The Velky Sokol (Great Sokol) karst valley is the most beautiful and wildest valley in the Slovak Paradise. It might be a bit off the beaten path, but trust me, it’s worth every minute spent there. So, if you’re looking for a fantastic trip, let me guide you through the ins and outs of this breathtaking trail.
Essential Info for Your Trip
Before you set off on your trip, here’s some essential information you need to know:
- Parking fee: 3 €
- Entry to the Slovak Paradise: 1.5 €
- I can tell you that it’s a good idea to consider insurance, as it’s easy to get injured in this area
- The trail through Velky Sokol is one-way only
- For descriptions of other valleys and practical info about the Slovak Paradise, click here
A Bit of History and What to Expect
The first crossing of the gorge happened in 1898, led by M. Roth. You’ll find a small metal plaque at the beginning of the valley to commemorate this feat. It’s interesting to note that the hiking trail was only established in 1956 and was redesigned 23 years later.
Now, I believe it’s essential to mention that waterproof shoes are a must on this trail, and having a spare pair of socks in your backpack can save the day. The risk of getting wet is quite high – if you thought Dry Bale was messy, wait till you experience Velky Sokol. But let me say, it’s still the most beautiful paradise valley out there!
As you journey through this stunning valley, remember that it’s a one-way trip. You can either return along the parallel red trail or go down the forest path to the village of Podlesok.
Description of the Trail To Velky Sokol
Estimated Time: 2h, Distance: 5.5 km, Ascent: 434 m + Return about 2h 45 min
The valley is situated near the Pila hamlet, almost 6 km west of the campsite. Although you can follow the green trail from the campsite along the Wielka Biała Woda Valley, it’s not that interesting, and it takes about 75 minutes. It mostly leads along an asphalt road, so I think it’s better to drive.
I recommend parking your car in the town of Pila and walking for another 30 minutes to where the yellow trail begins. There’s a small parking lot right next to the trail, but be cautious – we’ve seen cars get trapped behind barriers here. Alternatively, you can park at the large Blajzloch car park, a kilometer away, which is free and not visible on maps.
Important Note on Insurance
In the fall of 2019, it wasn’t possible to buy insurance with the admission ticket in Pila. That’s why I strongly suggest getting insured at home or first purchasing insurance at the Sucha Bela parking lot (€ 0.2 per day) before driving to Velky Sokol. Injuries can happen on these trails, and Slovak rescuers’ help can be costly.
The Trail Itself
From the car park, follow the green markers towards the mouth of the Wielki Sokół ravine. It takes around 30 minutes. As you encounter the yellow trails and pass the Sokol forester’s lodge, you’ll notice that the trail remains gentle and calm – not giving any hint of the excitement just around the corner.
About 30 minutes from the forester’s lodge, you’ll start seeing wooden footbridges and fallen trees. No one clears them away, so there’s a bit of chaos. With a stream flowing in the middle, it’s highly likely you’ll splash water on your feet. That’s why I know good shoes with solid, preferably Vibram soles, are crucial for this trail.
The Most Interesting Section
Get ready for the most attractive part of the valley, known as Kamenné Vráta. This area boasts the largest accumulation of rock steps and narrow passages. First, you’ll come across the Small Cascades, which you’ll climb using wooden steps. These cascades are like a prelude to the appearance of the Small Waterfall. Don’t let the name fool you; this waterfall is actually larger than another one called Veľki. Quite a twist, huh?
To cross the Small Waterfall, you’ll find a ladder and a chain on its right side, which lead to a photogenic bridge. The waterfall is 8.5 meters high, and the climb takes just a moment. On the other hand, Veľki Vodopád is „only” 7 meters high. Along the way, you’ll also see the Velke Kaskady.
After the waterfalls, the valley offers a brief respite, but not for long. In my opinion, you’re now entering the most thrilling part of the gorge. It’s here that the walls come so close they’re only an arm’s length apart, and they soar up to 300 meters in places! The gorge narrows, and the path leads along slippery, damp fallen trees. Some are hewn with steps, but it’s not hard to fall.
This amazing section heralds the end of the adventure and the valley. Named after the main explorer of the Slovak Paradise, Martin Roth, it’s called Róthov Roklin.
Wrapping Up the Trip
The gorge ends at a place called Glacka Cesta. Map timestamps may vary, but an efficient hiker should complete the valley in 2h to 2h 30 min. If there are more tourists in the valley, queues for the ladders may extend your hiking time.
From Glacka Cesta, follow the red trail to Malá Poľana – rázc (crossroad with blue). Here, you’ll need to decide whether to return to Pili (1h 50 min) or take the blue trail towards Podlesok (2h). Both trails are gentle and don’t offer any major attractions.
References:
- http://www.slovenskyraj.sk/strediska/vsokol/vsokol.html
- https://turisticky.sk/turistika/velky-sokol/
