Main Holy Cross Mountains Trail

The Edmund Massalski Main Holy Cross Mountains Trail is the longest hiking trail in the Świętokrzyskie Mountains. Red markers lead for approximately 105 km from Gołoszyce to Kuźniaki, crossing the Jeleniowskie and Łysogóry ranges and the region’s key natural and historical sites.

Route and key sights

The route passes Paprocice, Święty Krzyż, Huta Szklana, Święta Katarzyna, Masłów and Tumlin. It runs near Łysica (614 m), the highest summit of the Holy Cross Mountains, and Łysa Góra with the sanctuary at Święty Krzyż, its stone seas and the Natural History Museum of Świętokrzyski National Park. In Ciekoty, the hike can be combined with places associated with the writer Stefan Żeromski.

Planning the hike

It is easiest to split the full trail into several stages; shorter sections can be matched to transport from Kielce and nearby towns. The route combines forest paths, rocky ground and climbs, so comfortable footwear, an offline map and enough water are useful. Before setting out, check the weather, current Świętokrzyski National Park notices and the opening hours of sites along the route.

Trail rules

Inside the national park, stay on marked trails or in areas open to visitors. Dogs are allowed only on sections designated by the park and must be kept on a lead. The trail has no single entrance ticket, but separate fees may apply for the national park, museum or selected attractions.