Karkoszczonka Pass in the Silesian Beskids

Karkoszczonka (729 m) is a deep pass in the main ridge of the Silesian Beskids, lying between Trzy Kopce (1,082 m) to the north and Beskidek (860 m) to the south. For centuries it has been the lowest and most convenient crossing between Szczyrk and Brenna — today a place where the ridge rests as much as the hikers do.

The road across the ridge

Two routes lead through the pass: from the east from Szczyrk along the valley of the Biła stream, and from the west from Brenna Bukowa through the valley of the source stream of the Brennica. Both are mostly covered in narrow asphalt and closed to car traffic, so the pass belongs to walkers and cyclists.

Chata Wuja Toma and the trails

On the pass clearing operates the private mountain hut Chata Wuja Toma — a good spot for a rest or a warm meal during a ridge walk. Four main approaches lead to Karkoszczonka: the yellow trail from Brenna Bukowa (about 2 h) and from Szczyrk Centrum (about 1 h), and the red Main Beskid Trail — about 1 h from Klimczok and about 2.5 h from Salmopol Pass.

In practice

The pass is accessible all year round. The approach here is easier than to the neighbouring peaks, which makes it a good first step into the mountains for families — and a natural stop on a hike along the main ridge of the range, from Klimczok towards Trzy Kopce.