Kościelec (2155 m a.s.l.) is one of the most iconic peaks in the High Tatras — its sharp pyramidal silhouette towers above the Gąsienica Valley and is instantly recognisable from almost every vantage point in the area. Whether you are drawn by the dramatic scenery, the sweeping views, or the satisfying challenge of a technical summit hike, Kościelec delivers on every front.

The peak rises a striking 533 metres above the surface of Czarny Staw Gąsienicowy (Black Lake), presenting an impressive granite wall to the east. The mountain is built from layers of granite and is home to a rare flora — among the plants found here is the extremely scarce large-headed saussurea, found in Poland only in the Tatras, and the highest-altitude tree-form spruce in the Polish Tatras grows on its slopes. In summer the ridge basks in sunshine; in autumn the surrounding alpine meadows turn golden; in winter the summit becomes the preserve of experienced mountaineers. As the composer and mountaineer Mieczysław Karłowicz once observed, Kościelec is the only peak from which every single lake of the Gąsienica Valley can be seen at once.

• Karb Pass (reached from the Gąsienica Valley via the trail from above Czarny Staw or the blue trail from the path to Świnica Pass) — black trail, approx. 50 min ascent from the pass, 40 min descent, demanding

• The trail has no fixed iron holds or chains — a vertical rock step of approx. 7 m (grade 0+ on the Polish mountaineering scale) requires solid physical ability and care.
• Warning signs at Karb Pass note that the trail is considered difficult and dangerous on wet or icy rock.
• The peak lies within Tatra National Park — a valid park entry ticket is required.

In 1911, Mariusz Zaruski and Stanisław Zdyb made the first ski ascent of Kościelec — a milestone in the history of Polish ski mountaineering.