Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
05/29/2018
The hike begins on a moderate, gradual incline through some dense, lush forest just outside Ždiar.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
05/29/2018
Shortly after you begin, the hike takes a sudden turn for the steep as you ascend into the rocky, but still-lush peaks of the White (Belianske) Tatras juts before crossing into the High Tatras.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
05/29/2018
Stopping for a rest on the steep climb is much more pleasant when the fog clears!
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
05/29/2018
The steepest part of the trail comes equipped with aid chains to assist in getting up. Be careful of the rock here as it can be extremely slippery from rain or even morning dew.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
05/29/2018
Be on the lookout for trail markers painted on rocks and other natural landmarks. In this case, the markers are noting that this particular section of trail lies along both green trail #5900 and red trail #0930A.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
05/29/2018
A passing hiker plodding steadily up the steep climb into Siroké Sedlo, surrounded by fog and wildflowers.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
05/29/2018
In a momentary lapse in the fog, the tiny but beautiful village of Ždiar, all one street of it, makes an appearance far below.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
05/29/2018
Clear signage makes navigating through the Tatras a breeze!
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
05/29/2018
Moving onward from Siroké Sedlo to Vysné Kopske, one of the highest points on the hike, before beginning to descend downward onto the other side of the ridge.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
05/29/2018
Standing in the saddle just below the Vysné Kopske (1,934 m) summit. It's a short detour from the marked path to summit this craggy peak.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
05/29/2018
Respectfully distant encounters with a chamois, one of only about 720 remaining in the Tatras. The Tatras are also known for peregrine falcon watching.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
05/29/2018
Throughout the summer, both the Belianske and High Tatras are bursting with color from all manner of wildflowers. It feels a bit like a fairy tale to hike through the endless fields of them.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
05/29/2018
Descending down from Vysne Kopske sedlo toward the peaceful and shallow lake, Vel'ké Biele Pleso.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
05/29/2018
The silhouetted peak of Jastrabia Veža (2,137 m) barely peeking out of the clouds.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
05/29/2018
Chati pri Zelenom plese: The picturesque lodge and cafe located on the shores of Zelené Pleso.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
05/29/2018
To shorten the hike, follow the stream Zeleny Potok along a flat, wide path all the way back to the road.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
05/29/2018
Slovakia can be quite hot in the summer, especially after hiking hard all day. Zeleny Potok is a great place to cool off and refill your water supply, especially if hiking onward on Trail 0930A to Skalnate Pleso.