National parks

Babia Góra National Park

Babia Góra National Park protects the Babia Góra massif and Diablak (1,725 m), the highest peak of the Żywiec Beskids and the entire Western Beskids. The park was established in 1954, and in 1976 the area joined UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere programme. It is a small park of less than 34 km², but with clearly defined vegetation zones and a distinctly high-mountain landscape.

Nature and landscape

The slopes contain forests, dwarf mountain pine and subalpine vegetation. Diablak’s open summit offers wide views, but weather on the ridge changes quickly: fog, wind and rain may arrive even on a calm-looking day. The park protects habitats as well as scenery, so visitors must stay on designated trails.

Trails and starting points

Routes to Diablak start in Zawoja Markowa, at Krowiarki Pass and from Hala Krupowa. Popular variants pass Markowe Szczawiny, Brona Pass and the Babia Góra ridge; a mountain hut operates at Markowe Szczawiny. The yellow Academic Perć is more demanding and may close in winter conditions, so check current park notices before setting out. Longer walks take several hours and require fitness and a proper map.

Practical information

Entry to the park’s trails is paid. On the verification date, a one-day ticket cost PLN 8 standard and PLN 4 reduced; tickets are available online and at entry points. Dogs and drones are prohibited. Check the forecast, trail closures and ridge conditions before your hike. Carry water, a map, a charged phone and an extra layer. In an emergency, call GOPR at 985 or 601 100 300.