Kasprowy Wierch Cable Car

The cable car from Kuznice to Kasprowy Wierch was built in 1935-1936 in about seven months, which was fast for the terrain and was controversial at the time because it ran into a protected area; the argument about it has continued in one form or another ever since. It climbs in two sections with an intermediate station at Myslenickie Turnie to a top station at 1987 metres, on the main ridge of the Tatras with the Slovak border running across the summit. At the top there is a meteorological observatory, in continuous operation since 1938 and one of the highest in Poland, and views along the ridge into both countries in clear weather. In winter the north-facing bowls below are the highest lift-served skiing in Poland, with a long season. Numbers going up are capped for conservation reasons, which is why tickets are timed and sell out. Walking routes lead along the ridge from the top.

What you actually see

• A cable car of 1936 - built in seven months, still the route to the ridge.
• The top at 1987 metres - on the main Tatra ridge with the border across it.
• A weather observatory - running continuously since 1938.
• Ridge walks and winter bowls - trails both ways, and the highest lift skiing in Poland.

When to go

June to September, or the ski season. Half a day.

Honest expectations

Ticket numbers are capped and timed slots sell out days ahead in season - book online. The cable car stops in high wind and lightning. The summit is often in cloud. It is cold and exposed at the top even in July.

Nearby

Zakopane is below; the Gasienicowa valley trails lead off the ridge.