The lake is the site of the Symbolical Cemetery of the Victims of the High Tatras, established in 1940.
The first tourist mountain hut at this site was built in 1879, known as the Majláthova chata.
The water depth reaches a maximum of 17 meters.
The lake's surface area covers approximately 6.88 hectares.
The Symbolical Cemetery displays over 300 commemorative plaques honoring mountaineers who died in the Tatra mountains.
The surrounding basin is a habitat for the Tatra chamois and marmots.
Popradské pleso is a glacial mountain lake situated at an elevation of 1,494 meters in the High Tatras, Slovakia. It serves as a central hub for hikers in the Mengusovská Valley, providing access to Rysy and Kôprovský štít. The lake features two primary accommodation facilities, Majlathova chata and Chata pri Popradskom plese. The surrounding terrain consists of granite massifs and coniferous forests typical of the Tatra National Park. As of June 2026, the area remains a primary transit point for high-altitude trekking routes. The lake is one of the few in the High Tatras accessible via a paved road, which remains restricted to authorized vehicles. Its waters are categorized as oligotrophic, characterized by low nutrient levels and high transparency.
The eastern shore looking toward the Ostrva peak and the reflective water surface.
Bring a windbreaker even in summer as temperatures drop rapidly with elevation.
Start the ascent early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms common in the High Tatras.
Carry specialized trekking footwear with high ankle support for the rocky paths.
Do not attempt the hike in standard sneakers; the terrain is composed of loose granite debris.
Higher mountain trails leading from the lake are subject to seasonal closures for winter safety.
Stay on marked trails to protect the fragile alpine tundra; pack out all trash.
