Banówka (2178 m a.s.l.) is the highest peak in the main ridge of the Western Tatras — a powerful, sprawling summit at the heart of the Roháče range that rewards hikers with one of the finest panoramas in the entire western part of the Tatras. If you are looking for a grand mountain experience away from the tourist crowds of the High Tatras, this is your destination.

The rocky summit opens up to a full 360-degree view stretching across the Western and High Tatras, the nearby valleys, and the Liptov Basin far below. On a clear day you can spot the Malá Fatra, Nízke Tatry, Oravské Beskydy, and even peaks across the border in southern Poland. The northern slopes plunge steeply some 350 metres down into the Spálená Valley, covered with vast scree fields — clear evidence of glacial and nivation sculpting. Summer is perfect for ridge walks, while autumn paints the slopes in warm gold and russet tones.

How to reach the summit

• From the south — from Žiarska chata hut via Príslop — green trail, moderate
• From the west — from Sivý vrch via Brestová and Baníkovské saddle — red ridge trail, moderate
• From the east — from Volovec via Plačlivé and Smutné saddle — red ridge trail, moderate
• From the northeast — from Spálená Valley via Baníkovské saddle — green trail, moderate
• From the village of Jalovec — yellow trail to the Pod Lyscom junction, then blue trail through Parichvost Valley and Baníkovské saddle — moderate

Practical information

• The peak lies within Tatra National Park — park regulations apply
• Žiarska chata mountain hut in the Žiarska Valley serves as a convenient base for the ascent

Standing on the summit of Banówka means standing on the highest point of the entire Western Tatras main ridge — a distinction that makes this climb truly memorable for anyone exploring this quieter, equally stunning corner of the Tatras.