I am certain that everyone who visits our crags will find something to their liking and will sit by the fire at the end of the day, satisfied with their performance.Finally, I wish you all the best of luck with your climbing, good weather, minimal pump, and as much patience as possible – the local rock truly demands it. On behalf of nature, I would also like to ask you to respect climbing ethics and behave with the respect that the mountains deserve.
Michal Buchovecký
During dry, warm summer days, we recommend the Dravec and Baterka sectors, especially for more experienced and stronger climbers. In less favorable weather, the South face of Prasknutá skala dries quickly and is suitable for beginners. All rock formations consist of Jurassic limestone.
Climbing history at the Vabec Pass dates back to the 1980s. The area, formed by Jurassic limestone, was first developed by local first ascensionists such as O. Vollmann and Š. Tarhaj (1990), primarily at the Baterka sector. They were later joined by M. Buchovecký, A. Gumulák, J. Beskyd, D. Šak, and others (2002).In 2002, the local crags underwent a significant transformation under the wings of a strong group of local climbers. The Dravec sector was completely bolted, and Baterka became the "holy grail" of bouldering in the region. Local climbers enjoyed a "High Tatra feel" in sectors like Vtáčie previsy, Baraní roh, and Dudková skala. Unfortunately, these have fallen into obscurity over time and are currently not being published.
In recent years (2025–2026), the Prasknutá skala and Dravec sectors have undergone a major renaissance (cleaning, re-bolting, and the creation of new lines) thanks to the efforts of Peter Šimkanin and Pavol Pintér.
Sector Overview
Baterka – Bouldering
Dravec – Sport Climbing
Re-bolted and cleaned (Front Wall / Predná stena) – 2026 (Peter Šimkanin, Pavol Pintér).
New fixed ropes at the top and on the summit access path.
Side Wall (Bočná stena) and Back Wall (Zadná stena) are currently in their original 2002 condition – updates to follow.
Original route authors: M. Buchovecký, A. Gumulák, J. Beskyd, D. Šak, I. Fabian, J. Pisarčík.
15 routes, difficulty: VI to IX (UIAA).
Prasknutá skala – Sport Climbing
Re-bolted and cleaned area with new lines – 2025 (Peter Šimkanin, Pavol Pintér).
Original route authors: M. Buchovecký, A. Gumulák, J. Kopčáková.
12 routes, difficulty: IV to VII- (UIAA) – the grading is very "friendly."
