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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.

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Park Map
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Stolowe Mountains National Park Highlights

Popular

Stolowe Mountains National Park, located in southwestern Poland, is known for its stunning table mountains, unique rock formations, and diverse wildlife. The park is home to a variety of mammals, amphibians, and reptiles that thrive in its forests, meadows, and rocky landscapes. Here are some of the most popular species found in the park:

Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx)
A rare but fascinating predator, the Eurasian lynx is one of the park’s most elusive inhabitants. With its tufted ears, thick fur, and sharp hunting skills, this solitary feline preys on deer and small mammals, contributing to the natural balance of the ecosystem.

European Badger (Meles meles)
Recognizable by its black-and-white striped face, the European badger is a nocturnal burrower that thrives in the park’s woodlands. It is an omnivore, feeding on earthworms, fruits, small mammals, and insects.

Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes)
A highly adaptable carnivore, the red fox is commonly seen in Stolowe Mountains National Park. Its intelligence and keen senses make it a successful hunter, preying on rodents, birds, and even scavenging from human settlements.

Eurasian Brown Bear (Ursus arctos arctos)
Though not frequently spotted, the Eurasian brown bear occasionally roams through the park’s dense forests. These powerful omnivores primarily feed on berries, roots, insects, and small mammals.

Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus)
This small, graceful deer is one of the park’s most frequently encountered mammals. With its reddish-brown coat and white rump patch, the roe deer is a herbivore that thrives in the mixed forests and open meadows.

Wild Boar (Sus scrofa)
An important species in the park, wild boars are sturdy, social animals that forage for roots, tubers, and small invertebrates. They play a significant role in shaping the park’s ecosystem by aerating the soil while searching for food.

European Pine Marten (Martes martes)
A nimble and agile carnivore, the European pine marten is a member of the weasel family. It has a thick brown coat and a distinctive yellow throat patch. This species preys on birds, rodents, and fruits.

Western Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) [Note: Technically a bird, but a notable species]
This large forest grouse is a symbol of the park’s biodiversity. Males are known for their elaborate courtship displays and deep, resonant calls during mating season.

Common European Adder (Vipera berus)
One of the few venomous snakes in Poland, the common European adder is found in forested and rocky areas of the park. Though it avoids human interaction, it plays an important role in controlling rodent populations.

Fire Salamander (Salamandra salamandra)
A striking amphibian with black skin and bright yellow spots, the fire salamander is often found in moist forest areas. It relies on damp conditions to survive and is known for its ability to secrete toxins as a defense mechanism.

Birds

The park’s diverse landscapes, ranging from dense woodlands to open rock formations, provide a perfect habitat for numerous bird species. Birdwatchers can spot a variety of raptors, owls, and songbirds throughout the year. Here are some of the most popular bird species in the park:

Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos)
One of Europe’s most majestic birds of prey, the golden eagle soars high above the park’s rocky cliffs and forests. With its impressive wingspan and keen eyesight, it hunts small mammals and birds.

Eurasian Eagle-Owl (Bubo bubo)
This large nocturnal predator is recognized by its deep hoots and striking orange eyes. It preys on rodents, rabbits, and other small animals, using its silent flight to ambush prey at night.

Black Stork (Ciconia nigra)
Unlike its white stork relative, the black stork is more elusive and prefers forested wetlands. It feeds on fish, amphibians, and insects while nesting in remote trees.

Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo)
A medium-sized raptor, the common buzzard is often seen circling above open areas in search of small mammals, reptiles, and carrion. Its distinctive call resembles a mewing sound.

Western Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus)
This impressive forest bird, known for its dramatic courtship displays, is a highlight for birdwatchers. Males perform elaborate dances and calls during the breeding season to attract females.

European Green Woodpecker (Picus viridis)
Recognized by its green plumage and red crown, this woodpecker is often heard before it is seen, thanks to its loud, laughing call. It feeds primarily on ants and insects found in tree bark.

Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus)
One of the fastest birds in the world, the peregrine falcon is known for its spectacular high-speed dives when hunting birds in midair. It nests on cliffs and tall trees within the park.

Great Grey Shrike (Lanius excubitor)
A unique predatory songbird, the great grey shrike hunts small birds, rodents, and insects. It is known for impaling its prey on thorns or barbed wire as a form of food storage.

Ural Owl (Strix uralensis)
A silent hunter of the night, the Ural owl has a distinctive round face and dark eyes. It prefers old-growth forests and hunts small mammals with its powerful talons.

Tengmalm’s Owl (Aegolius funereus)
A small, elusive owl, Tengmalm’s owl is known for its large, round head and bright yellow eyes. It thrives in the park’s coniferous forests, preying on voles and insects.

Stolowe Mountains National Park offers a rich diversity of wildlife, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and birdwatchers alike. Whether exploring its dense forests or rocky peaks, visitors have a chance to encounter some of Europe’s most remarkable species in their natural habitat.

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