Turbacz

Turbacz is the highest peak of the Gorce Mountains. It rises 1310 m above sea level, standing roughly in the middle of the range where a powerful cluster of ridges branches off. The village of Obidowa lies among the settlements at the foot of this massif. The summit sits at coordinates 49.5428 N, 20.1039 E.

What is Turbacz?

The mountain is built of Carpathian flysch, alternating layers of sandstone and shale typical of the Polish Beskids. Turbacz belongs to the Crown of Polish Mountains, so peak-baggers collecting that list visit it regularly. The Gorce range lies in southern Lesser Poland, and Turbacz is its natural centre.

What will you see at the top?

Dense forest surrounds the summit, so there is no wide panorama. It used to be different: sources from 1832 describe a treeless top from which Kraków could be spotted through a telescope. On the summit stands a stone obelisk topped with an iron cross, a good spot for a souvenir photo and a short rest after the climb.

Where to rest

Just below the peak, at 1283 m above sea level, stands the PTTK mountain hut named after Władysław Orkan. After a day on the trail it is a natural stop, and for many hikers a destination in itself. Plan a break here before heading back down.

How to reach Turbacz

Several trails lead to the top, and the best choice depends on your starting point. A popular route follows the green trail from Nowy Targ-Kowaniec. Another begins in Oleksówka and runs about 6.5 km, roughly 2.5 hours on foot. Reaching the summit usually takes around 3 hours, so the trip fits comfortably into a single day.

Is there an entrance fee?

Most of the area lies within Gorce National Park, where an entry fee applies. Some red trails, however, can be walked for free. Check the park's current rules before setting out, since prices and the free sections may change.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Turbacz? 1310 m above sea level, the highest point of the whole Gorce range.

Is there a view from the summit? No, because dense forest covers the top. In 1832 the peak was still open, and Kraków was reportedly visible through a telescope.

Is there a mountain hut on Turbacz? Yes. The PTTK hut named after Władysław Orkan stands just below the summit at 1283 m above sea level.

How long does the climb take? Usually about 3 hours. The route from Oleksówka is around 6.5 km and takes about 2.5 hours.

Is Turbacz part of the Crown of Polish Mountains? Yes, it is one of the peaks on that list.

What stands on the summit? A stone obelisk with an iron cross.