National parks

Gorce National Park

Gorce National Park protects 7,030 hectares of mountain landscape in the Western Beskids. Established in 1981 around the Turbacz massif, it is shaped by continuous forests, open shepherd clearings and ridges with views towards the Tatras, Pieniny and Beskid Wyspowy. It works equally well for a full-day hike or a shorter valley walk if you want nature without climbing the highest peaks.

Forests, clearings and Gorce scenery

Trails cross beech, fir and spruce forests as well as meadows created by traditional pastoral use. Hala Długa and the clearings on the Turbacz ridge are especially characteristic, with Tatra views in good weather. Crocuses bloom on the meadows in spring, and the fire salamander is the park’s symbol. Stay on the trail.

Trails to Turbacz, Gorc and Kudłoń

The park has hiking, walking, educational, cycling and ski routes. Approaches to Turbacz start at Koninki, Lubomierz-Rzeki, Łopuszna and Ochotnica. From Koninki, the green trail runs via Tobołów and Obidowiec; from Hucisko, a blue trail heads towards the Turbacz shelter. Check the map and trail notices before setting out.

Practical information

Stay on marked routes; admission to Gorce National Park is charged all year. Dogs are allowed only on designated sections and must be leashed, so do not assume every trail is dog-friendly. In winter, routes are not additionally maintained or marked, and wind, snow loading and ice can make conditions serious. Check tickets, weather, closures and current park rules before travelling.