Western Tatras, TPN

Nosal Ridge via Olczyska

Distance5.4 km

Elevation gain290 m

DifficultyMedium

Estimated time1 h 34 min

Chains: NoTechnical: No

Overview

Nosal is a short, steep ridge outing from Kuźnice: stone stairs to Nosalowa Pass, exposed limestone shelves on the summit at 1,206 m with a frontal "Sleeping Knight" view of Giewont, then a relaxed forest drop through Olczyska Polana toward Jaszczurówka.

The crux is slick limestone on the ridge after rain or frost—serious shoes and care matter despite the modest elevation. Kuźnice is a no-car zone; buses or taxis from town are part of the plan.

Excellent when you want drama and town-and-peak perspectives in a smaller time box. Add Kopieniec via variant 7.1 for a longer two-summit day.

Points of interest

Przełęcz Nosalowa — The first viewpoint overlooking the town and lower ridges.
Nosal Summit (1206 m) — Dramatic rocky platforms with an elite frontal view of the "Sleeping Knight" (Giewont).
Olczyska Polana — A large, peaceful forest clearing passing historic wooden huts.
Witkiewicz Chapel — A unique architectural POI in Jaszczurówka at the end of the trail.
Wielki Kopieniec — Add-on to the 360-degree panoramic peak (+2:00 h).

Trail alerts

Slippery Terrain: The limestone plates on the Nosal ridge can be extremely slick after rain or when covered in morning frost.
No Cars in Kuźnice: The trailhead is a no-car zone. Use public buses or taxis from Zakopane center.

Trail character

Surface: Steep natural stone stairs on the ascent; uneven rocky terrain on the ridge; easy forest path on the descent.
Accessibility: Not suitable for strollers due to the steep, rocky ridge.

Access & rules

Logistics: Start at Kuźnice, finish at Jaszczurówka. Use public buses for the point-to-point connection.
Official Info: Tatrzański Park Narodowy (TPN) - Current trail status, weather alerts, and online tickets.
National Park Rules: Strictly no dogs (except Chochołowska valley floor and Droga pod Reglami). No swimming in lakes. Admission fee applies.
Sunset Rule: From March 1 to November 30, all TPN trails are closed from dusk to dawn to protect wildlife and for safety. Plan your return before sunset.

Browse all ready-made routes