Climb Gerlach Peak in Slovakia with a mountain guide. Route via Velická and Batizovská Próba, practical tips, and emotions from the summit.
We Did It and We Conquered Gerlach
We stood on top of Gerlachovský štít (2,655 m), the highest mountain in Slovakia and the entire Carpathians. Our journey began early in the morning at the Sliezsky dom mountain hotel, full of excitement and energy. Ahead of us lay the classic route via Velická and Batizovská Próba – about 11 km with an elevation gain of 1,100 meters. From the start, we knew this would be more than just a simple hike.
Through Velická Próba
The first section, through the Velická Valley, past the Eternal Rain waterfall and up to Kvetnica, felt almost relaxed. Then the real climb started. We strapped on our harnesses, helmets, tied into the rope – and tackled the Velická Próba.
Afterwards, the terrain grew steeper. Sometimes we scrambled on all fours over sharp rocks until we reached the Saddle above the Kettle (2,440 m). The views over the High Tatras were breathtaking, but there was no time to linger – the harder part still lay ahead.
Batizovská Couloir and the Final Push
Crossing the Gerlach Basin brought us to the Gap below Kotlový Peak – and finally, we saw our goal. But before reaching it, we had to climb through the steep Batizovská Couloir, a section that tested every ounce of energy left in us.
After more than an hour of demanding ascent, we finally reached the cross on the summit of Gerlach. The exhaustion disappeared instantly. From above, the Tatras unfolded like a map, and we felt a mix of awe, joy, and relief. A few photos, a quick snack, and then we reminded ourselves: reaching the top is only half the journey.
The Tough Descent and Meeting Chamois
The way down was even harder. Fatigue combined with steep terrain made the Batizovská Próba with its iron steps a real challenge. From there, the trail led us to the peaceful Batizovské Lake, where we refueled and admired the view of the route we had just conquered. A family of chamois curiously watched us – calm and unbothered, as if to say: “This is our home.”
The last stretch along the Tatra Magistrala trail back to the Sliezsky dom took the very last bits of our strength. But we ended the day with a smile – and with a well-deserved thematic beer named Gerlach.
Practical Tips for Climbing Gerlach
- A mountain guide is mandatory – climbing Gerlach is officially allowed only with a certified guide.
- Route: Sliezsky dom – Velická Próba – Saddle above the Kettle – Batizovská Couloir – Gerlach – descent via Batizovská Próba and Batizovské Lake.
- Distance & elevation: about 11 km, 1,100 m ascent, 8–10 hours in total.
- Gear: sturdy hiking boots, layers for changing weather, helmet, harness (guide provides ropes and technical equipment).
- Best season: late summer and early autumn offer the most stable conditions.
- Starting point: Sliezsky dom – accessible by car, taxi, or a 2-hour hike from Starý Smokovec.
Conclusion: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
The climb to Gerlach Peak in High Tatras is not just about reaching the highest point of Slovakia. It’s a day filled with adrenaline, emotion, and humility in the face of raw alpine nature.
Once you’ve stood at the cross on Gerlach, you will never see the Tatras the same way again.
Read more:
Huncovský and Kežmarský Peak: Three High Tatras Summits in One Epic Day
