The gallery was historically used for the extraction of gold, silver, and copper ores.
The tunnels were unearthed and revitalized for tourism purposes after being largely forgotten following the cessation of mining activities.
The tunnel name refers to the local legend of brown bears hibernating in the cave entrance during the winter.
Geologically, the site is situated in the crystalline core of the Western Tatras.
The temperature inside the gallery remains constant year-round, typically hovering around 6 to 8 degrees Celsius.
Medvedia štôlňa (Bear Tunnel) is a historical mining gallery located in the Žiarska Valley in the Low Tatras. The site serves as a museum highlighting the history of gold and ore extraction in the Liptov region. Visitors traverse an accessible underground tunnel system that reaches depths of approximately 550 meters. The tour provides insight into medieval mining methods, including original extraction techniques and the geology of the surrounding mountains. The site is managed under the Podzemné atrakcie Liptov initiative. The entrance is situated at the trailhead leading toward the Žiarska chata mountain hut.
At the arched stone entrance of the tunnel, framed by the surrounding forest and mountains.
Bring a warm jacket or fleece regardless of the outside temperature, as the tunnel remains cold throughout the summer.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes to navigate the potentially wet and uneven gallery floor.
Combine your visit with a hike to the nearby Žiarska chata for a full-day experience in the valley.
Attempting to enter the tunnel without a guide or during off-season months when the entrance is gated for safety.
Closed during the winter season; usually operates from spring through early autumn.
Helmets are provided and must be worn inside the tunnels; touching the walls is discouraged to protect the rock face.
