Gerlach Peak Guided Ascent, in Slovakia

This Gerlach Peak guided ascent will take you to one of the most famous summits in Slovakia!

Gerlachovský štít (Gerlach) is the highest peak in the High Tatras, Slovakia, and the entire Carpathian Mountain range, which stretches across Slovakia, Poland, Ukraine, and Romania. Gerlach is known for its challenging ascents, most of which are climbing or orientation-intensive.

The simplest routes, known as the Normálky, include the Velická and Batizovská próba ascents, which do not require prior climbing experience but demand good physical condition and familiarity with mountain travel.

The longest ascent is Martin's Route, a ridge hike starting from the Polský hrebeň saddle and largely following the High Tatras' main ridge. As Gerlach is situated within a protected national park, climbing is restricted to members of Slovak and foreign mountaineering clubs, as well as those guided by IFMGA-certified mountain guides.

• Velická and Batizovská Próba are considered easier, with a difficulty of II UIAA in some sections. The route gains 1,100 meters in elevation and takes approximately 7 to 8 hours round-trip from the Sliezsky dom mountain hotel.
• Martin's Route has a difficulty of III UIAA and takes around 10 hours, with a shortened version to Gerlachovské sedlo taking around 8 hours.
• Other routes are more demanding, with the hardest climb currently featuring 12 climbing lengths and a difficulty of VIII (7a French).

All routes traverse high-altitude rocky terrain with exposed sections, requiring solid climbing skills and belaying techniques. There are no secured paths (VIA Ferrata) on Gerlach. The High Tatras is served by a professional mountain rescue service (HZS), and it’s recommended to have mountain insurance for safety in case of a rescue.

Take on the Gerlachovský štít ascent, the highest peak in the High Tatra - led by IFMGA-certified guides, you'll be in safe hands every step of the way. Contact us to arrange your ascent!