Start our Tatra adventure with trails that are ideal for families with children and those just beginning their mountain adventure.

1. the Caterpillar Valley Address: Blue hiking trail, Zakopane, Poland. How to get there: From the center of Zakopane, head towards Kuznice, from where the trail begins.

Gąsienicowa Valley is one of the most beautiful places in the Tatra Mountains, offering a variety of landscapes and levels of difficulty. The route is open to tourists all year round, but it is best to visit from late spring to early autumn.

For families with children, we recommend the route to the Murowaniec hut, which takes about 2-3 hours one way. The trail is well marked and maintained, making it safe for younger tourists. Along the way you can admire the blooming mountain pastures and picturesque ponds.

Remember to wear appropriate mountain footwear, even on the easier sections. It's a good idea to take warm clothes with you, as the weather in the mountains can change quickly. For children, prepare lightweight backpacks with snacks and water.

2 White Water Valley Address: 059 56 Jaworzyna Tatrzanska, Slovakia How to get there: From the parking lot at Lysá Polana, head on the trail towards the White Water Valley.

This picturesque valley, located right on the Polish-Slovakian border, offers a gentle trail ideal for families with children. The trail is accessible all year round, but looks most beautiful from May to October.

The trail runs along the White Water stream, which adds to the charm of the hike. A surprise awaits you at the end of the valley - a camping spot with platforms for setting up tents, toilets and a shelter. This is an ideal place to relax and have a picnic.

The entire round trip route takes about 6-7 hours at a leisurely pace. Remember to take enough water and provisions. The trail is technically easy, but requires good fitness due to its length.

3. rope park Golden Ridge Address: Gubałówka 231b, 34-500 Zakopane, Poland. How to get there: From the center of Zakopane head to Gubałówka, the park is located near the upper station of the cable car.

For those who are looking for an adrenaline rush, but not necessarily on high mountain trails, the Zlota Grań Rope Park is a great alternative. The park offers trails of varying levels of difficulty, suited to age and ability.

The park is open from spring to autumn, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (it's worth checking the current hours before visiting). Ticket prices start from $30 for children to $60 for an unlimited time package.

Before entering the route, each participant receives safety training. There are special safe routes for the youngest (ages 3 and up). Older children and adults can choose from routes of varying difficulty, including exciting Tyrolean descents.

Remember to wear comfortable, athletic attire and full footwear. The park provides belay equipment, but your own gloves may come in handy.

Nearby food outlets and other Gubalowka attractions allow you to plan a full day of excitement for the whole family.

For those looking for a bigger challenge, the Tatra Mountains offer routes that will test your fitness and climbing skills.

4. trail to Zawrat Address: Blue hiking trail, Zakopane, Poland. How to get there: It is best to start the route from the Murowaniec hut in the Caterpillar Valley.

The trail to Zawrat is one of the most demanding routes in the Polish Tatra Mountains. The pass is located at 2159 meters above sea level and offers spectacular views on both sides of the ridge.

The route is accessible from late spring to early autumn, but always check current conditions before setting off. The entire trip takes about 6-8 hours round trip, depending on fitness and conditions.

The trail requires good physical and mental preparation. There are steep climbs and exposed sections secured by chains along the route. It is not recommended for people with a fear of heights or without experience in high mountains.

Necessary equipment includes:

• Sturdy trekking shoes with a high upper
• Helmet (recommended due to the possibility of falling stones)
• Warm and waterproof clothing (the weather can change quickly)
• A supply of water and high-energy food
• Flashlight (preferably a headlamp)
• A charged phone with emergency numbers

5 Pod Chłopkiem Pass Address: Green hiking trail, Vysoké Tatry, Poland. How to get there: The route starts from the Black Caterpillar Pond.

Pod Chłopkiem Pass is another challenging route for experienced hikers. The trail leads through picturesque terrain, offering unforgettable views of the High Tatras.

The route is available during the summer season, usually from June to September, but always check current conditions. The entire trip takes about 5-6 hours round trip.

The trail is characterized by steep climbs and exposed areas. There are sections on the route protected by chains, which require concentration and a steady hand. It is not recommended for people with a fear of heights or without adequate experience.

