Pawłowy Grzbiet is the southern ridge of Kriváň, one of the routes that lead to this iconic peak — but here the approach itself is just as rewarding as the summit view. It's a great choice for hikers who want to reach Kriváň at a calmer pace, away from the crowds on the classic trail.

The ridge rises above the former Pawłowa Polana meadow, now completely overgrown, and separates the Važecká Valley from the Great Kriváň Gully. The landscape is classic High Tatras high-mountain terrain — rocky ridgelines, sweeping views into the valleys on both sides, and a real sense of openness throughout the hike. In spring and autumn the ridge tends to be quiet and windy, summer brings beautiful views of Kriváň and neighboring peaks, while winter conditions demand experience and proper preparation due to the exposed terrain.

How to reach the summit

• Junction at Jamské pleso (Jamský Pond) — blue trail, via Pawłowy Grzbiet and the junction below Kriváň up to the summit, ascent 3:45 h, descent 2:50 h, demanding route, partly exposed

Practical information

• The route passes through Daxnerovo sedlo (with three separate saddles) and Malý Kriváň before reaching the main ridge
• Below the ridge lies an extensive moraine field known as Jamy — a distinctive feature of this part of the Tatras
• The name 'Pawłów Grzbiet' found in some sources is incorrect — the proper form is Pawłowy Grzbiet

The ridge takes its name from Pawłowa Polana, a former mountain pasture now fully reclaimed by dwarf pine and forest — a quiet trace of the old pastoral life once carried out in these mountains.