Gerlach, rising to 2655 m above sea level, is the highest peak in the Tatras, Slovakia and the entire Carpathian mountain range. It is a serious alpine objective that demands respect — but rewards every effort with a sense of achievement and views that stretch across half of Central Europe.

From the summit, a full 360-degree panorama unfolds: virtually every Tatra peak is visible, along with the sub-Tatra basin, Babia Góra, the Low Tatras and Slovak Paradise. On clear days you can spot Hungary's Kékes, the Beskydy mountains in the Czech Republic, Ukrainian peaks and countless Polish summits. In summer the glacial cirques shimmer with turquoise tarns; in autumn golden valleys stretch to the horizon; in winter Gerlach becomes an icy fortress reserved for experienced mountaineers.

• From Sliezsky dom hut via Kvetnica and the Velický couloir — the classic route, secured with chains and iron pegs, approx. 4–5 hrs, moderate/demanding
• Descent via the Batizovský couloir to Batizovská Valley and Batizovské tarn — from there the marked Tatra Magistrale trail leads back, approx. 3–4 hrs
• Vlado Tatarka Route (built 2001) — approach via Gerlachovské sedlo from the Velická Valley side, more technically demanding, less crowded
• Martinka Ridge Route — traverse over Litvorové veže and Zadný Gerlach to the summit, the most exposed option with short climbing and rappelling sections

• Solo ascent without a guide is permitted only for those who have completed an official high-mountain hiking course
• All other visitors must hire a licensed mountain guide — advance booking is strongly recommended in peak season
• The peak lies within the Tatra National Park (TANAP) — an entry fee applies
• Sliezsky dom hut near Velické tarn serves as the main base — accommodation available
• There is no shelter or bivouac on the summit itself

A remarkable historical footnote: between 1949 and 1959 the peak was officially renamed Stalin's Peak — and before that, in 1896, it carried the name of Emperor Franz Joseph I, making its naming history almost as turbulent as the mountain weather.