GSB - The longest trail in the Polish mountains
The Main Beskid Trail is of particular importance for mountain tourism. It is a link connecting the Carpathians, and conquering it is a significant achievement for every tourist.
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The longest hiking trail in Poland – 519 km long
The Great Beskid Trail (GSB) is not only the longest hiking trail in Poland, but also a real test for those who value adventure. Almost 500 km long, it is a challenge for the body and the soul – every step in the terrain teaches humility and at the same time reveals unforgettable views that are worth leaving behind the momentary comforts of civilisation. It is when we miss a hot shower or a comfortable bed that we appreciate the small pleasures of life.
Route and location
The GSB crosses six Beskid mountain ranges in the southern part of Poland. The route passes through regions such as:
Bieszczady – the beginning of an adventure with wild and untamed landscapes,
Beskid Niski and Beskid Sądecki – where you can admire picturesque valleys and charming peaks,
Gorce – full of lush vegetation and steep climbs,
Beskid Żywiecki and Beskid Śląski – where tradition meets modernity.
It is interesting that the route passes through areas such as Beskid Mały, Makowski, Wyspowy or Pieniny – these areas are worth discovering by choosing the so-called Mały Szlak Beskidzki, which is an excellent preparation before the main expedition. The march can be started from either end – from Wołosate in Bieszczady or from Ustroń in Beskidy – which allows you to choose the direction according to your preferences and possibilities.
History and Heritage
The roots of the Main Beskid Trail go back to the interwar period. The first markings began in 1925 and were completed in 1935. The patron of the trail was Kazimierz Sosnowski, a well-known promoter of mountain tourism and author of numerous guidebooks, who had a great influence on the popularisation of mountain hiking. Initially, the trail went as far as Czarnohora, reaching the border with Romania – a reminder of Poland’s other, historic borders. After the Second World War, the trail was rebuilt and given its current, more practical route.
Planning the March
The GSB expedition requires careful planning of the stages. As a rule of thumb, the entire route takes about 21 days, but the pace of the march depends on the fitness of the participants. It is worth planning extra days of rest – for example in towns such as Rymanów Zdrój, Krynica Górska or Rabka Zdrój – to fully recover before the next stages.
Stage 1 – Beskid Śląski Ustroń → Węgierska Górka
Distance: 0 km – 58 km, Total walking time: approx. 16 hours, Highest point: 1220 m above sea level (Barania Góra)
Stage 2 – Beskid Żywiecki i Makowski Węgierska Górka → Zakopianka
Distance: 58 km – 159 km, Total walking time: approx. 28 hours, Highest point: 1725 m above sea level (Babia Góra)
Stage 3 – Gorce Zakopianka → Krościenko nad Dunajcem
Distance: 159 km – 211 km, Total walking time: approx. 15 hours, Highest point: 1310 m above sea level (Turbacz)
Stage 4 – Beskid Sądecki Krościenko nad Dunajcem → Huzary
Distance: 211 km – 274 km, Total walking time: approx. 20 hours, Highest point: 1262 m above sea level (Radziejowa)
Stage 5 – Beskid Niski Huzary → Komańcza
Distance: 274 km – 422 km, Total walking time: approx. 48 hours, Highest point: 864 m above sea level (Huzary)
Stage 6 – Bieszczady Komańcza → Wołosate
Distance: 422 km – 518 km, Total walking time: approx. 29 hours, Highest point: 1333 m above sea level (Halicz)
Physical Preparation and Expedition Planning
Taking on the GSB requires long-term preparation. It is best to start training a few months in advance, with running, short hikes and back-strengthening exercises. The best time for the expedition is the summer months of July and August, when access to campsites and shelters is at its best. However, if you are well prepared, you can also consider walking in June or September, when the trail is less crowded. To help you plan your route, it is worth using walking apps, but do not forget the classic maps as a reliable alternative.
Essential Equipment – What to Pack?
The key to a successful expedition is well thought-out equipment. Here’s what you should bring:
Layered clothing:
First layer: Thermal clothing that wicks away moisture.
Second layer: Insulation that retains heat and allows sweat to evaporate.
Third layer: A wind- and waterproof jacket and trousers, preferably with a Gore-Tex or TEXAPORE membrane.
Mountain footwear: High-top boots that stabilise the ankle and are waterproof and breathable. Remember that hiking boots should be slightly looser to allow for swelling of the foot.
Backpack: The optimum capacity is 50-60 litres, and the suspension system should carry most of the weight on the hips.
Tent and sleeping equipment: A light tent (for two people – no more than 3.5 kg), a comfortable sleeping bag at a pleasant temperature and a mat, preferably inflatable, will ensure proper regeneration after a hard day.
Trekking poles: They take the weight off your knees during ascents and descents, which is invaluable on long treks.
Kitchen equipment and food: A set of mess tins, a lightweight gas burner and portioned freeze-dried food are the basis for maintaining the right energy levels.
Accessories: Headlamp, first aid kit, pocket knife, sunscreen, multi-function buff and power bank – items that can prove invaluable in unexpected situations.
Every kilometre of the GSB route is not only a physical challenge, but also a lesson in life. Tiredness gives way to satisfaction, and every moment spent surrounded by wild nature brings a deep sense of fulfilment. Regardless of the difficulties, you will be rewarded with unforgettable views, moments of silence and contact with nature, which will allow you to redefine the limits of your own abilities.
The Main Beskid Trail is an epic adventure that will change your perspective on life. It is a journey that teaches patience, endurance and the appreciation of small pleasures – from a hot cup of tea in a shelter to spectacular mountain views after a downpour. If you think you are up to the challenge, plan your route, prepare your equipment and set off – the Beskids are waiting to give you an unforgettable experience!
Are you ready to immerse yourself in the world of mountains and discover that every drop of sweat will be rewarded with the beauty of nature? Set off on the GSB and see for yourself!