Chochołowska Valley

Chochołowska Valley is one of the most popular destinations in the Polish Tatras, especially for those planning hikes to Grześ, Rakoń, Wołowiec or Trzydniowiański Wierch. The valley is long (about 8 km) and scenic, but the main route to the mountain hut follows a wide, mostly paved or gravel road, which lacks the charm of wilder mountain trails. However, the views from the upper trails and the open space around the hut definitely make up for the monotonous approach. That’s why biking to the hut is a great idea – especially since the ride back after a long hike is almost entirely downhill, saving both time and energy. Practical tip: To enter the Chochołowska Valley by bike, you need a separate cycling ticket (different from the general Tatra National Park entry ticket). Unfortunately, it can't be purchased online and must be bought at the ticket booth – which often means waiting in line. It's best to arrive early in the morning before the crowds appear.

I walked to the valley twice now, once in winter and once in spring. Although I would recommend visiting in March/April when there’s a lot of crocuses covering the fields and turning the fields purple, the walk was still pretty in February when it was mostly covered in snow. Oh and make sure to try the oscypek cheese with cranberry sauce when starting the walk. It adds to the whole atmosphere of the walk.

Entry fees (11zl). Nice landscape but quite boring unfortunately (especially for kids), one trail is 1h+ straight through an asphalt road. Best to come in the morning and avoid late afternoon, as most of the hiking trail take 1h+ to do.

It is one of my favourite valleys in Tatra mountains. Especially the last part near mountain shelter. I have visited this valley many times and it is beautiful and different during all part of the years.

Very disappointing experience at Chochołowska Valley. There were way too many people. Long lines just to get in. There are two separate queues — one for buying tickets with cash, and another to show that you bought your ticket online — but this is never explained anywhere. We only found out by asking other visitors standing in line. There’s absolutely no clear information: not on the internet, not on signs at the entrance, and not even at the ticket booth. The staff were unhelpful and visibly annoyed when asked simple questions about how to buy a ticket. We started our hike in a terrible mood and honestly, it ruined the whole experience. If you’re planning to visit, do your research beforehand, or you’ll waste time, energy, and your mood. Another major issue is the overcrowding. There are just too many people. The best solution would be to significantly raise the ticket prices — fewer people would come, and those who do would have a much better experience. The only positive thing I can say is that the nature itself is beautiful, and the trail isn’t too difficult. But sadly, everything else overshadowed that.

Very nice place with a possibility to rent a bike. I didn't like the fact that the entry to valley is not for free.

What an awesome place! Easy hiking! Very nice trail for a perfect spring day. Of course it can be overcrowded, so my advice is to go very early in the morning. But it’s definitely worth a hike :)

What a lovely way to connect with nature and enjoy the beautiful scenery that Poland has to offer. I was in awe of everything around me and the wonderful time we had in this valley. My husband rented a bike and had a wonderful time riding in the valley while I took a horse carriage ride with the kids, which we thoroughly enjoyed. It was a perfect afternoon in a perfect place.