The best cycling routes in Zakopane and Kościelisko

Are you planning a cycling trip to the Tatra Mountains? Zakopane and Kościelisko offer dozens of picturesque cycling routes – from family-friendly and intermediate to extreme MTB trails. Below you will find an overview of the most interesting routes and information about new cycling investments in the region.

Easy and family-friendly cycling routes in Zakopane

Ideal for families with children, beginners and those looking for peaceful routes with beautiful views.

Cycling route: Zakopane – Kościelisko – Chochołowska Valley – Zakopane (18 km)
An asphalt loop of approx. 18 km, leading through the picturesque surroundings of Siwa Polana and the Chochołowska Valley. Travel time: approx. 2 hours. Ideal for a family cycling trip with a view of the Tatra Mountains.

Route: Krupówki – Antałówka – Jaszczurówka – Krzeptówki (10–12 km)
The route leads through the centre of Zakopane and the Tatra monuments. A combination of asphalt and dirt roads – ideal for a recreational ride of approx. 10–12 km (time: 1.5 hours).

Route: Kościeliska Valley (12 km)
A simple trail approx. 12 km long, travel time: 1–2 hours. The route runs through forest landscapes with slight elevation differences – perfect for families with children and people seeking contact with nature.

Intermediate and mountain bike trails – for the ambitious

If you are looking for challenges and interesting views, the following trails offer more elevation and varied terrain.

Route: Droga pod Reglami – Kościelisko (18 km)
A 18-kilometre route, duration: 3 hours, elevation: approx. 400 metres. It combines asphalt and gravel, leads through forests, shepherd's huts and viewpoints of the Tatra Mountains. A good place to start your adventure with mountain routes.

Route: Zakopane – Witów – Dzianisz – Gubałówka (30 km)
A more difficult route, 30 km long with an elevation gain of approx. 300 m. It leads through Kościelisko and Witów to Gubałówka. Technical descents and fantastic panoramas – ideal for intermediate cyclists.

Route: Siwa Polana – Polana Chochołowska (6 km)
A shorter section (approx. 6 km) leading along asphalt and forest roads. Best in spring – the route is famous for its carpets of crocuses and beautiful views. Travel time: approx. 1 hour.

Extreme and MTB routes in the Tatra Mountains

For experienced cyclists looking for difficult, technical sections and mountain challenges.

MTB route: Kuźnice – Kalatówki – Giewont (1.5 km)
A short, technical route on rocky ground. Only for people with MTB experience. Requires good physical condition and appropriate equipment.

MTB route: Dolina Suchej Wody – Murowaniec (6.5 km)
A demanding 6.5 km section with an elevation gain of nearly 500 m. Technical riding on a forest trail – an excellent training route for professionals.

New cycling routes and investments in the Zakopane region

The ‘Bike'owe Zakopane’ project – what will be built?

Zakopane and Kościelisko are planning to build new cycle routes:

26 km of transport routes in Zakopane
45.5 km of recreational routes in Zakopane
25 km of recreational routes in Kościelisko
6.7 km of extreme routes in Zakopane
33 km of extreme trails in Kościelisko
14.5 km of museum trails
1 km of night trails

In winter, some of these paths will be converted into cross-country skiing trails, allowing the region to offer active recreation all year round.

A bicycle town in the centre of Zakopane
A bicycle town is to be built on Zamoyskiego Street – a recreational space for children and families with mini bicycle trails, a playground and a relaxation area. The project is financed under the MIRS programme.

Planned trails in Kościelisko and connection with Slovakia
The municipality of Kościelisko is planning new trails:

Single tracks and family loops
The Roztoki–Płazówka route
Connection via Molkówka with the Slovak cycling infrastructure
Integration with the Trail around the Tatra Mountains and Velo Dunajec routes
The first projects are planned after 2026.

Why is it worth cycling in Zakopane and Kościelisko?

Zakopane and Kościelisko are not only mountain hiking trails – they are also an ideal place for active cycling holidays. Whether you are looking for an easy cycling route with children or a technical downhill mountain bike trail, you will find something for yourself here.

Book your stay in Kościelisko online and hit the cycling trails!

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