Stolowe Mountains Overview
Stołowe Mountains National Park, known as Park Narodowy Gór Stołowych in Polish, is located in southwestern Poland, near the border with the Czech Republic.
Covering an area of approximately 24 square miles (63 square kilometers), the park protects a unique and striking landscape of table mountains, which are among the few such geological formations in Europe.
The park lies within the Central Sudetes mountain range in Lower Silesia and is particularly known for its dramatic rock formations, deep gorges, and extensive sandstone plateaus.
The landscape of Stołowe Mountains National Park is characterized by distinctive flat-topped mountains formed by layered sandstone, shaped over millions of years by erosion. The most famous of these is Szczeliniec Wielki, the highest peak in the range at 3,681 feet (1,122 meters), offering panoramic views of the surrounding forests and valleys.
Another well-known feature is Błędne Skały, or “Errant Rocks,” a labyrinth of narrow passageways and towering rock formations that create a mysterious, maze-like environment. The park is also home to underground caves, deep ravines, and hidden waterfalls, adding to its appeal for nature lovers and adventurers. The dense coniferous and mixed forests, mainly composed of spruce, beech, and fir, cover much of the park, providing a lush green canopy over the rugged terrain.
The park’s diverse ecosystems support a variety of wildlife. Among the mammals that roam the forests and rocky outcrops are red deer, roe deer, wild boars, and European badgers. Stołowe Mountains National Park is also a habitat for smaller predators such as foxes and martens.
Bird enthusiasts can find species such as the black stork, Eurasian eagle-owl, and several woodpecker species, along with birds of prey like the common buzzard and peregrine falcon. The region’s damp, shaded environments make it an ideal home for amphibians such as fire salamanders and various frog species. Due to its varied elevation and rich biodiversity, the park offers excellent opportunities for wildlife observation.
One of the park’s most popular attractions is Szczeliniec Wielki, with its network of trails and staircases carved into the rock leading visitors to its summit. The labyrinth of Błędne Skały is another major draw, offering an adventurous walk through narrow crevices and massive rock formations that resemble natural sculptures.
The park has numerous hiking trails, ranging from easy walks through forested areas to more challenging ascents that lead to breathtaking viewpoints. In winter, some trails are suitable for cross-country skiing, making the park a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Visitors can explore the park through a well-maintained system of hiking trails, many of which connect to the larger Sudetes trail network that extends into the Czech Republic.
Guided tours provide insights into the park’s geological history, flora, and fauna, while designated observation points offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Educational centers and exhibits help visitors learn about the unique rock formations and the natural history of the area.
Despite its natural beauty, the park faces conservation challenges, including the impact of tourism on fragile rock formations and the pressures of deforestation. Conservation efforts have focused on protecting the sandstone structures from erosion, maintaining the park’s biodiversity, and promoting responsible tourism.
Through careful management, the park has successfully preserved its distinctive geological and ecological features while remaining accessible to visitors who come to admire its extraordinary landscapes.