Our journey begins with Siklawica Waterfall, the hidden gem of the Strążyska Valley. Located in Zakopane, this picturesque waterfall is relatively easy to access, making it the perfect first stop on our trip.

How to get there: From the center of Zakopane, head down Strążyska Street toward the Strążyska Valley. The entrance to the valley is about 2 km from the city center. The trail to the waterfall is well marked and takes about 45 minutes of leisurely walking.

Current availability (as of June 2023): The trail is open to hikers year-round, but can be difficult to walk in winter due to icy conditions. Always check the current conditions in the Tatra National Park before setting out.

Siklawica Waterfall, although small (about 12 meters high), is stunning in its beauty. It consists of three cascades, the first of which is the most spectacular. The water falls in a narrow stream, creating a picturesque view against the backdrop of the majestic Giewont. It's the perfect place for a moment of rest and contemplation.

Next, we head toward Wielka Siklawa, the largest waterfall in the Polish Tatra Mountains. It is located in the Roztoka Valley, on the trail leading to the Valley of Five Polish Lakes.

How to get there: From Palenica Białczańska (accessible by bus from Zakopane) follow the green trail towards the Valley of Five Ponds. The route to Wielka Siklawa takes about 2-3 hours of intense walking.

Current availability (as of June 2023): The trail is open from spring to autumn. During winter, it may be closed or very dangerous. Always check TPN announcements before setting out.

The Great Siklawa is a real giant among Tatra waterfalls. The water falls from a height of about 70 meters, creating an impressive spectacle of nature. The roar of the falling water and the spray create an amazing atmosphere that remains in the memory for a long time.

Remember to prepare properly for this trip. Sturdy trekking shoes, warm and waterproof clothing and a supply of water and food are essential. The route to the Great Siklawa is demanding and should only be undertaken by people in good physical condition.

There is no tourist infrastructure near either waterfall, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in nature. However, remember the 'Leave No Trace' rule - take all trash with you and don't disturb the wildlife.

These two waterfalls are the perfect start to our solo journey, offering both easily accessible beauty and a more challenging but extremely rewarding adventure.

Continuing our solo journey along the trail of Tatra waterfalls, we will now move on to two lesser-known but equally fascinating cascades: Twofold Siklawa and Skok waterfall.

Dwoista Siklawa, located near Morskie Oko, is often overlooked by tourists rushing to the famous Tatra lake. This is a mistake, as this waterfall offers unforgettable views and tranquility that is often lacking in more frequented places.

How to get there: From the parking lot in Palenica Białczańska, follow the trail to Morskie Oko (about a 2.5-hour walk). Then go around the lake, heading towards the Black Pond below Rysy. Dwoista Siklawa is located on this route, about 20 minutes from the shelter at Morskie Oko.

Current availability (as of June 2023): The trail is open year-round, but can be very dangerous in winter due to icy conditions and the risk of avalanches. Always check current conditions with TPN before setting out.

The Double Siklawa, as the name suggests, consists of two streams of water falling from a height of about 20 meters. Surrounded by rocks and forest, it creates a picturesque landscape, especially beautiful in early spring, when melting snow feeds the stream.

Next, we move to the Slovakian side of the Tatra Mountains, where the Skok waterfall awaits us. This spectacular waterfall is located in the Mlynická Valley and is one of the most beautiful in the Slovak Tatras.

How to get there: From the village of Štrbské Pleso (accessible by train or bus from the Polish side), follow the yellow trail towards the Mlynická Valley. The route to the waterfall takes about 1.5 hours of leisurely walking.

Current availability (as of June 2023): The trail is open from late spring to early fall. In winter, the valley is closed due to the high risk of avalanches. Check current information with the Slovak Tatra National Park (TANAP) before setting out.

The Skok waterfall is about 25 meters high and is surrounded by majestic peaks. Water falls from the granite wall, creating an impressive view. There are two small ponds nearby, which add to the beauty of the place.

Remember that a hike to the Slovak side of the Tatra Mountains requires extra preparation. Make sure you have your passport or ID card with you and the appropriate currency (euros). It's also a good idea to check train or return bus schedules so you don't get stuck on the Slovak side.

Both Dwoista Siklawa and Skok waterfall offer a unique opportunity to contemplate the beauty of nature away from the crowds. These lesser-known waterfalls allow for a deeper experience of the wildness of the Tatra Mountains and are ideal for those seeking tranquility and an authentic experience.

Remember to prepare properly for these expeditions. Sturdy trekking shoes, warm and waterproof clothing, a supply of water and food, and a map are essential. Always inform someone of your plans before setting out on the trail and be prepared for the changing weather conditions peculiar to the mountains.

At the end of our solo journey along the trail of Tatra waterfalls, we will visit the lesser-known but extremely charming Sarni Waterfall. This small but picturesque waterfall is the perfect place to reflect and sum up our mountain adventure.

Sarni Wodospad is located in the Strążyska Valley, not far from Zakopane, making it easily accessible even to less experienced tourists. It is the perfect place to end our trip in a peaceful way.

How to get there: From the center of Zakopane, head down Strążyska Street toward the Strążyska Valley. The entrance to the valley is located about 2 km from the city center. Sarni Wodospad is located about 20-30 minutes walk from the valley entrance, on the yellow trail.

Current availability (as of June 2023): The trail is open year-round, but can be slippery and challenging in winter. Always check current conditions in the Tatra National Park before setting out.

Sarni Waterfall, though small, has its own unique charm. The water cascades down the rocks, creating a noise that is pleasant to the ear. Surrounded by lush vegetation, it provides an ideal setting for rest and contemplation.

This place is especially beautiful in spring, when melting snow feeds the creek, and in autumn, when the surrounding trees turn golden and red. It's worth bringing your camera to capture these picturesque views.

While visiting the Sarni Waterfall, it is worth noting the surrounding nature. The Strążyska Valley is famous for its rich flora and fauna. If you're quiet and attentive, you may spot roe deer (hence the waterfall's name), and maybe even marmots or chamois.

Remember that despite the easy accessibility, you are still in a national park. Observe the rules of nature conservation, don't go off the trail and don't disturb the wildlife.

At the end of our trip, it is worth summarizing the experience of the waterfalls we visited. Each of them - from the impressive Great Siklawa, to the hidden Dwoista Siklawa, to the picturesque Skok Waterfall, to the intimate Sarni Waterfall - offered a unique experience and perspective on the beauty of Tatra nature.

A solo journey along the trail of Tatra waterfalls is not only a physical hike, but also an inner journey. It's an opportunity to reflect, calm down and recharge your batteries away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Every sound of water, every step on the mountain trail is a moment that stays with us long after we return home.

Remember that safety is paramount. Always inform someone of your plans, check weather forecasts and be prepared for changing conditions. Proper shoes, warm clothing, a supply of water and food and a charged phone are essential.

I hope this trip has inspired you to explore the lesser-known corners of the Tatra Mountains. Remember that the mountains offer countless opportunities - from leisurely walks to challenging climbs. Regardless of your level of experience, you will always find something for you.

Finally, I'd like to encourage you to share your experiences with others, but at the same time maintain a certain mystery about these places. Let them remain hidden treasures for those who really want to discover them.

Thank you for embarking with me on this fascinating journey along the trail of Tatra waterfalls. May the memories of the sound of water and mountain views accompany you in your daily life, inspiring you to more adventures in the beautiful Polish Tatra Mountains.