Rusinowa Polana Hike with a Mountain Guide

The most scenic trail in the Polish Tatras — panoramic views of the highest peaks and a charming mountain chapel.

Duration

3 – 4 hours

Ascent / Descent

150m / 200m

Difficulty

Easy

From

€300 / group

Season

April – November

Highlights

The most beautiful panorama of the High Tatras — Łomnica, Gerlach, Rysy

Charming chapel at Wiktorówki with commemorative mountain plaques

Easy approach trail — suitable for families and all fitness levels

Licensed local mountain guide with deep knowledge of Tatra history

Route details

Full route

Zakopane → Wierch Poroniec → Rusinowa Polana → Wiktorówki → Zazadnia → Zakopane

Duration

3 – 4 hours

Total Ascent

150 m

Total Descent

200 m

Difficulty

Easy

Extend the hike to Gęsia Szyja for an even more stunning ridgeline panorama

+ €24

What to expect

This guided hike follows the most scenic trail in the Polish Tatras to the enchanting Rusinowa Polana - a mountain meadow sitting at around 1,200 metres above sea level, offering what many consider the most spectacular panorama in the entire range.

From the meadow, you'll take in views of the highest Tatra peaks: Łomnica, Lodowy Szczyt, Gerlach, and Rysy. These majestic summits, often still snow-capped well into summer, create a landscape that's genuinely breathtaking — especially at sunrise or sunset, when the peaks glow with warm golden light.

Along the way, the trail winds through lush forests, open mountain meadows, and diverse rock formations that make for incredible photos. Your licensed mountain guide will share the history, ecology, and traditions of the region as you walk.

On the descent to Zazadnia, you'll have the chance to visit the Chapel of Our Lady of Jaworzyna in Wiktorówki. This small but deeply charming place of worship is known for its beautiful forest setting and the commemorative plaques honouring those who dedicated their lives to the mountains — mountaineers, rescuers, and those who lost their lives in the Tatras. It's an intimate, peaceful stop that adds a meaningful dimension to the hike.

The entire tour — from Rusinowa Polana through the chapel at Wiktorówki — is a harmonious blend of natural beauty, culture, and mountain history. It's an ideal choice for anyone who wants to fully experience the magic of the Tatras without a demanding climb.

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What to bring

Comfortable hiking shoes

Weather- appropriate layers

Water & snacks

Camera for the panorama

Sunscreen & sunglasses

Rain jacket (ask guide if needed)

Meeting point

Need transport to the trailhead? We can arrange pickup from your accommodation in Zakopane or the surrounding area. Just let us know when booking.

Frequently asked

How fit do I need to be for this hike?

The Rusinowa Polana hike is considered an easy hike, suitable for hikers of any fitness level.

The Rusinowa Polana hike is ideal for groups and families with children.

We recommend reaching out to us to see how the weather is shaping up to be on the day of your hike. Rapid weather shifts are common in the Tatras, so a raincoat and an extra clothing layer are recommended taking.

The full price applies for groups of any size and includes a guided Rusinowa Polana hike and insightful information about the region’s history from your professional guide.

Reviews

5.0

Based on 326 reviews

Lin C.

Apr 2016, came as a couple

We randomly came across Stanisław’s website and decided to have a cave tour with him. We did not have any caving experience before but he really made the adventure safe but exciting! Definitely a professional! My girlfriend was also very happy about the photos he took for us!

Bàrbara L

Oct 2017, came as a couple

Stan is the best mountain guide of Tatra because knows perfectly these mountains and also is a ski instructor and a member of the Voluntary Tatra Mountains Rescue Team. He recommended us the route of the lakes and it was the best choice. The views were beautiful. If we go back to Tatra Mountains we will repeat with his guiding service ¡Thanks for all and see you soon!! Albert and Barbara

Cancellation policy

Flexible booking

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the hike. Within 24 hours, a 50% fee applies. No-shows are non-refundable.

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