The park's diverse ecosystems support a rich variety of wildlife, including approximately 200 species of birds, 40 species of mammals, and numerous reptiles and amphibians. Notable mammals include the European roe deer, wild boar, and various small predators like foxes and martens. The park serves as an important habitat for both resident and migratory birds, including eagles, falcons, and various songbirds. Several endangered species find refuge within the park's boundaries, making it an important conservation area in the Northern Caucasus region.
The park boasts over 900 species of plants, including many endemic to the Northern Caucasus region. The lower elevations feature deciduous forests dominated by oak, beech, and hornbeam trees, while higher areas support coniferous species like pine and spruce. The park is particularly famous for its extensive collection of ornamental plants in the Upper Park area, including rare species of roses, lilacs, and conifers. Several plant species found here are listed in the Russian Red Book of endangered species. The park's varied elevation zones create distinct plant communities, from steppe vegetation to alpine meadows.
The park's geological foundation consists primarily of sedimentary rocks from the Cretaceous period, including limestone and sandstone formations. The area features numerous mineral springs, most notably narzan springs, which contain natural carbon dioxide and various mineral compounds. The park's landscape was shaped by tectonic activity in the Caucasus region, resulting in distinctive rock formations and steep valleys. The territory includes several geological monuments, including the unique Red Rocks and Gray Rocks formations, which showcase the region's complex geological history.
Established as a national park in 2016, the area around Kislovodsk has been known for its healing mineral springs since ancient times. The region was first developed as a resort area in the early 19th century under Tsar Alexander I. The park's territory includes historical paths and terrenkurs (therapeutic walking routes) created in the late 1800s. During the Soviet era, the area became a premier health resort destination, with numerous sanatoriums and health facilities being constructed. The park's development has been closely tied to the city of Kislovodsk's growth as a renowned balneological resort.
The park's most prominent attractions include the famous Cascade Stairway, stretching for nearly a kilometer with 468 steps, and the Mirror Pond surrounded by decorative bridges and pavilions. The Mountain of Ring (Koltso-Gora) features a natural arch formation and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The park contains extensive networks of terrenkurs totaling over 30 kilometers, carefully designed therapeutic walking paths with varying degrees of difficulty. Other significant features include the Valley of Roses, featuring thousands of rose bushes, and numerous viewing platforms offering spectacular vistas of the Caucasus Mountains.
Kislovodsk National Park enjoys a mild continental climate with distinct seasons. The park's elevation (ranging from 800-1,400 meters) creates a unique microclimate characterized by cool summers and relatively mild winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20-25°C (68-77°F), while winter temperatures typically hover around 0-5°C (32-41°F). The region receives approximately 600mm of annual rainfall, with peak precipitation occurring in late spring and early summer. The park experiences about 300 sunny days per year, earning Kislovodsk its nickname 'The City of Sun.'
Russia
43.9000°, 42.7170°
2016
966
Kislovodsk National Park surrounds the famous spa city of the same name. The park features healing mineral springs, mountain landscapes, and extensive walking paths. It's renowned for its therapeutic air and contains Europe's largest mountain park.