peak in the Pieniny Mountains, with several pointed summits resembling a royal crown! According to legend, it is the crown of St. Kinga, who, while fleeing from the Tatars, threw her golden crown behind her - thus creating the Tatras and Pieniny. The highest summit of the "crown" is called Okr膮glica, at 982 meters above sea level, and it features a viewpoint terrace where we can admire the Tatras, Slovakia, and the meandering silver ribbon of the Dunajec River below.
PS. We have included this route in our article "Pieniny - Discover Their Most Beautiful Trails":
Pieniny Mountains - Discover Their Most Beautiful Trails!
Pieniny are mountains with rocky peaks, often called the 'Little Tatras.' However, the trails in the Pieniny Mountains are much easier, making them more suitable for family hikes. ...
Publish Date: 2022-05-01
More in the Region Pieniny (Pieniny)
Total Length 126 km
