Tąpadła Pass below Ślęża

Tąpadła Pass (384 m above sea level) is a saddle in the Ślęża Massif that separates Ślęża from Radunia. For many hikes it is the starting point: there is a car park, the road from Świdnica to Sobótka crosses the pass, and several trails branch off from the saddle – including the gentlest route to the summit of Ślęża. The pass has had its current name since 1945.

Where two rocks meet

The pass marks the boundary between areas of different geology: Ślęża is made of gabbro, Radunia of serpentinite. So the saddle is not only a convenient crossing between two mountains, but also the place where two different rocks meet. A folk tale explains the name differently: the pass is said to have formed when an angry devil stamped his foot and the earth shook ("tąpnąć" means to stamp or to jolt).

Trails from the pass

Blue, green, yellow and black trails and a green educational path start from the car park. The yellow trail climbs Ślęża (718 m) via the Polana z Dębami clearing. The car park – summit – car park loop is about 6.1 km long with about 330 m of ascent and takes around 2 hours. The ascent from Tąpadła is considered the easiest route up Ślęża and works well with children. Trails to Radunia and the route from Świdnica over Ślęża and Wieżyca to Sobótka also cross the pass.

Facilities

The pass has a large car park, a forester's lodge, a holiday centre and a snack bar; there are three car parks around the saddle. Bus line 502 serves the pass and also stops in Sobótka and below Wieżyca. The surrounding cycle routes attract cyclists, and the pass is a popular weekend destination for people from Wrocław.

Tripto tips

On sunny weekends the car parks fill up quickly – arrive early or take the bus. The summit of Ślęża lies in a nature reserve where dogs are not allowed. Allow 2–3 hours for the climb up Ślęża and back, including a rest at the top.