The Siklawa waterfall, also known as Wielka Siklawa, is situated in the High Tatras on the Roztoka stream and is considered the largest waterfall in the Polish mountains. It cascades from the impressive threshold of the Stawiarska Wall, separating the Valley of the Five Polish Ponds from the Roztoka Valley, forming two, three, or sometimes even four streams, depending on the water level in the Wielki Staw. The waterfall's height ranges from 65 to 70 meters, and the wall's slope is about 35 degrees. All this has made it one of the region's key tourist attractions for over two centuries.
The highest in Poland, but not in the Tatras - how tall is Siklawa? Is the trail to Siklawa difficult, and how long does it take to reach the Siklawa waterfall?
Wondering how to get to Siklawa? To reach the waterfall, it's best to take the green tourist trail starting at Mickiewicz Waterfalls, located on the road from Palenica Białczańska to Morskie Oko. The walk takes about two hours, while the return trip on the same route takes about an hour and 40 minutes. This route allows you to enjoy the view of Siklawa without having to leave the path, which is essential for maintaining safety and protecting the natural terrain. During the hike, caution should be exercised, especially around the rocks surrounding the waterfall, which can be slippery and pose a risk of slipping. However, generally, the trail should not pose significant difficulties. After reaching your destination and taking a rest on the rocks at the foot of Siklawa, you can continue your walk by going around the waterfall from the left side and traversing the picturesque glacial boulders.
It's worth mentioning that although Siklawa is the highest waterfall in Poland, at 70 meters, it is not the highest in the entire Tatras - that title belongs to the Ciężka Siklawa, located at the threshold of the Ciężka Valley (100 meters high). Wielka Siklawa is 20 meters taller than Niagara Falls, which stands at 50 meters high.
The Siklawica waterfall is often mistaken by tourists for Wielka Siklawa. Where is Siklawica located?
Just a ten-minute walk from Polana Strążyska, you can find the beautiful Siklawica waterfall, which splits into two impressive cascades: the higher one at 13 meters and the lower one at 10 meters, separated by a rocky shelf. This picturesque cascade has been attracting travelers for a long time. At the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, there was even a pavilion for guests here. Siklawica was also favored by Pope John Paul II, who visited this place many times as a young man. Conversations with tourists near the waterfall reveal that they often confuse Siklawica with Wielka Siklawa.
