Alongside Kriváň, Baranec rises above Liptovský Mikuláš and dominates the city panorama.
It is one of the most visited peaks in the Western Tatras and the entire Liptov region. As the
third-highest peak in the Western Tatras, it offers a truly rewarding hike. Baranec has an
altitude of 2,184 m above sea level and can be climbed all year round from Žiar Valley
(Žiarska dolina) and via the cottage.
With only Bystrá and Jakubina standing higher in the Western Tatras, the summit offers far-
reaching views of Baníkov, Tri kopy, Plačlivé, and Ostrý Roháč – part of the Roháče ridge –
as well as a sweeping panorama of Liptov. These views make Baranec one of the most
popular climbs in the Western Tatras. At its summit stands a pillar bearing the Slovak
national emblem.
How to get there?
There are several trails to choose from. If you choose the yellow trail, you will reach the
summit in 2.5 hours. The trail begins at the parking lot at the entrance to Žiar Valley. From
there it follows the yellow trail, climbing steeply through forest and dwarf pine vegetation until
it emerges above the tree line at the Holý vrch junction, which offers magnificent views over
Liptov. Walking along the rocky path, you will pass through beautiful mountain meadows with
views of Štrbavý vrch, Mládky, and Malý Baranec on your right, and in the distance the
panorama of the Tatras dominated by Kriváň. The entire route, including the return via Holý
vrch, takes around five hours.
If you prefer not to hike the same way up and down, you can opt for a circuit that includes a
stop at the cottage.
Seasonal closure
Neither the ascent to Baranec nor the circular route through Žiar Valleyis closed, even in
winter.
Parking
There is a paid parking lot in Žiar Valley with sufficient capacity.