Mała Krokiew (1365 m a.s.l.) is the lower of two summits in the scenic Krokiew massif, tucked within the sub-alpine zone of the Polish Western Tatras. While the summit itself is off-limits to visitors, the trails crossing its slopes offer a wonderfully peaceful hike through shaded forests and open ridgelines above two beautiful valleys. If you're looking for a quieter corner of the Tatras, this is a great pick.
The peak is built from dark grey platy Triassic dolomites, giving the terrain a rugged, natural feel. Its western slopes drop into the Valley of Białe, while the eastern side descends toward the Bystra Valley. To the north, a shallow saddle called Siwarowe Siodło connects Mała Krokiew to the main Krokiew summit (1378 m); to the south it borders the Biały Ridge and the small peak of Biała Czubka. The area is beautiful year-round — fresh green in spring, cool and shaded in summer, golden with beeches in autumn, and quietly snow-covered in winter.
How to get to the summitThe slopes of Mała Krokiew are closely linked to the legacy of Saint Adam Chmielowski (Brother Albert), who founded a monastery for his order nearby — making a walk here as much a cultural experience as a natural one.