Chochołowska Valley — Local services in gmina Kościelisko

The trick is to go very early in the morning so that you can avoid the crowds. Choose a weekday in mid to late April. We actually went in a tour group on the Saturday 14th....this year that was a day or two too soon. The main area was still covered in snow. However on the way back down the 7.5 k hike which is for the most part pretty gentle at about noon , the crowds going up were amazing. Particularly astounded by people trying ( in vain) to cycle up on bike through ice, snow and crowds. Cyclists all looked miserable as they pushed their bikes uphill. On their return downhill, they had to creep down and avoid hitting all the pedestrians, strollers and horse carriages ( which are absurd and expensive unless of course you physically cannot walk then it is the best solution).. (I think it costs 300.00 złoty for a one way trip). Dress for a hike and anticipate that the snow could be melting. Pools of sludge and streams of muddy water on the stony trail and frustrated parents attempting to push or in desperation even drag strollers. Don't take strollers, a lot of folk just gave up and turned back. Tourists from Dubai with Louis Vuitton backpacks and glittery sneakers looked utterly miserable. We actually had a competition picking out the most inappropriate outfits and the most impractical strollers, shoes etc. Take an energy bar or two and pack a sandwich a banana and small container of water. The food at the inn at the top is certainly not worth the silly prices and the ridiculously long wait. Beer prices are the same as at the airport or luxury...

Very disappointing experience at Chochołowska Valley.

There were way too many people. Long lines just to get in. There are two separate queues — one for buying tickets with cash, and another to show that you bought your ticket online — but this is never explained anywhere. We only found out by asking other visitors standing in line. There’s absolutely no clear information: not on the internet, not on signs at the entrance, and not even at the ticket booth.

The staff were unhelpful and visibly annoyed when asked simple questions about how to buy a ticket. We started our hike in a terrible mood and honestly, it ruined the whole experience.

If you’re planning to visit, do your research beforehand, or you’ll waste time, energy, and your mood.

Another major issue is the overcrowding. There are just too many people. The best solution would be to significantly raise the ticket prices — fewer people would come, and those who do would have a much better experience.

The only positive thing I can say is that the nature itself is beautiful, and the trail isn’t too difficult. But sadly, everything else...

Chochołowska Valley is one of the most popular destinations in the Polish Tatras, especially for those planning hikes to Grześ, Rakoń, Wołowiec or Trzydniowiański Wierch. The valley is long (about 8 km) and scenic, but the main route to the mountain hut follows a wide, mostly paved or gravel road, which lacks the charm of wilder mountain trails. However, the views from the upper trails and the open space around the hut definitely make up for the monotonous approach.

That’s why biking to the hut is a great idea – especially since the ride back after a long hike is almost entirely downhill, saving both time and energy.

Practical tip: To enter the Chochołowska Valley by bike, you need a separate cycling ticket (different from the general Tatra National Park entry ticket). Unfortunately, it can't be purchased online and must be bought at the ticket booth – which often means waiting in line. It's best to arrive early in the morning before the...