Zakopane has many, well-prepared ski-slopes, of varying difficulty. Beginners should avail of slopes situated close to Wielka Krokiew, na Koziniec or Lipki. More advanced skiers can make use of the ski complex of Nosal, Polana Szymoszkowa and Harenda. There, you’ll find qualified ski and snowboard instructors, as well as cosy restaurants serving regional delicacies. Zakopane’s slopes are patrolled by ski-police, guarding the safety of tourists.
Every real skier should try at least once to ski down Kasprowy Wierch, the peak which has become a symbol of downhill skiing in Poland. Skiers can get to the top by taking the cable car from Kuźnice, changing at Myślenickie Turnie, and by two chair-lifts: the ultra-modern lift at Kocioł Gąsienicowy and the slightly older one, soon to be modernized, at Kocioł Goryczkowy.
Skiing doesn’t have to ba all about slaloming down prepared slopes alongside ski-lifts. More and more people are choosing to ski far from the beaten trail –ski-touring. This is definitely more difficult, but ultimately more satisfying, than traditional skiing. The peace and quiet of the surrounding Tatras, far from queues and ski-lifts, allows for a more intense experience of the beauty of the Tatran Winter. Enthusiasts of cross-country skiing are free to try the easier trails around Zakopane and take in the panorama of the
Tatras from the slope of Gubałówka, Butorowy Wierch or Bachledzki Wierch.
If you want to try a different kind of Winter thrill, you can try a ride on a ski-doo or a dog sled.