Description

Hiking and climbing tour from Kuźnice (1011 meters) to Kościelec (Slovak: Koščielec, 2155 meters) via Schronisko Murowaniec (1500 meters).

Kościelec, sometimes referred to as the “Polish Matterhorn”, is a conspiciuous peak in the Polish part of the High Tatras (Tatry Wysokie) mountain range.

Note: every height stated is AMSL, i.e. Above Mean Sea Level.

Photos and Video

April 2025

April 2024

Map, Topography

Notes and recommendations (winter)

As opposed to the Slovak part of the High Tatras mountain range, the general visitor is allowed to climb to higher altitude areas in winter for there is no winter closure in Poland.

By High Tatra standards it is definitely one of the more technical and difficult winter ascents, especially on the last fifty meters, so crampons and an ice axe are mandatory gear, as well as a helmet. A rope might also be advisable. 

You need about one and a half hours from Karb (“Gap”, 1853 meters) to the peak when snow is obstructing a good deal of the footpath, and orientation can be a problem in some places. 

Please do yourself a favor and check the avalanche reports before you set off to the mountains in winter time.