The best walks and hikes around Czarny Staw pod Rysami
4.8
(2818)
36,493
hikers
54
hikes
Hiking around Czarny Staw pod Rysami offers trails through the high Tatras, characterized by alpine lakes and rugged mountainous terrain. The region features prominent peaks and deep valleys, with Czarny Staw pod Rysami itself being a significant glacial lake nestled beneath the Rysy peak. Trails often involve rocky paths and significant elevation changes, providing a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience. The landscape is dominated by granite formations and sparse alpine vegetation at higher altitudes.
Best hiking trails around Czarny Staw pod Rysami
- The most popular hiking route is Morskie Oko – Morskie Oko (Sea Eye) loop from Eye of the Sea, a 3.4 miles (5.5 km) trail that takes 2 hours 40 minutes to complete, offering a full circuit around the iconic Morskie Oko lake.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Morskie Oko (Sea Eye) – Black Lake below Rysy loop from Eye of the Sea, a difficult 2.4 miles (3.8 km) path that leads directly to Czarny Staw pod Rysami, providing close-up views of the Rysy peak.
- Local hikers also love the Morskie Oko (Sea Eye) – View of Morskie Oko loop from Eye of the Sea, a 2.9 miles (4.6 km) trail leading through mountainous terrain with scenic viewpoints overlooking Morskie Oko, often completed in about 2 hours 1 minute.
- Hiking around Czarny Staw pod Rysami is defined by alpine lakes, rocky trails, and mountainous terrain. The extensive network of routes offers options for easy strolls, moderate ascents, and difficult high-mountain expeditions.
- The routes in Czarny Staw pod Rysami are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 2,700 reviews. More than 36,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Czarny Staw pod Rysami's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
109
hikers
5.52km
02:40
400m
400m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(2)
82
hikers
3.71km
01:41
170m
170m
Hard hike. Great for any fitness level. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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5.0
(1)
40
hikers
4.61km
02:01
200m
200m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
5.0
(1)
46
hikers
4.65km
02:03
200m
200m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
41
hikers
5.59km
03:03
440m
440m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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Popular around Czarny Staw pod Rysami
Tips from the Community
If there is a lot of snow, it is worth starting from the left under the shelter, the right path is more difficult and dangerous. At the path leading to the upper lake, you can decide whether to turn back or go around.
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HIGHLY RECOMMENDED route! :) https://www.komoot.it/tour/2645265731?ref=aso&share_token=aPn37XI5qGPgr6TnRFIaS14czzky9ZEloOuhvbgy4 The view at the top is spectacular. There were four of us in the third week of October. We did the COUNTERCLOCKWISE TOUR (and we recommend it). Tips: - Check the weather forecast before leaving. - There was snow at the top, so the recommended clothing is: layered clothing with tights, waterproof pants, waterproof snow boots (trekking boots), crampons, a thermal shirt, a fleece, a waterproof jacket, and snow gloves. - There's no need to bring too many liters of water because there's a refuge at the top where you can also have lunch (name: Schronisko PTTK w Dolinie). - Sure-footedness and good physical condition are required. -Do not venture out if there's a storm or severe weather. -Even in the rain, the trail can be slippery. (We did NOT have crampons, so we went slowly on the descents and paid close attention.)
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Large shelter. Quite expensive. With clean, paid toilets available. Large recreation area nearby.
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Beautiful trail around the lake and up to the Black Pond Lake. Stunning views from the Mountain Hut itself.
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Viewpoint on the blue trail from Morskie Oko to the Valley of Five Polish Lakes. View of Morskie Oko and the peaks of the High Tatras. The approach from Morskie Oko is quite steep, but apart from the difficulties in terms of fitness and the rock in Żleb Żandarmerii, it does not pose any major difficulties. https://youtu.be/dkuhN-VDZvk?si=Y8c9SHL7JVb0PqCU
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A steep climb from Morskie Oko and you are at the extraordinary Czarny Staw. Similarly to Czarny Staw Gąsienicowy, the "black" here is from the shadows cast on the water by the mountains and the cyanobacteria that occurs here. Since it is below Rysy, you can see Rysy, but Kazalnica, Mięguszowiecki Szczyt Czarny and Wołowy Grzbiet - there is something to see.
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An incredibly beautiful view of four of the Five Lakes. I will say that it is worth stopping here and looking, but you will also stop and gape with delight!
