Veľký Kriváň
Mountain High mountain in the Malá Fatra range, Žilina Region
Veľký Kriváň rises in the Malá Fatra range with marked hiking routes, alpine meadows and panoramic views over northern Slovakia-popular on weekend day‑hikes.
Veľký Kriváň is a mountain in the Malá Fatra range of northern Slovakia, situated in the Žilina Region and rising to approximately 1,709 metres above sea level. It is one of the prominent summits in the range and offers extensive views from its ridge and summit area.
The peak is accessed by marked hiking trails from nearby valleys and mountain huts and is a frequent destination for hikers and mountaineers exploring the Malá Fatra National Park area. Terrain includes alpine meadows and rocky summit sections.
The mountain sits within the Žilina Region of northern Slovakia, forming part of the central massif of the Malá Fatra range.
- Elevation: The summit elevation is about 1,709 metres, making it one of the notable peaks of the Malá Fatra range and a common objective for day hikes.
How to Get to Veľký Kriváň #
Veľký Kriváň is in the Malá Fatra mountain range (Žilina Region). The usual approach is to drive from Žilina to the Terchová/Štefanová area (about 25-35 km, roughly 30-40 minutes by car) and park at the village or trailhead; from there marked hiking trails lead to the summit and the ascent typically requires several hours on foot, so be prepared for a mountain hike.
Best Time to Visit Veľký Kriváň #
Best in summer for safe, comfortable hikes; spring and autumn are quieter but cooler, and winter is snowy and technical.
Weather & Climate near Veľký Kriváň #
Veľký Kriváň's climate is classified as Subarctic - Subarctic climate with cool summers (peaking in August) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -10°C to 15°C. Abundant rainfall (1366 mm/year), wettest in June.
January
January is the coldest month with highs of -4°C and lows of -10°C. Regular rainfall (82 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
February
February is freezing with highs of -3°C and lows of -10°C. Regular rainfall (82 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
March
March is freezing with highs of 0°C and lows of -7°C. Regular rainfall (82 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
April
April is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -3°C. Regular rainfall (92 mm), partly cloudy skies, and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
May
May is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 2°C. Significant rainfall (135 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
June
June is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 4°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (171 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
July
July is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (152 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
August
August is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (157 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
September
September is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (114 mm), partly cloudy skies, and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
October
October is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of -1°C. Regular rainfall (81 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
November
November is freezing with highs of 0°C and lows of -5°C. Significant rainfall (105 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
December
December is freezing with highs of -3°C and lows of -8°C. Significant rainfall (113 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.