Swiss National Park

Swiss Overview

Swiss National Park, known as “Parc Naziunal Svizzer” in the local Romansh language, is Switzerland’s oldest national park and a treasure trove of Alpine beauty. Established in 1914, the park spans an area of 67 square miles (172 square kilometers) and is located in the Engadine Valley of the canton of Graubünden, near the borders of Austria and Italy.

As part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it represents a pristine Alpine environment where nature thrives untouched by human interference, embodying the spirit of wilderness conservation.

The terrain of Swiss National Park is a striking blend of rugged mountain peaks, lush valleys, and dynamic landscapes carved by glaciers. Elevations range from 4,593 feet to 10,390 feet (1,400 to 3,180 meters) above sea level. Visitors can witness the grandeur of peaks such as Piz Quattervals and Piz Pisoc, while verdant alpine meadows, dense forests of larch and pine, and rocky outcrops provide dramatic contrasts in vegetation and terrain.

The park also boasts several picturesque streams, waterfalls, and tarns, which add to its tranquil charm. These ecosystems change dramatically with the seasons, showcasing vibrant wildflower blooms in summer and snow-covered tranquility in winter.

Wildlife is a significant draw for visitors to Swiss National Park, offering the chance to see an abundance of Alpine species in their natural habitat. Mammals such as ibex, chamois, red deer, marmots, and foxes roam freely across the landscape.

The park is also home to elusive predators like the lynx. Bird enthusiasts will find the skies and trees alive with species like golden eagles, nutcrackers, and alpine choughs, as well as numerous smaller songbirds. This biodiversity makes the park a haven for those seeking intimate encounters with nature.

Among the park’s most popular features are its extensive and well-marked hiking trails, which span over 50 miles (80 kilometers). These trails vary in difficulty, making them accessible to casual walkers and seasoned trekkers alike. The park adheres to strict conservation policies, so activities are limited to preserve its untouched wilderness.

Visitors can hike through the dense forests, ascend mountain paths, or marvel at geological formations like rockslides and moraines. Educational exhibits at the Zernez Visitor Center provide further insight into the park’s unique environment, history, and conservation efforts.

Conservation has been at the heart of Swiss National Park since its inception. It is one of the most strictly protected areas in Europe, adhering to a “hands-off” approach that allows ecosystems to develop without human influence.

This success has allowed many species to flourish, but challenges remain, such as the impacts of climate change and balancing the increasing interest in outdoor tourism with the need to preserve the park’s delicate ecosystems. Through research, education, and international collaboration, Swiss National Park continues to be a model for sustainable park management and biodiversity protection.

Park Map

Swiss National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Swiss National Park is also home to an incredible array of bird species, many of which thrive in its diverse alpine habitats. These birds add vibrant life to the landscape, from soaring raptors to small, colorful passerines.

Rock Ptarmigan
Adapted to the alpine climate, the rock ptarmigan changes its plumage to white during winter for camouflage. It is often found in rocky, high-altitude areas.

Snowfinch
A true alpine species, the snowfinch is frequently seen flitting among rocks and meadows. Its pale coloring blends well with its environment.

White-Throated Dipper
Known for its remarkable ability to dive into icy streams, the white-throated dipper is often seen near the park’s waterways.

Wallcreeper
A rare and striking bird, the wallcreeper has crimson wings and is often seen scaling cliffs in search of insects.

Golden Eagle
This iconic bird of prey is a common sight, gliding above the park’s valleys. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem’s balance.

Bearded Vulture (Lammergeier)
As one of the largest birds in the Alps, the bearded vulture is a key attraction. It is known for feeding on bones and soaring gracefully through mountain skies.

Peregrine Falcon
The fastest bird in the world, the peregrine falcon is a formidable hunter. It nests on cliffs and preys on smaller birds.

Alpine Chough
This social and acrobatic bird is easily recognized by its bright yellow beak and red legs. It thrives in high-altitude environments.

Eurasian Pygmy Owl
One of Europe’s smallest owls, the Eurasian pygmy owl is a nocturnal predator that inhabits forested areas of the park.

Black Grouse
Known for its elaborate mating displays, the black grouse is a fascinating resident of the park’s forest edges and clearings.

Swiss National Park, located in the Engadine Valley of Switzerland, is the oldest national park in the Alps and a haven for alpine wildlife. The park’s pristine landscapes offer a glimpse into the diversity of species that call the alpine environment home, with many thriving in its protected ecosystems.

Alpine Ibex
The Alpine Ibex, known for its majestic, curved horns, is a symbol of the Swiss Alps. These agile climbers are often seen navigating steep rocky terrains, grazing on vegetation.

Chamois
Similar in appearance to an antelope, the chamois is a nimble and swift mammal. They are often spotted grazing on alpine meadows or darting across rocky slopes.

Red Deer
One of the largest mammals in the park, red deer roam the forests and open areas. Known for their impressive antlers, the males put on a show during the autumn rutting season.

Marmot
These burrowing rodents are common in the park’s meadows. Recognized by their whistle-like calls, marmots hibernate during the harsh alpine winters.

Stoat (Ermine)
The stoat is a small predator with a distinctive white coat during the winter months, which helps it blend into snowy environments. It is known for its quick movements and hunting skills.

Golden Eagle
A powerful bird of prey, the golden eagle is often seen soaring above the park’s valleys, hunting for smaller mammals and birds.

Bearded Vulture (Lammergeier)
This rare and majestic vulture is one of the park’s conservation successes. Known for its dramatic appearance and bone-breaking feeding habits, it is a highlight for wildlife enthusiasts.

Common European Adder
The adder, a venomous snake, inhabits the park’s warmer, rocky areas. Though shy and non-aggressive, they play a key role in controlling rodent populations.

Eurasian Lynx
Though elusive, the Eurasian lynx is a top predator in the park, preying on deer and smaller mammals. Their stealthy nature makes sightings a rare and thrilling experience.

European Brown Bear
Once extinct in the region, brown bears have begun to reappear in parts of the Alps, including the Swiss National Park. They are solitary and primarily feed on plants, berries, and insects.