Dolinka Spadowa is a hidden gem of the High Tatras in Slovakia — a small hanging valley cut off from the neighbouring Ciężka Valley (Česká dolina) by a tall, steep rock threshold. Its name comes from the Podhale dialect word 'spady', meaning just such a threshold. This is a place almost exclusively for mountaineers, far removed from busy tourist trails.

The valley is ringed by impressive rock faces: Ciężka Turnia, Niżnie Rysy, Spadowa Kopa and Żabi Szczyt Wyżni. It stretches roughly 800 m from the base of the threshold to the opposite walls, with the charming Spadowy Kociołek cirque hidden in its upper part. Views are relatively intimate — surrounded by rocky massifs, the valley gives a real sense of remoteness and wilderness. In winter, the threshold transforms into spectacular ice falls, usually in two sections, with inclinations reaching up to 90° in the upper part — a true feast for ice climbers.

• From Ciężki Staw lake via Zmarzły Kocioł and Niżnia Spadowa Przełączka — easiest approach, grade 0 on the Tatra scale, approx. 1 hour.
• From Ciężki Staw directly up the threshold — grade I on the Tatra scale, approx. 45 min.
• In winter via the central ice fall — 6 rope lengths, for experienced climbers only.

• No marked tourist trail leads through Dolinka Spadowa — access is intended for mountaineers only.
• The valley lies in Slovakia within the Tatra National Park (TANAP) — Slovak park regulations apply.
• It forms the shortest link between Morskie Oko lake and Ciężka Valley.

The valley's first recorded visitors were Janusz Chmielowski and his companions guided by the Bachleda family — while its first winter crossing had to wait until 1 January 1935, when Zofia Wysocka and Stefania Bernadzikiewicz made the trip.