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Waterfall · Starý Smokovec, Prešov
Studený Creek Waterfalls
A set of cascades in the Studený potok valley, about a 30-minute trail from Hrebienok. The highest, Obrovský vodopád, drops about 20 meters between two rocks and is viewed from the Magistrála bridge.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Studený Creek Waterfalls
The Studený potok waterfalls (Vodopády Studeného potoka) form a tiered cascade system in the valley of the stream of the same name, just below Hrebienok. They are among the most visited waterfalls of the High Tatras because they are about a 30-minute trail from the funicular station, on a path that stays open year-round.
The tallest is Obrovský vodopád (Giant Waterfall), at the point where the stream passes between two rocks and plunges about 20 meters. It is well seen from the wooden bridge of the Magistrála Tatranská, the high trail that crosses the massif. Below the junction of the Veľký and Malý Studený potok streams there are four other drops: Malý vodopád, Skrytý vodopád at about 1,247 meters, and the cascades of Veľký vodopád, the highest of those at about 13 meters.
Closer to Hrebienok, in front of Bilíkova chata, is Dlhý vodopád, an elongated cascade visible from the yellow trail that leads to Tatranská Lesná. The entire path crosses spruce and pine forest, with steps and wooden bridges.
Water volume varies with the season: it is usually higher in late spring with snowmelt and after rains. In winter, parts of the falls freeze.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About one and a half hours, round trip from Hrebienok, with stops at the waterfalls.
Best time
At the end of spring and the beginning of summer, when the waterfalls usually have more water. Early in the morning the path is quieter. In winter the trail remains open, with snow and ice.
How to get there
From Hrebienok, via the Magistrála red trail or the trail that descends the valley, in about 30 minutes. To reach Hrebienok, take the funicular from Starý Smokovec.
Tip
To see all the falls, do a loop: descend from Hrebienok via the valley trail and return along the Magistrála, passing the bridge in front of the Obrovský vodopád. Shoes with good soles help on the wet steps.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Studený Creek Waterfalls
How do you get to the Studený potok waterfalls?
On foot from Hrebienok in about 30 minutes. To Hrebienok, take the funicular from Starý Smokovec.
What is the largest waterfall of the Studený potok?
The Obrovský vodopád, which drops about 20 meters between two rocks and can be seen from the Magistrála Tatranská bridge.
Can you see the Studený potok waterfalls in winter?
Yes. The trail from Hrebienok stays open, and parts of the falls often freeze. Use footwear suitable for snow and ice.