For things to do in Tatra National Park, Chochołowska Valley offers a walk through the Western Tatras near Zakopane. The route begins at Siwa Polana, where you can set out through the valley toward Chochołowska Meadow.
- Location: Western Tatras, near Zakopane.
- Route start: Siwa Polana.
- Public transport: Numerous minibuses run from Zakopane to Siwa Polana.
- Entry: An entry fee is charged; check current details before your visit.
Where the Chochołowska Valley route begins
The Chochołowska Valley route starts at Siwa Polana, at the edge of the valley. The trail passes the outlet of Lejowa Valley before continuing past Leśniczówka Chochołowska, the former Blaszyńscy shelter, and the outlet of Starobociańska Valley.
At junctions along the way, a yellow trail leads toward Iwaniacka Pass and Kościeliska Valley, while a black trail heads toward the Ornak massif. These branches connect the valley walk with other Tatra routes.
Spring crocuses are a feature of the valley’s meadows, according to Zakopane’s official visitor guide. The PTTK shelter on Chochołowska Meadow stands at 1,146–1,148 m above sea level.
How do you get from Zakopane to Chochołowska Valley?
PTTK describes numerous minibus services from Zakopane to Siwa Polana. The Zakopane municipal bus-station timetable includes services to “CHOCHOŁOWSKA - SIWA POLANA” via Czajki, Wojdyłówka, Rysulówka and Kiry Stadnina.
Services and departure times can change, so check the Zakopane municipal bus-station’s official site before you go. From Willa 14, Chochołowska Valley is about 18 km away.
For details on getting around town, the Zakopane station and local transport guide covers the station and local connections.
Trail landmarks, facilities and park rules
The walk follows the valley from Siwa Polana toward Chochołowska Meadow, passing side-valley outlets, a former shelter and trail junctions along the route. The shelter on the meadow stands at 1,146–1,148 m above sea level.
The valley beyond Siwa Polana is closed to motorized vehicle traffic. An entry fee is charged for Chochołowska Valley. The exact amount can change, so check current ticket information before setting out.
For a broader look at planning a visit to Tatra National Park from Zakopane, consider how the valley walk fits with the rest of your trip.
FAQs
Where does the Chochołowska Valley walk start?
The route begins at Siwa Polana, at the edge of the valley.
Can you reach Siwa Polana by public transport?
Yes. Numerous minibuses run from Zakopane to Siwa Polana, and the municipal bus-station timetable includes services to the trailhead.
Is there an entry fee for Chochołowska Valley?
Yes, an entry fee is charged. Check current ticket information before you go.
Can vehicles drive into the valley?
The valley beyond Siwa Polana is closed to motorized vehicle traffic.