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National parks are the No. 1 choice for most visitors planning a hike. No wonder, they usually bring together the most beautiful corners of a country.
Today, we’ll take a closer look at two of the most popular and frequently visited national parks in Slovakia, the Tatra National Park (TANAP) and the Low Tatras National Park (NAPANT).
Neighbouring and located close to one another, yet strikingly different. The Tatra National Park welcomes more tourists than any other in Slovakia each year (local and foreign). And understandably so: such a massive mountain range within such a small country is truly remarkable.
The smallest among the greats
The High Tatras form the highest part of the great Carpathian Arc, which stretches across Central Europe all the way to Romania. They are considered the smallest high mountains in the world. In terms of height or area, they may not seem extensive, but their density of lofty, exposed peaks lures countless climbers and hikers alike.
In the Tatra National Park, everyone can find something to suit them. Leisure hikers often head for one of the mountain chalets and huts which offer cosy hospitality, tasty food or even the unique experience of a night spent high in the mountains. Whether you choose Zbojnícka chalet, neighbouring Téry’s chalet or the Chalet at Zelené pleso (tarn), you can count on an unforgettable adventure.
Countless peaks
Those who enjoy more strenuous hikes will not be disappointed either. Freely accessible summits include Mt Jahňací štít, Mt Kôprovský štít or Mt Východná Vysoká, as well as various mountain pass crossings. The Tatras even boast their own via ferrata, built relatively recently in Priečne sedlo (saddle) and connecting the valleys of Veľká Studená dolina and Malá Studená dolina, where some of the chalets mentioned above are located.
Are you craving more adrenaline and aiming for more summits? No problem – with a certified mountain guide, a wide range of peaks can be reached safely if you use proper climbing protection.
Flora and fauna
The Tatra National Park is not only about bare rocks and peaks, but it also features beautiful coniferous forests and lush alpine meadows that burst into colour in the summer months. Flowers bloom briefly, but vividly. Visiting in July or August rewards you with these multicoloured alpine meadows. However, do note that picking flowers or collecting fruits is forbidden in both parks – floral beauty can only be admired in situ.
The experience is enriched by the chance to spot endemic wildlife, such as the Tatra chamois or marmot. Sparkling streams and waterfalls add to the atmosphere of the mountain scenery. But beware of summer storms in peak season. It’s best to set off early in the morning.
Ski mountaineering heaven
In winter, the Tatras open their snowy gates to ski mountaineers eager to carve their first tracks. Beginners and advanced enthusiasts can find suitable off-piste terrain, while steep couloirs attract experienced ski mountaineers looking for adrenaline and challenging descents.
Educational trails
The main roles of national parks include not only protecting nature, but also educating visitors. In the Tatras, you’ll find several educational trails, such as the Hrebienok trail, the Roháčske plesá trail or the Zadné Meďodoly trail. They offer insight into how the national park was formed, why such high peaks rise there, and how glaciers once shaped the terrain during the ice age.
The Tatras are stunning in the summer, but they are also the most visited national park in Slovakia, which is clearly evident in peak season. So carefully consider your choice of routes and timing. Cable cars (tickets can be purchased with discounts via Gopass) can help you cover more ground and save time.
Why is swimming in Tatra tarns prohibited?
On hot summer days, it may be tempting to cool down in a mountain stream, but swimming in Tatra tarns and brooks is strictly prohibited. The aim is to protect the fragile ecosystems, including glacial relics that were preserved from the ice age, such as the fairy shrimp (Branchinecta paludosa) that still survive in some tarns.
Not only our sweat but also chemical residues from sunscreen, shower gels or deodorants could damage these sensitive waters.
Drone restrictions
Using drones without special permits is prohibited in national parks (not only in TANAP and NAPANT, but in all Slovak national parks) based on several applicable laws (more details about permits are specified in the park rules).
While aerial footage is spectacular, drones disturb wildlife – a fact confirmed by numerous international studies. In both the Tatra National Park and the Low Tatras National Park, species such as chamois, marmots, golden eagles and falcons are especially vulnerable.
Animals may mistake drones for danger or predators and flee – sometimes fatally, as there have been cases of chamois falling from cliffs while escaping drones. Birds may even attack drones, with potentially deadly consequences for the bird itself.
The Low Tatras are far from low
The Low Tatras face the High Tatras and are home to the Low Tatras National Park. Although geographically close and similarly named, this park has a completely different character. Instead of sharp, jagged peaks, you’ll find rolling grassy summits – except perhaps for Mt Chopok and Mt Ďumbier on the northern side.
The Low Tatras are defined by their vast alpine meadows. If you like open, rounded summits, this is the perfect choice. Despite the name, the Low Tatras are anything but low – something you’ll quickly discover for yourself. Casual hikers but also true mountain lovers will find plenty of challenges here.
Hiking for everybody
Recreational hikers will appreciate the option of taking a cable car up to the ridge (whether from the southern or northern side of Mt Chopok). But if you’re looking for a real challenge, the possibilities are endless. You can choose a section of the main ridge, head for more remote peaks of the side ridges (such as Mt Veľký Bok or Mt Krakova Hoľa), or even tackle the entire ridge trail, stretching all the way from Donovaly to Telgárt – in either direction. It offers truly unique views, with much of the route boasting 360-degree panoramas.
You’ll also find various mountain chalets and shelters in the mountain range. Popular stops include the Chalet of General M. R. Štefánik (colloquially called “Štefánička”) or the Kamenná chalet below the Chopok summit. Further along are charming shelters such as the Andrejcová hut in the Kráľova Hoľa area of the Low Tatras and the Ďurková hut in the Ďumbier section.
Wildlife encounters are also possible here, with chamois and marmots often spotted. For plant lovers, the Low Tatras offer even greater diversity than their neighbouring Tatra National Park, as much of the high terrain is covered in colourful alpine meadows blooming in summer.
The Low Tatras in winter
Like the High Tatras, the Low Tatras become a paradise for ski mountaineers in winter too. There are routes suitable for absolute beginners, but also steep challenges for experienced riders. Popular routes for beginner ski mountaineers include ascents to Mt Kráľova hoľa (Kráľova hoľa ski mountaineering area) or to the Štefánička chalet together with Mt Ďumbier. The Chopok ski mountaineering area, which is part of the Chopok ski resort, offers extensive terrain where skiing is permitted throughout the entire area, including several steep couloirs.
Protecting nature means protecting ourselves
The beauty and wilderness of these national parks is just one reason for their protection. The natural processes vital not only for ecosystems but for us as well are equally important. No matter how advanced our civilisation becomes, we will always depend on nature.
Understanding its processes helps us live in harmony with it and also to better protect ourselves against floods, landslides and other natural hazards. Visiting and respecting these protected areas contributes to this understanding.
