The climb to Babia Hora is a relatively demanding hike with an elevation gain of almost 1,000 metres. The hike offers the experience of ascending the highest peak of the Outer Western Carpathians (Vonkajšie Západné Karpaty) and reaching the northernmost viewpoint in Slovakia. The trail mostly follows forest roads and paths. Only the summit section below Babia Hora passes through dwarf pine terrain and mountain meadows.
Babia Hora is exceptional due to the fantastic panoramic views of Orava, the Malá Fatra Mountains, the Tatras and the Polish Beskids. Along the hiking trail from Slaná Voda, there are rest areas with wooden shelters and benches. You will also come across two lookout towers. Along the way, you can also stop at Hviezdoslav’s forest lodge (Hviezdoslavova hájovňa), where the poet sought inspiration.
If you wish to extend the hike, continue along the ridge to the Malá Babia Hora and then descend via the red trail back to the cottage at Slaná Voda.
The Slaná Voda (literally “Salty Water”) area is notable for its unique iodine-bromine mineral springs, which were historically used to treat certain diseases such as goitre, tuberculosis, various skin conditions, and others.

How to get there?
CIRCULAR ROUTE
The whole circuit is just over 19 km long and takes about 7 hours to complete.

Parking
There is paid parking at Slaná voda Cottage.