Veľký Kriváň (1,708 m a.s.l.) is the highest peak of the Malá Fatra mountain range — and the one that gives the Krivánska Fatra its name. Its broad, open summit rises above the dwarf pine belt and offers a sweeping 360-degree panorama that makes every step of the climb worthwhile.

The summit itself is a grassy, meadow-like dome scattered with rocky debris and bilberry patches. On a clear day the view is simply staggering: Babia Hora and Pilsko in the Orava Beskids, the West and High Tatras, Veľký Choč, Lysá Hora in the Moravian-Silesian Beskids, the ridges of Veľká Fatra and the Low Tatras, and countless other peaks stretching to every horizon. In summer the alpine meadows are lush and colourful; in autumn the bilberry turns the slopes deep red; in winter a proper winter kit is needed for the exposed ridge.

• From Vrátna chalet — green trail, approx. 2 hrs 30 min., moderate difficulty
• By chairlift to Snilovské Sedlo (1,524 m a.s.l.), then green trail to the summit — approx. 45 minutes from the top station, easy to moderate

• The entire area is within Malá Fatra National Park — follow park regulations at all times.
• A chairlift operates from the valley to Snilovské Sedlo, making a one-way or return trip much more accessible.
• The neighbouring peaks Pekelník (1,609 m) to the west and Chleb (1,647 m) to the east can be combined into a rewarding ridge traverse.

The whole Krivánska Fatra sub-range takes its name from this summit — a fitting tribute to the peak that reigns over the entire massif.