Las Okręglik

Las Okręglik lies on the border between Łódź and Zgierz, in the area of Łódź's Helenówek district, and is one of those places where residents of both cities pop in for a quick walk, run or bike ride, without planning a full excursion. Ulica Konstantynowska runs through the forest, so access does not require searching for forest paths blindly.

Two parts of the forest

Okręglik is divided into what is known as Las Harcerski and older sections of beech forest. This difference is visible on the ground: the younger section has a more regular layout of paths, the older section retains the character of natural old-growth forest. The river Wrząca flows through the area, adding wetter, more varied sections to the forest.

Trails and routes

The main trail loop in the forest is about 4 kilometres long. A blue cycle and walking trail also runs through Okręglik, connecting Łódź with Zgierz, so the forest acts both as a natural link between the two cities and as a destination in itself. The paths are wide and well-maintained, making them convenient for walks with children as well as for running or cycling.

Monument to victims of war

In the Zgierz part of the forest stands the Pomnik Okręglik, commemorating victims of German crimes from the Second World War period, including members of the scouting movement. A section of the trail is called the Szlak Pamięci Ofiar Zbrodni Niemieckich (Trail of Memory of Victims of German Crimes), marked by PTTK. This place gives the forest a second dimension: beyond its recreational function, it is also a point of historical memory for residents of the region.

Picnicking and leisure

The forest has picnic clearings with benches, adapted for family rest. This means Okręglik is visited by both runners and cyclists looking for a route, and families who simply want to sit by a fire or eat sandwiches among the trees. The forest is accessible without restrictions as a public recreational area, so there is no need to watch opening hours. The combination of picnic clearings with benches and wide, well-maintained paths means that one section of the forest is suitable for a short rest with children, while another, more old-growth section, is suitable for a longer walk without rushing.

Practical information

• Address: area of ulica Konstantynowska, border between Łódź (Helenówek) and Zgierz
• Access: from Łódź via ulica Konstantynowska, from Zgierz from the western side of the city; public transport stops nearby
• What to expect: approximately 4-kilometre trail loop, blue cycle and walking trail to Zgierz, Pomnik Okręglik in the Zgierz section, picnic clearings with benches, the river Wrząca cutting through the area