Mały Kaczy Staw is a small but captivating glacial lake tucked away in the Kačacia Valley in the High Tatras. Measuring just 68 m long and 44 m wide, it punches well above its weight in terms of atmosphere and mountain charm. If you enjoy discovering hidden alpine gems off the beaten path, this is a place worth the effort.

The lake sits west of the much larger Zelené Kačacie pleso, with the neighbouring Litvorová Valley rising gently above it. The surrounding landscape is classic high mountain terrain — rocky slopes, a still mirror of water reflecting the sky, and a deep silence broken only by the mountain breeze. Summer brings vivid greenery and wildflowers, while autumn wraps everything in warm golden tones.

• From Lysá Poľana (north) — blue trail, approx. 3.5 hrs, demanding
• From Zbojnícka Chata hut in Veľká Studená Valley via Prielom pass — blue trail, approx. 3 hrs, demanding
• From Sliezsky dom in Veľická Valley via Poľský hrebeň pass — green trail, then blue trail, approx. 3 hrs, demanding

• Access is permitted only with a licensed mountain guide.
• The lake is accessible seasonally: 16 June to 31 October only.
• The blue trail runs approximately 100 m from the lake, en route to passes Pustá lávka, Východná Železná brána, or Litvorové sedlo.

Local legend has it that a golden duck lays golden eggs here at midnight on Midsummer's Eve — the lake's very name is rooted in this enchanting tale. A little bit of magic to carry with you on the trail.