Zielony Staw Gąsienicowy

Zielony Staw Gąsienicowy is a stunning emerald-green lake located in the Gąsienicowa Valley, one of the most beautiful glacial cirques in the Tatra National Park. The lake sits at an elevation of 1,672 meters and is fed by mountain streams, its color resulting from fine rock particles suspended in the water. The hike to the lake takes about 2–3 hours from the Kuźnice district of Zakopane, passing through the Hala Gąsienicowa meadow and past the Murowaniec mountain hut. In summer, the area is a hub for hikers heading to higher peaks like Kościelec and Świnica. The lake is a perfect spot for a picnic, with the jagged peaks of the Orla Perć trail reflected in its calm waters.

Don't miss

• Photograph the lake's distinctive green hue against the backdrop of granite peaks.
• Rest at the Murowaniec mountain hut, a historic stone building serving hot meals and drinks.
• Take the short side trail to Czarny Staw Gąsienicowy, a darker, more dramatic lake nearby.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Zielony Staw Gąsienicowy

Cheapest way inKrakow - Zakopane: Funicular, Cheese and Highland Highlights5★ · 80 travelers8–10 hoursFree cancellationFrom$21 per personSee dates →Best full dayKrakow: Zakopane Tour, Thermal Springs, Cable Car & Hotel Pickup4.9★ · 1,258 travelers~11 hoursFree cancellationFrom$46 per personSee dates →Private & flexiblePrivate Full-Day Zakopane and Thermal Baths Tour from Krakow5★ · 27 travelers~11 hoursFree cancellationFrom$243 per personSee dates →