Zadni Staw Spiski is the highest of the Five Spiš Lakes, sitting at 2,022 metres above sea level in the Slovak High Tatras — a serene, remote tarn that rewards those willing to make the climb. Tucked into the upper reaches of the Malá Studená dolina valley, it lies just to the northeast of its much larger neighbour, Veľké Spišské pleso.

The lake itself is modest in size — just 100 × 45 metres across and roughly 1.5 metres deep — but what it lacks in scale it more than makes up for in atmosphere. The surrounding landscape is quintessentially alpine: bare rock, mountain pine scrub, and in summer, bright patches of high-altitude meadow. Because the water is so shallow, it warms surprisingly quickly on sunny days. In early summer the area may still be dusted with snow, giving it a wild, dramatic feel, while autumn brings golden grasses and exceptionally clear air with stunning views of the ridgelines above.

• Štrbské Pleso or Tatranská Lomnica (Slovakia) — trails leading through Malá Studená dolina valley; moderate to demanding difficulty. Check current TANAP trail markings before setting out, as exact timings depend on your chosen route.

• The lake lies within Tatra National Park (TANAP) — stay on marked trails and do not camp.
• Best visited July–September; trails may be inaccessible or closed in early spring and late autumn.

As the highest point among the Five Spiš Lakes, this quiet tarn offers the satisfying feeling of reaching the very top of the valley — a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path reward with views you won't soon forget.