Pilsko (1557 m a.s.l.) is the second highest peak in the Silesian-Orava Beskids — a broad, impressive massif that towers nearly 1000 metres above the surrounding valleys. What makes it truly special is its international character: the true summit lies entirely on Slovak territory, while the Polish-Slovak border and the Great European Watershed run along the ridge just 400 metres to the north.

The wide, gently domed summit offers one of the finest panoramas in the Western Carpathians — on a clear day you can see the Tatras, the Western Beskids, the Slovak mountains, and even the eastern peaks of the Sudetes. The upper slopes are covered with natural dwarf pine scrub, while the mountain meadows below shelter rare alpine plants including Swertia perennis, Siberian garlic, and globe flowers. In winter, the northern slopes of Pilsko transform into one of Poland's most popular ski resorts, with nearly 20 km of pistes — the highest-altitude ski resort in the country outside of Kasprowy Wierch.

• Korbielów village — trail via Hala Miziowa meadow hut to Góra Pięciu Kopców, then 400 m to the summit; moderate difficulty; the PTTK mountain hut at Hala Miziowa (approx. 1270 m) is a great rest stop
• From Góra Pięciu Kopców (1543 m, on the border ridge) — short 400 m walk along the yellow border trail to the true Pilsko summit; easy
• From the Slovak side — trail through Mechy from Oravské Veselé; moderate difficulty

• The true summit (1557 m) lies entirely in Slovakia — no border formalities required (Schengen area)
• A field altar and cross stand at the summit, erected by the Slovak village of Mutné; an outdoor mass is held here every July
• The massif is protected: Polish nature reserve Pilsko covers 105 ha (since 1971), the Slovak reserve covers 809 ha
• The broad summit dome can be disorientating in poor visibility — carry a map or GPS
• A chairlift from Korbielów Kamienna to Hala Szczawiny shortens the ascent, especially useful in winter

The peak was first recorded in print in 1721 by Father Gabriel Rzączyński, who was also the first documented person to climb it. Local legend, recorded by the 18th-century mayor of Żywiec, holds that Orava outlaws used to gather here for feasts — a colourful story that may even explain the mountain's name.