The name Włosienica refers to historical grazing practices where sheep were kept in the area.
It is the official end point for the horse-drawn carriage transport service permitted within the Tatra National Park.
The location serves as an emergency staging area for Tatra Volunteer Search and Rescue (TOPR) operations.
Unlike most mountain meadows, the path through the glade is paved, facilitating heavy visitor traffic toward the lake.
The elevation allows for a distinct microclimate, often leading to rapid weather changes compared to the valley floor.
Polana Włosienica is a high-mountain glade located in the Tatra Mountains at an elevation of approximately 1315 meters. It serves as a major transit node and the final stop for horse-drawn carriages approaching Morskie Oko from the Palenica Białczańska side. The area provides direct access to the trailhead leading to the Morskie Oko lake, located about 1.5 kilometers further up the route. Historically, the glade functioned as a grazing site for sheep, but today it serves exclusively as a pedestrian and carriage-stop corridor for hikers. The site offers panoramic views of the surrounding granite peaks of the High Tatras, including the Mięguszowieckie Szczyty. It is positioned along the asphalt road that connects the park entrance to the lake basin.
The elevated curve on the path looking back toward the valley before the final ascent begins.
Use the restroom facilities here before continuing the final incline to the lake, as services are limited near the water.
Stay on the marked path to avoid damaging protected alpine flora in the surrounding meadow.
If you are hiking with small children or elderly companions, consider this the primary turning point if the walk to the lake proves too strenuous.
Do not attempt to pet or interfere with the carriage horses; avoid leaving trash, as the area has no public waste bins.
The horse-drawn carriage service operates depending on snow cover and weather conditions throughout the year.
Strict adherence to Tatra National Park regulations including waste management and maintaining silence; remain on designated paths.
