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Bystre Sedlo

Tatra National Park

The Tatras are something of a hidden gem, and this classic route is a good example of why they should be better known!

Ski Touring Difficult

Distance
8.6 km
Ascent
703 m
Descent
1.1 km
Duration
3-4 hrs
Low Point
1.4 km
High Point
2.3 km
Gradient
41˚
Bystre Sedlo Map

Starting from the small ski area of Strbské Pleso, at the western end of the Tatras, this is a wonderful mountain journey between 2 beautiful valleys.

Description

Begin by riding the lift system as high as it will take you. On the way up you can get a good look into the valley you'll end up skiing out of at the end of the day.

Hike due north towards Predné Solisko and shortly before arriving on the summit put your skis on and traverse across to the fun, steep-ish gully which leads you down to the Furkotstá Dolina (the valley up which you're about to skin). If you want a cruiser start to the day, you can simply ski north-west from the top of the chairlift directly into the valley. If you want an additional challenge, summit Predné Solisko and Strbské Solisko (which are separated by some exposed scrambling) and then ski down into the valley from the col between the 2 peaks.

Once in the valley skin due north, admiring the spectacular cliffs on your left as you go. As you near Bystre Sedlo col itself the terrain you're ascending gets increasingly steep and in all but the most friendly of conditions you'll need to bootpack the final section up to the col.

Once on the col itself soak in the ambience and enjoy the feeling of the uphill being done! From here on out it's downhill...

Ski east off the col down some terrain that feels quite steep and descend into Mlynická Dolina valley. Head south down this via some varied, fun and mellow terrain to the tree line. Initially the trees are quite sparse and you can pick your own route through them but as they get denser follow a jeep track back down to Strbské Pleso village.

Difficulty

Difficult

Serious gradient of 30-38 degrees where a real risk of slipping exists.

Medium Exposure (E2)

2 out of 4

As well as the slope itself, there are some obstacles (such as rock outcrops) which could aggravate injury.

Remoteness

3 out of 4

Little chance of being seen or helped in case of an accident.

Best time to visit

between January and April

Features

  • Bowl
  • Face

Equipment required

  • Skins

Guidebooks in this area