Žiarska hoľa (1841 m a.s.l.) is one of those rare Low Tatras summits that rewards the effort with sweeping panoramas and genuine solitude — no crowds, just wide alpine meadows and mountain silence. This shapely, grass-covered dome rises in a lateral ridge branching southward from the main Low Tatras crest, separating the Vajsková and Ľomnica valleys.

The summit itself is a smooth, rounded dome of alpine grassland — a perfect vantage point over the highest peaks of the Low Tatras stretching across the Ľomnica Valley. The western and eastern flanks drop steeply, cut by gullies and ravines, partly covered in dwarf pine. In winter and spring the massif is heavily prone to avalanches. On the southern ridge, at around 1700 m a.s.l., you will pass a cluster of rock outcrops known as Bosorky, adding a touch of drama to the landscape.

• Črmné (mouth of Vajsková Valley) — yellow trail, via Strmý vrštek, sedlo pod Žiarom and Žiar — approx. 4 h 30 min ascent, 3 h 50 min descent, demanding

• The yellow trail across the Žiarska hoľa ridge is closed every year from 16 October to 30 June for nature protection — plan your visit between July and mid-October.
• The massif above approx. 1500 m is protected within the Skalka nature reserve.
• Brown bears and chamois inhabit the area — keep a respectful distance.
• Due to the long approach and the seasonal trail closure, this peak sees very few visitors — be self-sufficient.

On 8 March 1965, an avalanche released from the Žiarska hoľa massif killed 16 forestry workers in the nearby Kulichova valley — a sobering reminder of the serious avalanche hazard in this area outside the summer season.