The name 'Krowiarki' is historically derived from the term 'krowiarze', referring to the local herdsmen who drove cattle through this pass to high-altitude pastures.
It is the highest mountain pass in Poland that is accessible by a public road.
The pass serves as a crucial habitat for large carnivores, including lynx and wolves, which traverse the surrounding national park borders.
It marks a significant climatic divide, often experiencing vastly different wind speeds and cloud cover compared to the lower valleys on either side.
The location provides a rare vantage point where one can observe the tectonic transition between the Magura Nappe and the Fore-Magura units.
Przełęcz Krowiarki is a high-altitude mountain pass located at 1,012 meters above sea level within the Babia Góra National Park. It serves as the primary gateway for hikers ascending Babia Góra, the highest peak of the Beskids, via the red-marked Main Beskid Trail. The pass acts as a geographical divide between the Orava-Podhale region and the Zawoja valley. The area is characterized by dense coniferous forests that transition into alpine meadows. Visitors utilize the pass as a strategic starting point for both the summit trek to Diablak and the eastward ridge towards Polica. The site maintains a year-round open status for hikers, though severe winter conditions often necessitate specialized alpine equipment.
The wooden information platform at the parking area, providing an unobstructed view toward the Orava Beskids.
Bring layers even in summer, as temperatures at the pass can drop significantly compared to the surrounding villages.
Ensure you have a physical map, as cellular reception can be intermittent in the deeper sections of the ascent.
Start your hike at daybreak to avoid the frequent afternoon summer thunderstorms common in this range.
Attempting to climb to the summit of Babia Góra without proper mountain footwear or when weather warnings are issued.
Stick strictly to marked trails to protect the fragile alpine ecosystem and avoid disturbing local wildlife.
