The lake's name translates to 'Black Pond,' derived from the dark color of the water caused by its significant depth and the shadow cast by the surrounding peaks.
Czarny Staw is significantly colder and less biologically diverse than the neighboring Morskie Oko due to its higher elevation.
The lake is a primary habitat for the Tatra chamois, which are frequently spotted on the surrounding rocky slopes.
The water clarity allows visibility to depths of up to 12 meters under optimal weather conditions.
The lake basin was carved by glacial erosion during the Pleistocene epoch.
It is the starting point for one of the most physically demanding mountain trails in the Polish Tatras.
Czarny Staw pod Rysami is a high-altitude alpine lake located at an elevation of 1,583 meters above sea level within the Tatra National Park. It is situated in a glacial cirque directly beneath the Rysy massif, the highest peak in Poland. The lake reaches a maximum depth of 76.4 meters, making it the second-deepest lake in the Tatra Mountains. Its waters are categorized as oligotrophic, characterized by extreme clarity and a deep blue to black hue caused by its depth and the surrounding rock walls. The lake serves as the primary gateway for mountaineers attempting to summit the Polish side of Rysy. It is located approximately 200 meters above Morskie Oko, to which it is connected by a steep hiking trail. The area is subject to strict environmental regulations due to its protected status in the Tatra National Park.
The northern shore of the lake, looking south toward the peaks of Rysy and Niżnie Rysy.
Wear sturdy, broken-in mountain boots with high ankle support as the terrain consists of uneven stone steps.
Bring layers of windproof clothing, as temperatures near the lake are significantly lower than in the valley and weather changes rapidly.
Start your ascent early in the morning to avoid the peak congestion of hikers arriving from the Morskie Oko basin.
Attempting the ascent during high wind or thunderstorm warnings; wearing inadequate footwear like sandals or sneakers.
The trail to the lake may be closed or restricted in late autumn and winter due to high avalanche risk and extreme icing.
Strictly follow marked trails to protect alpine flora; carrying out all trash is mandatory; silence is requested to minimize impact on local wildlife.
