At 1171 metres, Mogielica is the highest peak in the Beskid Wyspowy range — and it more than earns that title. Its rounded, dome-like summit, affectionately called Kopa (the Mound) by locals, rises dramatically above the surrounding hills, rewarding every hiker with some of the finest panoramas in the entire Beskids.
From the summit observation tower and the scattered alpine meadows across the massif, you can take in a sweeping arc of scenery: the Tatra Mountains, Gorce, Pieniny, Beskid Sądecki and the whole island-like landscape of Beskid Wyspowy spread out below. The Stumorgi meadow on the south-western ridge — once a vast shepherd's pasture of over 50 hectares — is slowly being reclaimed by forest, but remains a stunning viewpoint. In winter, the massif holds snow exceptionally well, making it a favourite destination for cross-country skiers.
How to reach the summitJust a few dozen metres from the top, a metal cross dedicated to Pope John Paul II marks the spot where he hiked several times before becoming pope — the inscription reads: 'In the face of the beauty of the mountains I feel that He is... and then I begin to pray.'