Remember to prepare properly:

• Sturdy mountain boots
• Trekking poles (can be helpful on steep sections)
• Warm and waterproof clothing
• A supply of water and food
• First aid kit
• Map and compass (in addition to an app on your phone)

6 Mlynická Valley Address: yellow, 059 85 Vysoké Tatry, Slovakia How to get there: The best starting point is Štrbské Pleso on the Slovak side of the Tatras.

The Mlynická Valley is for those who want to combine beautiful views with a challenge. The route takes you through the picturesque valley all the way to the Bystra Ławka pass (2,300 meters above sea level).

The trail is accessible from late spring to early autumn. The entire trip can take up to 8-10 hours, so be sure to set out early in the morning.

The route becomes challenging in the upper part, with exposed sections and chains. However, the views of the surrounding peaks and valleys are worth the effort. Along the way you pass the beautiful Skok waterfall, which is an additional attraction.

Necessary equipment:

• Mountain boots with good traction
• Helmet (recommended on the upper parts of the trail)
• Warm and waterproof clothing (including gloves and a hat)
• A large supply of water and food
• Flashlight (headlamp) - late return possible
• Phone with a charged battery and emergency numbers

Remember that all these routes require good preparation and a responsible approach. Always check weather forecasts and current trail conditions before setting out. If in doubt, it's a good idea to consult local guides or TOPR/HZS personnel.

For those who prefer quieter hikes and want to enjoy the beauty of Tatra nature, we have two suggestions for scenic valleys.

7. ley valley Address: Yellow hiking trail, Zakopane, Poland. How to get there: The entrance to the trail is located on the road to Koscieliska, about 500 meters behind the main entrance to Koscieliska Valley.

Lejowa Valley is a lesser-known, but equally charming alternative to crowded trails. It is an ideal place for families with children and those looking for a quiet hike surrounded by nature.

The trail is accessible all year round, but looks most beautiful from late spring to early fall. The trail is technically easy and takes about 2-3 hours one way.

Along the way you pass picturesque glades - Jaworzyna Lejowa and Huty Lejowe. The valley offers plenty of shade, which is especially valuable on hot days. It is worth remembering that in the lower parts of the valley the trail can be muddy, especially after rains.

What to know:

• There is a paid parking lot at the entrance (PLN 20 per day, as of 2023).
• There is no shelter in the valley, it is advisable to bring your own provisions and water
• The trail is marked in yellow
• The route is child-friendly, but beware of slippery stones when crossing streams

8. valley towards the hole Address: 34-500 Zakopane, Poland How to get there: The entrance to the valley is located in Zakopane, in the Ku Dziura district, near the Wielka Krokiew ski jump.

The Ku Dziura Valley is the smallest Tatra valley, ideal for a short family walk. The main attraction is the cave at the end of the valley, accessed by metal stairs.

The route is accessible all year round and takes about 30-40 minutes one way. It is an ideal choice for families with young children or people who want to start their adventure with mountain hiking.

Along the way, you pass a picturesque stream and the Spadowiec waterfall. The trail is easy and well marked, making it safe even for the youngest hikers.

Important information:

• Admission to the valley is paid (current prices can be checked on the Tatra National Park website).
• Entering the cave requires extra caution - the stairs can be slippery
• It's worth taking a flashlight to better see the interior of the cave
• There are several refreshment points nearby, where you can rest after the walk

Both of these valleys offer quiet and scenic routes, ideal for families with children and those looking for a gentler challenge. They are a great choice for starting an adventure in the Tatras or for recovery days between more challenging hikes.

Remember that even on the easier trails, it's a good idea to be prepared:

• Bring comfortable trekking shoes (even for short trails)
• Take something warm to wear - the weather in the mountains can be changeable
• Don't forget water and snacks
• UV sunscreen and headgear are essential, even on cloudy days
• Always let someone know where you are going and your planned time of return

The Tatra Mountains offer routes for everyone - from leisurely walks to extreme challenges. Whichever route you choose, remember to respect nature and exercise caution. The mountains can be unpredictable, but with proper preparation, they will provide unforgettable experiences and views that will stay in your memory for a long time.