Climbing Babia Góra - A Memory from the Beskids

The Beskids are the mountains of our childhood.

Back then, they were just there, almost within reach. But we truly got to know them much later, when we lived far away.

The first time I reached the summit of Babia Góra, I thought every other mountain in the world would be easier. I was eleven years old. I still remember the stones on the way up as giant boulders. A short passage up a vertical rock wall, secured with chains and grips, felt - to a child - like joining the best climbers in the world.

Later, there was a time when I would climb - sometimes even run - up Babia Góra several times a year. There are many ways to the top, from almost every side. The hike is simple, and only that short section with chains asks for a bit more fitness and attention. Every other trail is calm - but don’t let that fool you. The highest peak of the Beskids is no place for flip-flops and a casual Sunday walk.

Everything changes if you like winter hikes. Above the line of dwarf pines, the mountain turns into rock and stone, and the wind begins. Finding the right path becomes less obvious. The wind can slow you down, bury the trail, and push temperatures dangerously low. The summit area of Babia Góra is broad. In fog or snowstorms, it’s easy to lose your way - and it’s not rare for mountain rescuers to help stranded hikers here.

The best way to meet Babia Góra? In winter. With an overnight stay at the Markowe Szczawiny shelter. I spent many nights there, years ago, when the hut still had its old wooden interior - the kind that made you feel safe, no matter what the weather was like outside.

As always, we leave the choice of trail and route to you. Everyone sees the mountains a little differently. The real beauty is finding your own paths, your own views - not following someone else’s.

The scale of Babia Góra, the way I saw it as a child, has stayed with me until today. If you go up, do it quietly, in a pair or a small team. Look ahead - but sometimes also turn around and look back at the trail you’ve already left behind. You might be surprised by what you’ll see.

IMPORTANT Babia Góra looks inviting in winter, as the highest summit of the Beskids. Before you go, check the weather. Install the “Ratunek” (Rescue) app on your phone. Bring a backup power bank. Send a message to someone close, telling them where you are going and when you expect to return. If you want, take a look at the winter hiking gear we recommend. But most of all — never compromise on safety.