4.8
(175)
788
hikers
72
hikes
Hiking around Selmęt Mały, a lake in Poland's Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship, offers routes through a natural setting characterized by forested shores and undeveloped landscapes. The area features natural walking paths and recreation areas, providing a tranquil experience. The lake, approximately 900 meters long and up to 300 meters wide, is bordered by forests, contributing to a peaceful ambiance. Low-lying shores and a connection to the larger Selmęt Wielki lake integrate it into the broader Ełk Lakeland system.
Last updated: July 12, 2026
5.0
(6)
14
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(9)
7
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4
hikers
6.11km
01:34
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
5.83km
01:30
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
6.05km
01:33
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Sacred Heart Church (Polish: Kościół Najświętszego Serca Jezusowego, "Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus") in Ełk dates back to the early 1920s and was the Protestant parish church of the East Prussian district town until 1945. It was then taken over by the Catholic Church and rededicated as the "Sacred Heart Church". Today it is the second oldest of the eleven Catholic churches in the city in eastern Masuria.
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Resting place by the Ełk river in Nowa Wieś Ełcka. If someone is kayaking, at this point it needs to be carried across the street.
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The observation tower and pier located on the beach and water sports centre can be reached via city bike paths.
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Mural created in Ełk – This is one of the most interesting surfaces for a mural in Ełk, an open space perfectly visible to both cars and trains. Project created in cooperation with PRIBO Ełk.
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View of the bridge over Lake Ełk in fog.
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A view of the oldest section of the promenade in beautiful autumn colors.
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A forest path that allows you to go around Lake Selmęt Mały.
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A promenade along the beach in the Jeziorna estate with a pier, a small observation tower and a camping site.
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There are over 60 hiking trails accessible directly from bus stops around Selmęt Mały. The majority of these, 43 routes, are rated as easy, making them suitable for various fitness levels. Another 18 routes offer a moderate challenge.
Yes, the area boasts 43 easy hiking trails that start conveniently from bus stops. These routes are generally shorter with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a relaxed outing. An example is the Ełk Observation Tower – Ełk City Beach loop from Grajewska 01, which is just under 5 km long.
Absolutely. There are 18 moderate hiking trails accessible from bus stations around Selmęt Mały. These routes might be longer or have slightly more varied terrain. For instance, the Baranki Beach – Ełk City Beach loop from Barany offers a moderate 8.6 km hike.
Many of the easy routes are ideal for families. The natural walking paths around Lake Selmęt Mały offer a tranquil experience away from developed infrastructure, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for children. Routes like the City Beach (new) – Outdoor gym – pier at Baranki loop from Grajewska 04 are relatively short and pass by points of interest.
Yes, many of the trails in this guide are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same bus stop. This makes planning your public transport journey straightforward. The Calypso Shopping Center – Footbridge at John Paul II Square loop from Grajewska 01 is a great example of a circular route.
The trails primarily lead through serene forested areas bordering Lake Selmęt Mały. You'll experience natural, undeveloped landscapes, offering a peaceful escape. The lake itself is connected to the larger Selmęt Wielki, providing a sense of being within a broader natural system.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.88 stars from 146 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquil atmosphere, the natural beauty of the lake and surrounding forests, and the accessibility of the trails from public transport.
While Selmęt Mały emphasizes its natural attributes, some routes may pass by local features. For example, the Mural 'Tu Viaggiam!' in Ełk – Ełk Topiary Sign loop from Elk takes you through parts of Ełk, where you might encounter urban art and local landmarks.
The region is beautiful throughout the warmer months, from spring to autumn, when the forest paths are most inviting and the lake offers a refreshing view. Spring brings lush greenery, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Even in winter, with appropriate gear, the snowy landscapes can offer a unique hiking experience.
Generally, the natural walking paths around Selmęt Mały are suitable for dogs, provided they are kept on a leash and you clean up after them. Always check local regulations or signage for specific restrictions, especially in more sensitive natural areas or near beaches.
Given the focus on natural, undeveloped landscapes, amenities directly on the trails are limited. However, since many routes start from bus stops in or near Ełk, you'll find cafes, shops, and restrooms within the city before or after your hike. It's always advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks.


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