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Morskie Oko is the largest lake in the High Tatras, it has an area of 34.93 ha and a maximum depth of 50.8 m. It lies at an altitude of 1395.4 m in the Dolina Rybiego Potok valley in Poland under Rysy. The circumference of the lake is 2613 m, the length is about 862 m and the width is 566 m. The volume of water is 9,935,000 m³. The lake is of glacial origin.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the general difficulty of hiking trails around Czarny Staw pod Rysami?
The trails around Czarny Staw pod Rysami are predominantly challenging. Out of 54 available routes, 33 are rated as difficult, and 20 are moderate. There is only 1 easy route, indicating that most hikes involve significant elevation changes and rocky terrain, suitable for experienced hikers.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options near Czarny Staw pod Rysami?
While many trails are difficult, there is 1 easy route available. For families, the general area around Morskie Oko, which is the starting point for many trails leading to Czarny Staw pod Rysami, offers more accessible paths. The initial paved road to Morskie Oko is suitable for strollers, though the path to Czarny Staw itself is much more rugged.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in this region?
The Tatra National Park, where Czarny Staw pod Rysami is located, has strict regulations regarding dogs. Dogs are generally not allowed on most hiking trails to protect wildlife and maintain the natural environment. It's best to check the current regulations of the Tatra National Park before planning your visit with a dog.
What is the best time of year to hike around Czarny Staw pod Rysami?
The best time to hike is typically from late spring (June) through early autumn (September/October). During these months, the weather is generally more stable, trails are free of snow, and mountain huts are fully operational. Winter hiking is possible but requires specialized equipment, experience, and awareness of avalanche risks.
Are there any circular walks available around Czarny Staw pod Rysami?
Yes, there are several circular walks. For instance, the Morskie Oko – Morskie Oko (Sea Eye) loop from Eye of the Sea offers a full circuit around the iconic Morskie Oko lake. Another option is the Morskie Oko Mountain Hut – Morskie Oko Mountain Hut loop from Eye of the Sea, which provides a longer, more challenging circular experience.
Where can I find parking when visiting Czarny Staw pod Rysami?
The primary parking area for accessing trails towards Czarny Staw pod Rysami is located at Palenica Białczańska. From there, you typically walk or take a horse-drawn carriage to Morskie Oko, and then continue on foot to Czarny Staw. Parking spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak season, so arriving early is highly recommended.
Are there any places to eat or get refreshments along the trails?
Yes, the Morskie Oko Mountain Hut (Schronisko PTTK nad Morskim Okiem) is a prominent feature in the area, located by Morskie Oko lake. It offers food, drinks, and accommodation, serving as a crucial stop for hikers heading towards Czarny Staw pod Rysami and Rysy peak.
What kind of views or natural attractions can I expect to see?
Hikers can expect breathtaking alpine scenery, including the deep blue glacial lake of Czarny Staw pod Rysami itself, nestled beneath the towering Rysy peak. The area is characterized by rugged granite formations, sparse alpine vegetation, and panoramic views of the High Tatras. The Morskie Oko (Sea Eye) – View of Morskie Oko loop from Eye of the Sea specifically highlights scenic viewpoints overlooking Morskie Oko.
How does hiking to Czarny Staw pod Rysami compare to Morskie Oko?
Morskie Oko is more accessible, often reached via a paved road, making it popular for a wider range of visitors. Czarny Staw pod Rysami, on the other hand, is located higher up, above Morskie Oko, and requires a more strenuous hike on rocky, uneven terrain. The trail to Czarny Staw offers a more challenging and secluded high-mountain experience with closer views of Rysy.
What do other hikers say about the trails around Czarny Staw pod Rysami?
The hiking routes in this region are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 2,700 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the challenging yet rewarding ascents, and the iconic views of the glacial lakes and surrounding peaks.
Are there any public transport options to reach the starting points of the trails?
Yes, public transport is available. Buses and minibuses frequently run from Zakopane to Palenica Białczańska, which is the main entry point for trails leading to Morskie Oko and subsequently to Czarny Staw pod Rysami. This is the most common way for hikers without private vehicles to access the area.
What should I know about winter hiking in the Czarny Staw pod Rysami area?
Winter hiking in this region is demanding and suitable only for experienced individuals. Trails are often covered in deep snow and ice, requiring specialized equipment like crampons, ice axes, and avalanche safety gear. Conditions can change rapidly, and avalanche risk is significant. It's crucial to check current weather forecasts and avalanche warnings before attempting any winter hikes.
Most popular routes around Czarny Staw pod Rysami
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