Around the Great and Small Pond Cauldrons
Around the Great and Small Pond Cauldrons
4.7
(69)
462
hikers
06:01
13.5km
700m
Hiking
Hike a difficult 8.4-mile route around the Great and Small Pond Cauldrons in Karkonosze National Park, gaining 2285 feet.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment that may be dangerous
A part of this route comprises technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience may be required.
After 2.66 km for 1.91 km
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
2.65 km
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
5.02 km
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Tip by
5.66 km
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Tip by
8.66 km
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Tip by
11.8 km
Highlight • Waterfall
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Tip by
13.5 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.73 km
4.59 km
1.91 km
711 m
545 m
Surfaces
6.96 km
3.15 km
1.91 km
957 m
454 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,430 m)
Lowest point (760 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Thursday 7 May
5°C
1°C
12 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 6.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
While the komoot tour duration is approximately 6 hours, the trail research suggests a typical walking time of 5 to 6 hours for the 12.7 km route with a significant elevation gain. This duration can vary based on your fitness level and how often you stop to enjoy the views.
Given its 'difficult' rating, significant elevation gain of nearly 700 meters, and a walking time of 5-6 hours, this hike is generally not recommended for beginners or families with young children. It requires good physical fitness and some hiking experience.
Yes, the route is designed as a tour around the Great and Small Pond Cauldrons, indicating it is a loop trail that brings you back towards your starting point.
Specific parking information isn't provided in the trail data, but hikers typically access trails in Karkonosze National Park from nearby towns like Karpacz. It's advisable to check local resources or the official Karkonosze National Park website for current parking options and trailhead access points.
The terrain is diverse, featuring mountains, rocky paths, and stone sections. You'll also encounter dense forests, picturesque meadows, and potentially some swampy areas. The trail navigates around impressive glacial cirques, offering a varied and engaging hiking experience.
You'll witness the stunning View of Wielki Staw (Great Pond) and View of Maly Staw and Strzecha Akademická Staw (Small Pond), both glacial lakes. The area boasts rich flora, resembling Alpine meadows with colorful flowers in summer. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as chamois and deer, especially in quieter sections.
The safest and most recommended time to hike this route is typically from April to September. During these months, conditions are generally more favorable. Hiking in winter requires appropriate ski equipment due to snow and ice.
Key highlights include the breathtaking View of Wielki Staw and View of Maly Staw and Strzecha Akademická Staw. You'll also pass by the Strzecha Akademicka Mountain Hut, a great spot for rest, and the scenic Wild Waterfall (Dziki Wodospad). Part of the route follows the historic Bronek Czech road (closed in spring).
Yes, this route intersects with several other well-known paths within the Karkonosze National Park. Sections of the trail overlap with routes such as Karpacz - Rozdroże koło Spalonej Strażnicy, Karpacz Biały Jar - Kocioł Białego Jaru, Droga Bronka Czecha, the Polish-Czech Friendship Trail, and the Main Sudetes Trail.
Karkonosze National Park has specific regulations regarding dogs on trails. Generally, dogs are allowed on designated trails but must be kept on a leash. It's always best to check the official Karkonosze National Park website (kpn.gov.pl) for the most current rules and any specific restrictions for this particular route.
Yes, Karkonosze National Park is a protected area, and an entrance fee is typically required to access its trails. You may also need to adhere to specific regulations or obtain permits for certain activities. For the most up-to-date information on fees and regulations, please consult the official Karkonosze National Park website at kpn.gov.pl.
Yes, the trail provides access to mountain shelters, notably the Strzecha Akademicka Mountain Hut. These shelters offer opportunities for rest, refreshment, and sometimes accommodation, making them convenient stops during your hike.
A sweaty tour because of the altitude difference and the stony paths that were very difficult to walk. But the views from the edge of the Kocioł Małego Stawu (Kocioł Małego Stawu) basin were unique and made up for all the effort!