Wielka Krokiew

Wielka Krokiew is Zakopane's large ski jump, built on the wooded slope of Krokiew at the southern edge of town. Its in-run tower rises clear above the trees and is a landmark from much of Zakopane. The hill first opened in 1925 and has been rebuilt several times since. Today it is a regular stop on the FIS Ski Jumping World Cup and the focus of the town's winter sporting life.

On a competition weekend this is one of the biggest events in Poland, with a large crowd packed into the arena at the base of the hill and a loud, flag-heavy atmosphere. Out of season it is still worth the short trip for the scale of the structure and the view up the landing slope. The tower gives a sense of just how steep the sport is. For how it fits a wider visit, see the Zakopane guide.

The hill was designed by Karol Stryjenski and opened in 1925, and it has grown through repeated reconstructions as the sport has changed, most recently in a major rebuild that brought it up to modern large-hill size. It carries the name of Stanislaw Marusarz, the pre-war ski jumper from Zakopane. Since the early 2000s it has hosted a World Cup competition almost every winter, and it has also staged World Championship events across its history.

For the sport itself, aim for the World Cup weekend, usually held in winter; tickets sell fast and the town fills up, so plan and book ahead. Summer training and other events sometimes use the hill too. For a quiet look at the structure, any dry day works, and the walk up to the base is pleasant in the warmer months.

Wielka Krokiew is on the southern side of Zakopane, on the way towards the mountains. It is a walk of about half an hour from the centre, or a short local bus or taxi ride. On event days expect road closures and heavy foot traffic near the arena, so allow extra time.

The jump sits close to the southern trailheads and the town's mountain sights:

• Kasprowy Wierch, whose cable car base at Kuznice is a short way further on.
• Giewont, the peak that rises directly behind the hill.
• Krupowki, the main street, back towards the centre for food and drink.

The hill opened in 1925 to a design by Karol Stryjenski, and it has been rebuilt and enlarged several times since to keep pace with the sport.

Yes. Wielka Krokiew hosts a FIS Ski Jumping World Cup competition most winters, drawing large crowds. Check the season schedule and buy tickets in advance.