Waligóra: Discovering the Heart of the Kamienne Mountains
Waligóra, rising to 936 meters above sea level, ranks 19th in height in the Polish Crown of Mountains. The shortest route to the summit takes only 30 minutes. It may not sound very impressive, right? However, those who have conquered Waligóra know that the numbers do not fully capture the challenge and intensity of this ascent. The yellow trail to the summit of Waligóra is one of the steepest climbs in the entire Sudetes! Read on to discover why Waligóra is so special!
Table of contents:
- Waligóra: The Highest Peak of the Kamienne Mountains – Location and Natural Treasures
- Discover Trails to Waligóra
- Conquer Waligóra: The Challenge of the “Wall of Tears” Trail
- PTTK Andrzejówka Shelter – A Great Base for Exploring the Kamienne Mountains
- Where Can I Find the Stamp from the Summit of Waligóra?
- Parking Near Trails to Waligóra
Waligóra: The Highest Peak of the Kamienne Mountains – Location and Natural Treasures
Waligóra, located at an altitude of 936 meters above sea level, is the highest peak of the Kamienne Mountains, which are part of the Central Sudetes. It is situated on the Polish-Czech border, within the Wałbrzych Sudetes Landscape Park, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and climbers.
Waligóra is located in the Lower Silesian Voivodeship, near the towns of Unisław Śląski, Wałbrzych, and Rybniczka. It is part of the Suchy Mountains range, which is characterized by steep slopes and deep valleys. The summit offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and on clear days, you can even see the distant Krkonošsko Mountains.
In spring and summer, the area is filled with blooming plants, including many rare and protected species, making it a paradise for botanists and nature lovers. With its biodiversity and natural beauty, Waligóra is a unique place on the map of the Sudetes.
Discover Trails to Waligóra
There are several trails leading to Waligóra. We can start the hike from Sokołowsko, choosing a large loop through Radosno Castle, or opt for a shorter route from the PTTK Andrzejówka Shelter. Although the summit may not seem impressive, the ascent from the shelter via the yellow trail, aptly called the “Wall of Tears,” is quite a challenge. This very steep section of the trail is particularly difficult and dangerous in winter or after rain. Before heading out on the trail, make sure you are properly equipped!
Loop: Schronisko Andrzejówka – Waligóra – Rozdroże pod Waligórą – Schronisko Andrzejówka
A steep ascent with an elevation gain of 136 meters over a short distance. A gentle, calm descent from the summit – I recommend this option, your knees will thank you.
Loop: Schronisko Andrzejówka – Waligóra – Schronisko Andrzejówka
Intense ascent and descent from the summit with an elevation gain of 136 meters over a short distance. The route is demanding but the shortest. Not recommended after rainfall or in winter.
Loop: Sokołowsko – Zamek Radosno – Schronisko Andrzejówka – Waligóra – Zameczek Friedenstein – Sokołowsko
This is a large loop passing through Radosno Castle, the shelter, and the steepest section of the yellow trail.
Loop: Schronisko Andrzejówka – Rozdroże pod Waligóra – Waligóra – Rozdroże pod Waligórą – Schronisko Andrzejówka
This is the easiest option to reach Waligóra, bypassing the yellow trail and the Wall of Tears. The ascent is gentle, and the trail is only 4.6 km long.
Conquer Waligóra: The Challenge of the “Wall of Tears” Trail
At the summit of Waligóra, you cannot expect spectacular views because it is heavily forested, and the summit marker is easy to miss. There is a stone pillar with the name of the peak and its elevation engraved on it; when you see it, you are already there. However, the lack of panoramas is compensated by the satisfaction of conquering the challenging yellow trail, known as the “Wall of Tears.”
I encourage you to take on this unique mountain challenge and experience what Waligóra has to offer!
PTTK Andrzejówka Shelter – A Great Base for Exploring the Kamienne Mountains
The PTTK Andrzejówka Shelter is an excellent base for exploring the Kamienne Mountains. With a large parking lot, numerous accommodation options, and delicious cuisine that meets everyone’s expectations, it is the perfect place to stay overnight and start hiking trails. The shelter is also a great spot to refuel during your hike.
The building, which has been hosting tourists since 1933, has a rich history and offers a cozy atmosphere, perfect for relaxing after a challenging climb. Andrzejówka is a must-visit on the map of any Kamienne Mountains enthusiast, whether for a short break or a longer stay. Make sure to include this place in your hiking plan!
Practical information:
- Parking: A large parking lot available for guests.
- Accommodation: The shelter offers numerous accommodation options, ensuring a comfortable stay.
- Cuisine: The restaurant serves delicious meals that will satisfy every taste.
- Location: Perfect for starting many hiking trails in the Kamienne Mountains.
When planning your route in the Kamienne Mountains, it is worth adding the PTTK Andrzejówka Shelter as one of the key points on the map!
Where Can I Find the Stamp from the Summit of Waligóra?
The stamp from the summit of Waligóra, is not available directly at the summit. However, there are several points nearby where you can obtain it. Here are the places where you can find the stamp:
PTTK Andrzejówka Shelter – Address: Rybnica Leśna 27, 58-350, Poland
Gospoda Sudecka – Address: ul. Turystyczna 13, Grzmiąca
Gościniec Kowalova – Address: Wczasowa 47, 58-350 Kowalowa, Poland
PTTK „Ziemi Wałbrzyskiej” Branch – Address: Wałbrzych, Rynek 9
RADOSNO Recreation Center – Address: Sokołowsko, ul. Główna 5
Each of these places offers a stamp that confirms the summit of Waligóra has been conquered, adding it to your Polish Crown of Mountains collection. When planning your hike, it’s worth including these spots as stops on your route to collect all the necessary stamps!
Parking Near Trails to Waligóra
The most popular parking spot is the PTTK Andrzejówka Shelter, which serves as an excellent base for the trails leading to Waligóra. In addition to this location, there are several other parking options worth considering when planning your hike to this picturesque peak.
Here is a list of other parking spots along the trails to Waligóra:
PTTK Andrzejówka Shelter (free) – coordinates: 50.68555820833503, 16.2778272336078
Small parking near the pond (free) – coordinates: 50.68700026731206, 16.24605876769564
Parking near Zameczek Friedenstein (free) – coordinates: 50.67983883025246, 16.240545034414918
Parking in the center of Sokołowsko (free) – coordinates: 50.6869931833679, 16.237312977880546
When planning your trip to Waligóra, it’s worth considering these parking options to choose the most convenient starting point for your route. Regardless of your choice, each of these locations provides easy access to the beautiful trails in the Kamienne Mountains.
If my article helped you plan your route and gather the necessary information, I would be grateful for your support in making my dreams come true by buying me a coffee!
