Predný Salatín – Brestová – Sivý Vrch – A Fascinating Ridge Hike to a Rugged Limestone Mountain

In the Roháče region, the route stretches from Mount Predný Salatín, over Brestová (1,902 m), the 1,806-meter-high Zuberec, the 1,753-meter-high Pálenica, and the Pálenica saddle, all the way to Mount Sivý Vrch—the westernmost ridge of the Western Tatras. This ridge lies entirely above the tree line and guarantees a fascinating view. A unique geological remnant of the Tatra Mountains’ tectonic evolution is the descent along the ridge of the limestone mountain Sivý vrch, one of the few remaining regions in the Tatra Mountains where the Mesozoic limestone cover (sediments formed along continental margins during oceanic rifting) has been preserved. Due to the specific geological conditions, the area is home to many species of calcareous flora and fauna. The descent from Sivý vrch along the western ridge passes by the bizarre limestone formations of Radové skaly, featuring an 86-meter-deep crevasse. A real hidden gem.> From the large parking lot in Zverovka Spalená01 (995 m), we head south on the forest road between the two T-bar lifts, walking slightly uphill. At the point where the T-bar lift makes a 90° turn to our right, we leave the forest road. An inconspicuous and unmarked trail leads through the forest, then shortly afterward along the edge of the forest, and then uphill parallel to the T-bar lift. Further along, you’ll find markers to help you navigate. We pass under the chairlift once more until the trail begins a steep ascent through a side valley. Further along, we cross a forest road and follow the trail toward Predný Salatín02 (1,624 m). Once we reach a picnic bench, we continue just a few meters further uphill to the right; crossing meadows, we reach a hilltop with a breathtaking view. From the picnic bench, we continue our hike southward along the gently ascending ridge. Ahead of us, several mountain peaks rise imposingly—these are the ones we’ll be climbing next. But first, we see the chairlift’s mountain station far below us; we pass the signpost and trail leading to the chairlift before continuing along a narrow mountain ridge toward the highest peak, Brestová03 (1,903 m). From there, you can enjoy a wonderful panoramic view across the entire Western Tatras. To the northeast, already in the Polish Tatras, you can even make out the distinctive shape of the popular Giewont mountain (see Tour 71). To the west, you can clearly see how the trail winds gently downhill over the next ridge to the Pálenica saddle. Once there, we continue straight ahead along the ridge, now heading uphill again. The final ascent to the limestone peak of Sivý vrch04 (1,805 m) then demands our full effort and concentration once more. The trail climbs steeply through rocky terrain, and in particularly rocky sections, you’ll need to use your hands for support. We cross the summit heading west and follow the downward path marked with red blazes. The most difficult section of the hike follows: two descents secured with chains, as well as metal steps carved into the rock. Time and again, you have to squeeze through rock crevices to descend to the next level. The path isn’t always easy to find. We slalom our way through the eroded limestone giants. Further down the descent, the route is clear. In the distance, you can already see the solitary rock formation Biela skala; we pass it by and do not take the path leading uphill to the right. We come to a forest road, but immediately leave it again to the left over the small bridge and continue our descent on the path above the forest road. The trail eventually joins the forest road, which in turn ends at the main road. We cross this road and reach parking lot05 (887 m).