Hala Kondratowa-Giewont-Dolina Strążyska

In Zakopane tourists' schedule, Giewont trip is a particularly popular one. Although the walk does not take too long, since Giewont is located relatively close to Zakopane, the altitude difference makes it a little more difficult, demanding overall better physical condition. We must take note that the red trail between Grzybowiec and Wyżnia Kondracka Przełęcz is closed from december 1 to may 15. The blue trail leads from Kuźnice to the summit. Initially we go by the rocky path leading to Kalatówki, to decide near ticket booth if we take a shorter variant around Górski PTTK Hotel on Kalatówki. After around 1,5 hour from Kuźnice start, we get to the PTTK Shelter on Kondratowa Glade. Next, keeping to the right side of the clearing, we ascend slightly to get to Piekiełko Valley after dozen or so minutes. Here begins a steep and demanding Kondracka Pass approach, which is also a convenient connection with Małej Łąki Valley and starting point to Kopa Kondracka (yellow signs).

After reaching the ridge, we turn right and, still going higher, we arrive at Wyżnia Kondracka Przełęcz. Here branches the red trail to Strążyska Valley. To reach the summit, we follow the blue signs. The path to top dome of Giewont is equipped with climbing chains. Being a one-way trail, it's shaped in a form of loop to avoid tourists passing each other. At this point we must remember that Giewont peak is extremely exposed to lightning strikes, because of the cross standing on it.

Ater descending from the peak to trail crossing on Wyśnia Kondracka Przełęcz, we turn right and begin walking towards Grzybowiec, following red signatures. When we reach the forest area, we pass another trail crossing from where the black signs lead us to Mała Łąką Valley. Several dozen meters after the crossing we get to the foresty Grzybowiec Pass, where the trail goes downhill and by steep, often slippery path it leads us to Strążyska Valley.