Tatra National Park

Tatra National Park protects the Polish side of the Tatras, the highest range in the Carpathians. Zakopane is the usual base, with marked trails running into the valleys and up to the high ridges. The most visited walk is the route to Morskie Oko, a glacial lake; the park's own page lists it as about 11.6 km from Palenica Białczańska including the lake loop, and warns that it is very busy in peak periods, so plan ahead.

Check the park's site before you set out, because trails close from time to time. For example, a stretch of the Dolina Olczyska trail was due to close from 29 October 2026 until further notice. Mountain weather changes quickly, so carry layers and check forecasts. Winter brings skiing, and we'd make sure travel insurance covers mountain rescue if you plan to go above the tree line.