From Jasná to Dereše

Dereše is a mountain situated in the highest portion of the Low Tatras ridge. It is one of the few peaks in this mountain range the altitude of which is more than 2,000 metres. In the beginning, the trail is moderate, but its final stage leads through a steep and narrow draw. That is why you need to know how to move in crampons and use an ice axe. Most of the trail is north-facing, so the sun almost never shines there in wintertime. Therefore, the snow in this place is often powdery. In other parts of the valley, however, its surface is changed by the sun. Such shaded and steep slopes can become very dangerous, especially in December and January, when the sun rays do not fall on them yet. As a result, the snowpack is not stable. Since the steepness of the slope exceeds 35°, it is necessary to watch weather and avalanche forecasts. In addition, you need to consider movement of other skiers as Dereše is very popular with free-riders, who often come here from the nearby ski lift to Chopok.

The route begins in the Jasná ski resort at Pošta Hotel. You will ascend the first few kilometres up the ski run called Brhliská (1,423 m.a.s.l.). While moving on ski slopes, you should always be lined up one behind the other (not next to each other) and respect other skiers. At the upper station of the ski lift to Brhliská, you will get to an open terrain and copy the track of the lift to Derešský Kotol, which is now out of use. In this part of the trail, the slope becomes steeper and there are often snow bumps carved by skiers in the winter season. However, you can still have your skis on. After about 800 metres, you will get above the dwarf pine vegetation zone, where you can enjoy the view of Derešský Kotol and the highest point of the trail. After reaching the last ski lift mast, you will need to turn right and continue the ascent straight along the draw below the peak of Dereše. Here, you will have to take off your skis and attach them to your rucksack. If the snow surface is hard, put on your crampons. Watch out for snow cornices that might form right below the ridge! If the weather is nice, you can admire breath-taking views all around. Watch out for other skiers as the draws coming down from the summit of Dereše are very popular when the ski conditions are good!

When it comes to descents, there are several options. The descent down the steep draw requires advanced off-piste techniques. It is also necessary to bear in mind that the snow in this place can be hard even in the spring. As a result, skiers often have to wait until the afternoon so that they can enjoy skiing on a softer snow surface. Less advanced skiers can continue up to the summit of Chopok and then ski down the groomed piste or choose a shorter and a wider draw.

Vrbické Pleso is a glacial lake and the largest natural lake in the Low Tatras.

By bus: shuttle buses in the Demänovská Valley will take you straight to the bus stop near Grand Hotel.

By car: paid parking lots with limited capacity right at the beginning of the trek. During the peak season, we recommend you to get up earlier so that you avoid traffic jams and find a parking place.

Buffet Bernardino directly on the slope (Brhliská)

There is a diverse range of accommodation available, including the nearest hotels Liptov, Grand, Marmot, Koliba Jasná, Mikulášska Chata as well as the facilities in the Demänovská Valley and the city of Liptovský Mikuláš.

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an exposed, difficult descent

as the ascent is steep, you will get to the ridge in a relatively short time

snow remains here until late spring

spectacular views under good weather conditions

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frequent occurrence of avalanches in winter

too many visitors

draws do not have enough snow when there are north-westerly winds