Sokolia Dolina is part of the internal gorges group in the Slovak Paradise in Tatra Mountains. Discovered relatively late in April 1910, it was traversed simultaneously from both directions, making it the last valley to be uncovered. For a long time, it hid a precious treasure: the 75-meter Veil Waterfall (Závojový vodopád), the highest waterfall in the Slovak Paradise.
As you might expect, the trail leads along the waterfall, climbing metal ladders, bridges, and steps, all the way up 75 meters.
Duration: 1h 18min, Distance: 3.1km, Ascent: 327m + Return approx. 2 hours
- Parking fee: €3, Entry to the Slovak Paradise: €1.5
- Don’t forget about insurance when hiking in the Slovak mountains
- Sokolia Dolina is a one-way trail
- For information on other valleys and the Slovak Paradise, click here
However, the waterfall isn’t just a straight vertical drop. It consists of five cascades from the Sokoliho stream, with the highest being 20 meters. The name of the waterfall refers to the water curtains that form at certain levels. The passage through the wall of the waterfall has been possible since 1981 when a system of ladders and bridges was installed. Before that, the trail followed a different route.
Many people think that Sokolia Dolina, hidden deep within the Slovak Paradise, is one of the wildest local gorges. It’s a one-way trail, with challenges similar to other valleys, although the ladders go higher. It’s a unique place with incredible natural beauty, which is why it’s part of the „Kysel” nature reserve, boasting the highest, fifth-degree protection.
The valley itself may not be long, but reaching it and completing the route will likely take a full day. To avoid aimless forest runs and see other ravines simultaneously, we suggest the following route. The route is visualized on the map at the beginning and passes through these heavenly spots: Podlesok – Prielom Hornádu – Kláštorská roklina – Kláštorisko – Sokolia dolina – Podlesok
References:
- http://www.slovenskyraj.sk/strediska/sdolina/cz.html
- https://pl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sokolia_dolina
