Overview
This version layers a real summit onto the easy meadow approach. You still reach Rusinowa Polana as the social heart of the day, then climb Gęsia Szyja (1,489 m) for a full 360° panorama over Polish and Slovak peaks.
The ascent is dominated by long wooden and stone stair flights—hard on knees and calves, especially when wet or icy. Micro-spikes are often sensible outside high summer; strollers must stop at the meadow.
The descent route via Wiktorówki adds a quiet forest sanctuary and memorial atmosphere, rounding out the hike beyond pure viewpoints. Budget extra time and expect this to feel like a proper workout, not an extension stroll.