The Three Crowns is a distinctive mountain massif located in the Pieniny Mountains, on the border between Poland and Slovakia. It is one of the most recognizable peaks in this part of the Western Carpathians. The name “Three Crowns” comes from three peaks that create a characteristic panoramic view.
The main peak of the Three Crowns reaches a height of about 982 meters above sea level and is the highest point in the entire massif. In addition to it, at the western end of the massif, there is the Niżna Trzy Korony (Lower Three Crowns) peak (945 m above sea level), and at the eastern end – the Płaska Skała (Flat Rock) peak (820 m above sea level). These three peaks form a picturesque view that is one of the most recognizable symbols of the Pieniny Mountains.
Route to the Summit
To reach the summit of the Three Crowns in the Pieniny Mountains, there are several trails that offer varied hiking experiences and breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
One of the popular routes leading to the summit is the Eagle’s Nests Trail, which starts in the villages of Sromowce Niżne or Krościenko nad Dunajcem. This trail leads through the picturesque Homole Gorge, where you can admire rock formations and beautiful views of the Dunajec River. Then the trail leads through forests and meadows, passing numerous viewpoints that offer magnificent panoramas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Upon reaching the summit of the Three Crowns, you can admire the picturesque view of the Dunajec River breaking through the Pieniny Mountains, as well as the nearby Tatra, Gorce, and Beskidy mountains.
Another popular route is the Dunajec Gorge Trail, which starts in Krościenko nad Dunajcem or Szczawnica. This trail follows along the Dunajec River, offering beautiful views of rock formations and cliffs. Along the way, you can stop at a viewing platform, which offers a picturesque view of the Three Crowns and the surrounding mountains. Then the trail leads through forests and meadows, leading up to the PTTK shelter under the Three Crowns. From there, you can continue your hike to the summit of the Three Crowns, where unforgettable views of the Pieniny and Dunajec await.
During a hike on the Three Crowns, you can also admire the rock formations that create the characteristic landscape of this region. Some of them have interesting names, such as Eagle’s Nest or Small Pieniny Cauldron. While hiking the trails, you may also come across other attractions, such as caves or viewpoints, which further enrich the experience of traveling through this picturesque region of the Pieniny Mountains.
How to prepare for a hike in the mountains?
When planning a trip to the Three Crowns in the Pieniny Mountains, it is important to adapt to the weather conditions, as they can be variable and have a significant impact on safety and travel comfort. Here are a few tips on how to adapt to the weather on the Three Crowns:
- Check the weather forecast
- Dress appropriately
- Bring suitable equipment
- Be prepared for changing conditions
- Monitor the weather conditions
Remember that safety is paramount when hiking in the mountains, so always adjust your plans to the current weather conditions and physical abilities.
