Published March 2025

Hiking to Ďumbier, the highest peak of Nízke Tatry

Ďumbier (2,043 m a.s.l.) is the highest peak of Nízke Tatry and offers stunning panoramic views of Vysoké Tatry and Západné Tatry to the north and Horehronie to the south. Ďumbier is very popular among hikers and ski mountaineers, who can admire nature, breathtaking views, and wildlife such as marmots and chamois.

Historical significance

During World War II, intense battles took place around Ďumbier between partisans and German forces. These events are commemorated by a wooden double cross at the summit and a memorial plaque at the M. R. Štefánik mountain hut.

Access routes

From Trangoška via the M. R. Štefánik hut: This route is ideal for those looking for a less demanding ascent. A green-marked trail leads from Trangoška to the M. R. Štefánik hut, from where a red-marked trail continues through Rázcestie na Krúpove sedlo to the summit of Ďumbier. The total ascent time is approximately 3 hours with an elevation gain of 961 meters. The winter route differs from the summer one. The hike from Trangoška is undoubtedly the most popular choice for all hikers and ski mountaineers.

From Chopok along the ridge: For experienced hikers, the ridge hike from Chopok to Ďumbier is an attractive option. The route follows the red-marked trail through Konské, Demänovské sedlo, and Krúpove sedlo. The ascent takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes with an elevation gain of 367 meters.

 

From Čertovica along the ridge: This route follows the legendary Trail of the Heroes of the Slovak National Uprising (SNP) and offers unforgettable views of the surrounding mountains. It is an easy hike with plenty of beautiful scenery.

From Lúčky through Široká dolina: This more challenging route starts in Lúčky and leads through Široká dolina and Krúpovo sedlo to Ďumbier. You can then continue along the ridge to Chopok and descend back through Luková to Demänovská dolina. The total route length is 18.6 km with an elevation gain of 1,411 meters and takes approximately 7 hours.

 

Transportation and Parking

Trangoška: Paid parking lot for those starting the ascent from the southern side. In certain cases, parking can also be free 😊.

Hotel Srdiečko: Paid parking lot for those starting the ascent from the southern side. In certain cases, parking can also be free 😊.

Demänovská dolina (Jasná – Biela Púť): Central parking for tourists arriving from the northern side.

Public Transport: Bus connections are available at the Trangoška and Demänovská dolina, Jasná stops.

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What Awaits You on the Way to the Summit from Trangoška?

Let’s explore the most popular route for the ascent to Ďumbier. Along the way, you’ll find these interesting places:

Halašová jama - If tourists set out from Trangoška to the M. R. Štefánik hut, their path passes through an area known as Halašová jama. However, few people know the story behind this name. A tragic event occurred on May 2, 1942, during the ski race Grand Prix of the Low Tatras. A talented 16-year-old alpine skier, Aľjoš Halaš, tragically fell into a depression during the race and sustained serious injuries. Despite being rushed to a hospital in Podbrezová, his life could not be saved. In his honor, the Aľjoš Halaš Memorial started in 1944, and the place where the tragedy occurred became known as “Halašová jama.”

Cave of the Dead Bats - Located not far from the route from Trangoška to the M. R. Štefánik hut, this cave is an interesting addition to your hike. The cave is situated on the right side on a steep slope. A reservation is required to visit the cave.

M. R. Štefánik Hut - Located below Ďumbier, the M. R. Štefánik Hut is an ideal place for rest, refreshment, and accommodation before the final ascent to the summit. It is a year-round mountain hut in the Low Tatras. Visitors can enjoy traditional goulash, refreshing draft beer, and those wishing to spend the night in the mountains can stay in cozy rooms. Several hiking trails lead to the “Štefánik Hut” from different directions. Options include the ascent from Chopok, from Čertovica, from Jánska Dolina, from Mýto pod Ďumbierom via Mlynná Dolina, and from the north through Široká Dolina and Krúpovo Sedlo. Each of these routes offers unique views and experiences, and the hut is the perfect spot to rest before continuing your journey.

Slovak National Uprising Trail - This is the longest hiking trail in Slovakia, spanning approximately 760 km. It runs across the country from the Dukla Pass in the northeast to the Bradlo hill (543 m above sea level) in the west and is marked with a red hiking symbol. Hikers ascending Ďumbier from the M. R. Štefánik Hut will walk along this historic route. The trail offers magnificent views and leads through one of the most beautiful sections of the Low Tatras. Following the red trail, they will continue to Krúpova Hoľa Saddle, where they will begin their final ascent to the summit of Ďumbier.

Ascent to Ďumbier in the Winter Months

In the winter months, Ďumbier is primarily occupied by ski mountaineers, and the winter route to Ďumbier from Trangoška is different from the summer one. In the summer, the direct ascent to Ďumbier is prohibited due to soil erosion. During the winter, the ground is frozen and covered with a layer of snow and ice. Because the ground is frozen, it is possible to ascend Ďumbier directly from above Halašová jama in winter. It is recommended to always have crampons in your backpack, as conditions here can change quickly and there is a risk of slipping. If you plan to ascend Ďumbier, be sure to follow the recommendations of the Mountain Rescue Service.

 

Accommodation in Brezno

Brezno is an excellent starting point for hiking to Ďumbier. From Brezno, you can get to Trangoška by car or bus, where a marked trail leads to the summit. If you prefer a more challenging route, you can be driven to Hotel Srdiečko and continue to Chopok, from where you can reach Ďumbier via the Heroes of the Slovak National Uprising Trail.

If you're looking for luxurious accommodation at an affordable price and want to save on expensive hotels, you can stay at the Apartmán Lesa in Brezno. This apartment offers comfortable and modern accommodation in the heart of the Low Tatras. You can explore historic Brezno, visit restaurants and bars in the evening, and we would be very happy if you choose our Apartmán Lesa in Brezno as your base for hiking to Ďumbier.

Don't have accommodation yet?

We offer accommodation in Brezno under the Tatras at unbeatable prices. You can find the accommodation price list >> HERE <<

Call & book

+421 918 679 377

Write & book

[email protected]

Notice

The data on trail lengths, ascent times, and elevation gain are approximate and may vary depending on current conditions and the hiker’s pace. It is recommended to check the current weather information and trail conditions before embarking on a hike.