Warsaw's largest city forest begins at the southern Metro terminus. Pine and mixed woodland with sand and gravel paths, a small nature reserve section and equestrian trails make it the quickest real forest walk from the centre.
Las Kabacki is Warsaw's largest city forest, lying in the Ursynów district at the southern end of Metro line M1 in Masovian Voivodeship, Poland. The forest starts directly beside Kabaty station, making it the most convenient true forest walk from the city centre. Visitors reach the trailhead by Metro to the Kabaty terminus, paying a ZTM fare of 4.40 PLN (about $1.20), and the forest edge is at the station exit near ul. Kabacki Dukt. Drivers can find street parking nearby. Entry is free and no permit is needed. A network of paths allows loops of 6 to 14 km, taking roughly 1.5 to 3.5 hours. The terrain is essentially flat, with under 20 m of elevation gain, so the area is classed as easy and suits beginners, families and trail runners. Surfaces are sand, gravel and forest dirt, with some paved or compacted stretches near the entrance. Pine and mixed woodland, including oak, provides ample shade in summer, though sandy tracks can be heavy after rain. A small nature reserve section lies within the forest, and equestrian trails run alongside walking paths, so hikers should watch for riders. Wildlife such as roe deer is often seen, particularly early in the morning. Signposting is reasonable but junctions can be confusing, so a map app is useful. Landmarks are mostly natural, with no huts or refuges, and turn-around points can be chosen freely since all loops lead back toward the Metro station or the forest edge. Drinking water is not available inside the forest, so a bottle should be carried; shops and cafes are located around Kabaty station and nearby Ursynów streets. In winter, snow turns the forest into a popular site for walking and cross-country skiing when conditions allow, and traction aids can help on icy paths.
| Distance | 6-14 km loops |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1.5-3.5h |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Trailhead | Metro line M1 to Kabaty (terminus), forest starts at the station; ZTM 4.40 PLN (about $1.20) |
| Best season | year-round; spring and autumn best |
| Address | ul. Kabacki Dukt, 02-796 Warsaw, Poland (Metro Kabaty exit) |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Las Kabacki, Ursynów, Warsaw
What to bring
Trainers or light boots; winter traction in snow
Location
ul. Kabacki Dukt, 02-796 Warsaw, Poland (Metro Kabaty exit)
52.1191, 21.0605 View on map
Highlights
- Metro-to-forest access
- Mixed pine and oak forest
- Wildlife such as roe deer
Tips for visiting
- Use the Kabaty Metro terminus as the start and end point for a simple loop.
- Give way to horse riders on shared trails and keep dogs under control.
- Carry water; none is available inside the forest.
- Wear light boots with grip in winter when paths ice over.
- Go early in the morning for the best chance of seeing roe deer.
When to visit
Spring and autumn are best, though the forest is usable year-round. Weekday mornings are quietest; weekends are busy with local walkers and cyclists.
Accessibility
Paths near the Metro entrance are relatively firm, but most forest tracks are sandy or gravelled and can be hard for wheelchairs and strollers, especially after rain. Short flat sections are manageable with a sturdy stroller.
Frequently asked questions
How do visitors reach Las Kabacki?
Take Metro line M1 to Kabaty, the southern terminus; the forest begins at the station. A ZTM single ticket costs 4.40 PLN (about $1.20).
How long are the loops?
Loops range from about 6 to 14 km, taking 1.5 to 3.5 hours depending on the route.
Is there an entry fee?
No. The forest is open to the public free of charge.
Are there facilities inside the forest?
No shops or huts are located inside; cafes and shops are near the Metro station.