Every Slovak knows the shape of this mountain. Kriváň rises to 2,494 metres with a distinctive curved peak that appears on coins, stamps, and the national emblem. It is not the highest peak in the Tatras, but it is the most beloved. The climb takes five to seven hours and demands steady legs and respect for the weather. The trail passes through meadows of alpine flowers, across rocky scree fields, and up a final steep section where chains assist the scramble. At the summit, the view stretches across the entire High Tatras range. A metal statue of a horned ram marks the top, and the wind never stops blowing.
Kriváň is one of the highest peaks in the High Tatras Mountains and one of the most famous tourist destinations in High Tatras National Park. It is located in Slovakia near the Polish border, in the region of Prešov. Its elevation is 2494,7 m. Several ridges begin on this peak. The best for hiking are the most southern and southwestern ridge. South ridge runs across Daxner’s saddle, Small Kriváň and ends at Nad Pavlovou Hill.
Southwest ridge runs across two apparent elevations – i.e. upper and Lower Priehyba – and ends in afforested Grunik. These routes belong to quite difficult and challenging hikes in the High Tatras and require some physical and technical prowess. The part of the route is fixed and secured with chains. Kriváň peak offers beautiful views. You can see almost the entire ridge of Low Tatras, West Tatras and the Red Hills to the northwest.
You can access Kriváň from several places:
- Tri studničky (following blue-green route, 2h10/2h30)
- Štrbské pleso lake (blue-red route, 3h00/3h30)
- Pod jamami (blue, 2h45/3h30)
Kriváň is not even among the 20 highest peaks in Slovakia (but 27th). But its magical silhouette with noticeably curved top, after which is named, attracted poets, painters and ordinary people since beginning. Lots of myths and legends exist about Kriváň. In the past, it was a symbol of strengthening of the national pride and identity, sometimes abused for political goals.
This massive peak became a symbol of Slovak national consciousness and in 2005 it was decided that it will be displayed on the back of the Slovak euro coins with a face value of 1, 2 and 5 cents.
View Kriváň Peak (2495m) – the symbol of Slovakia in a larger map
Best Time to climb Kriváň and What to Expect on the Trail
The official hiking season runs from June 15 to October 31, when mountain huts are open and trails are clear of snow. July and August offer the most reliable weather, with average summit temperatures of 8 to 12 degrees Celsius. September brings smaller crowds and vibrant autumn colours as alpine meadows turn gold. The climb from Tri studničky takes 5 to 7 hours round trip covering 12 kilometres with an elevation gain of 1,050 metres. From Štrbské pleso the route is longer at 15 kilometres, taking 6 to 8 hours. The final 300 metres involve metal chains bolted into the rock. These sections are exposed but not technically difficult. Wear sturdy boots, carry at least 1.5 litres of water, and bring a waterproof jacket even on clear mornings. Thunderstorms can develop by early afternoon, so starting before 7 AM is strongly recommended.
Alpine Flora, Wildlife, and the Legend of Kriváň
The lower slopes are covered in spruce forests that give way to dwarf pine and alpine meadows above 1,700 metres. In June and July, the meadows bloom with gentians and edelweiss, their bright colours contrasting against the grey scree. Chamois are frequently spotted on the rocky upper slopes, and marmots whistle warnings from boulder fields. Golden eagles circle above the summit ridge. The Tatras are home to 1,350 species of alpine plants, 37 of which are endemic. One of the oldest Slovak legends tells of the knight Kriváň who guarded a hidden treasure in the mountain. When invaders approached, he transformed himself into stone, his curved peak becoming the mountain itself. Thousands of Slovaks make the climb each year, singing the national anthem at the summit. The metal statue of a chamois at the summit has become a national symbol that appears on Slovak euro coins.
Would you attempt the Kriváň summit hike or prefer to admire it from the valley? 🥾
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