The park harbors rich wildlife, including iconic mountain species like the Tatra chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra tatrica), an endemic subspecies, and the Alpine marmot (Marmota marmota). Large carnivores such as brown bears, wolves, and lynx maintain stable populations. The park is also home to golden eagles, alpine accentors, and numerous other bird species. The mountain lakes contain unique aquatic life, including the Tatra newt. Several species, particularly the Tatra chamois, are subject to strict protection measures due to their endangered status.
The park's vegetation shows distinct altitudinal zonation, from mixed forests of beech, fir, and spruce at lower elevations to dwarf pine zones and alpine meadows at higher altitudes. Above 1,800m, hardy alpine species dominate, including rare endemic plants like the Tatra scurvy-grass (Cochlearia tatrae) and Tatra larkspur (Delphinium oxysepalum). The park is home to over 1,300 plant species, with approximately 37 species being endemic to the Carpathians. The tree line occurs at approximately 1,550m, above which dwarf pine communities prevail.
The Tatra Mountains were formed during the Alpine orogeny in the Tertiary period, consisting primarily of granite and metamorphic rocks. The landscape was significantly shaped by glacial activity during the last ice age, resulting in characteristic features like cirques, moraines, and over 100 mountain lakes (tarns). The highest peak in Slovakia, Gerlachovský štít (2,655m), is located within the park. The region exhibits dramatic relief with deep valleys, sharp ridges, and numerous waterfalls, showcasing classic high mountain glacial geomorphology.
Tatry National Park was established in 1949, making it Slovakia's oldest national park. The area has a rich cultural heritage dating back to prehistoric times, with evidence of human settlement from the Bronze Age. During the Medieval period, the region was known for mining and forestry. The park's development as a tourist destination began in the late 19th century with the construction of mountain hotels and the Tatra Electric Railway. In 2004, a severe windstorm damaged significant portions of the forest, leading to extensive restoration efforts. The park was designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1993.
Key attractions include Štrbské Pleso, the park's largest and most famous glacial lake, offering stunning reflections of surrounding peaks. The Skalnaté Pleso observatory provides astronomical observations and panoramic views. The park features an extensive network of marked hiking trails, including the famous Tatranská magistrála trail. Notable waterfalls include the 20m high Studenovodské vodopády and the impressive Kmeťov vodopád. The park also contains several historic mountain chalets (chaty) and cable car systems, making higher elevations accessible to visitors. The symbolic cemetery at Popradské pleso commemorates victims of mountain accidents.
The Tatra Mountains experience a typical mountain climate with significant variations based on altitude. Summers (June-August) are mild with average temperatures of 15-20°C at lower elevations, while winters (December-February) are cold with temperatures often dropping below -10°C. The park receives substantial precipitation, with snow cover typically lasting from November to April in higher areas. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and thunderstorms are common in summer afternoons. The best hiking season is from June to September, though winter offers excellent conditions for skiing and winter sports.
Slovakia
49.1670°, 20.1330°
1949
738
Tatry (High Tatras) is Slovakia's oldest national park featuring the country's highest peaks and alpine landscapes. The park contains over 100 mountain lakes, diverse wildlife including endemic chamois, and extensive hiking trails. It is a popular destination for both summer hiking and winter skiing.