The Valley of Five Polish Ponds - Where is it Located?
The Valley of Five Polish Ponds is a stunning place that should be on the list of locations to visit for those who enjoy hiking. Initially, this place was called Pięciostawy, but later, as mountain tourism became more popular, the name was changed to the Valley of Five Ponds. The word "Polish" was added to distinguish it from the one on the Slovak side (The Valley of Five Spiskie Ponds). The valley in question is located within the Tatra National Park in the High Tatras.
The lakes there are named: Wielki Staw Polski, Zadni Staw Polski, Czarny Staw Polski, Mały Staw Polski, and Przedni Staw Polski. The smallest of them is Wole Oko, which is a temporary lake.
PTTK Shelter in the Valley of Five Polish Ponds
The valley is extremely popular among tourists and is one of the best-known places of its kind in Poland. It is worth knowing that the PTTK shelter in the Valley of Five Polish Ponds is located by Przedni Staw. It serves as a rest stop for weary hikers and also offers accommodation. However, securing a spot to sleep there is not easy, as reservations need to be made more than half a year in advance due to high demand.
Shelter in the Valley of Five Polish Ponds - Trails and Food
Does the Shelter in the Valley of Five Polish Ponds have a kitchen? Yes - if you stop there, you can take advantage of the meals provided. The shelter in the Valley of Five Polish Ponds is also an ideal base for reaching some mountain trails. Here are some of the trails you can explore:
- Szpiglasowy Wierch
- Hala Gąsienicowa via Przełęcz Krzyżne
- Hala Gąsienicowa via Przełęcz Zawrat
- Hala Gąsienicowa via Kozia Przełęcz
- Kozi Wierch
The Valley of Five Ponds - Weather. Is it Accessible?
Mountains are places where you should expect the unexpected and never underestimate them. This is especially true in winter, and not only on the trail leading to the Valley of Five Ponds. The weather can be unpredictable, although forecasts are usually accurate. However, in the mountains, rain, storms, snow, and wind are much more intense and can have more severe consequences. Therefore, before setting off on a hike, it's essential to check the weather forecast and have the appropriate gear with you, depending on the season, such as a raincoat, crampons, gaiters, and trekking shoes.
The Valley of Five Ponds - Trail. Which One to Choose?
When going to the mountains, always consider your own fitness and abilities. Do not overestimate yourself and be aware of the unpredictable mountain conditions. Even a trail that leads to an undoubtedly beautiful place like the Valley of Five Ponds should not be taken lightly. The trail you ultimately choose should be well-known and tested. The most popular route is the one from Palenica Białczańska through the Valley of Roztoka. The length of the trail is 9 km.
The Valley of Five Ponds - How Long Does It Take to Walk from the Parking Lot?
How long does it take to walk from the parking lot in Palenica Białczańska to the Valley of Five Polish Ponds? Of course, these are estimated values, and much depends on your physical condition. The entire trail includes several viewpoints. It leads through Wodogrzmoty Mickiewicza, then through the Valley of Roztoka and Siklawa, and finally reaches the shelter. Walking directly from the parking lot, the estimated walking time is about two hours and ten minutes.
How to Get to the Valley of Five Ponds?
In general, the trail is straightforward and very well marked. Setting off from the parking lot, especially during the season, you will be accompanied by many tourists, most of whom will be heading in the same direction. It's important to consider your own fitness level and avoid taking children with strollers. Part of the trail that leads over rocks can be bypassed by following the black trail.
