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Swiss National Park

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Swiss National Park (Switzerland)

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The Swiss National Park in the canton of Graubünden is the oldest protected area of its kind in the Alps and Central Europe. Founded on August 1, 1914, it currently covers an area of approximately 170 square kilometers within the municipalities of Zernez, S-chanf, Scuol, and Val Müstair. It is classified as an IUCN Category Ia strict nature reserve, meaning human intervention is entirely prohibited to allow natural processes to unfold without interference. Visitors must adhere strictly to marked paths to protect sensitive ecosystems and resident wildlife, such as Alpine ibex, chamois, red deer, and marmots. The landscape is defined by rugged peaks, extensive larch forests, and alpine meadows, ranging in elevation from 1,400 to 3,174 meters above sea level. For over a century, the park has functioned as an open-air laboratory for ecological research, providing invaluable data on alpine biodiversity and long-term environmental changes.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-10-10-6059111172-3-9
Rain mm55476181120129129145999910265

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
Zernez is the main gateway to the park, easily reachable by the Rhätische Bahn railway. PostBus lines serve several entry points located along the main road passing through the Engadine valley.
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Best season
The best time to visit is between June and October when the hiking trails are free of snow. In winter, access is very limited and most trails are officially closed to the public.
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Terrain & paths
You can expect alpine terrain with well-marked hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging mountain tours. Sure-footedness is often required on the steeper sections of the park.
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What to bring
Sturdy hiking boots, weather-appropriate layered clothing, and binoculars for wildlife watching are highly recommended. Note the strict ban on camping and open fires within the park area.
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Parking
Large car parks are available in Zernez and at designated points along the Ofenpass road. As capacities can be limited, traveling by public transport is highly recommended for visitors.
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Safety
Be sure to stay on the marked paths to protect the flora and avoid hazards such as rockfall. The weather in the high mountains can change extremely quickly and unexpectedly at any time.
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Time needed
Plan at least one full day to enjoy the nature. Many visitors stay for several days in the region to explore the different valleys and various routes of the national park area.

Geography

Coordinates
46.66670, 10.16670

Facts

  • The park was officially established on August 1, 1914.
  • The total protected area covers 170.3 square kilometers.
  • The highest peak in the park is Piz Pisoc at 3,174 meters.
  • There are over 80 kilometers of marked hiking trails available.
  • The park is home to a population of approximately 1,500 red deer.
  • Since 1979, the park has been part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

GuardaGuarda12 km · NExplore →
LivignoLivigno14 km · SExplore →
Piz S-charl WestPiz S-charl West15 km · NEExplore →
Piz S-charl EastPiz S-charl East16 km · NEExplore →
ZuozZuoz17 km · SWExplore →
ScuolScuol18 km · NEExplore →
Piz BuinPiz Buin19 km · NExplore →
Piz d'Es-cha V2Piz d'Es-cha V221 km · WExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Swiss National Park (4)

Swiss National Park🌿 nature

The oldest national park in the Alps and Switzerland's only major protected area.

Piz Terza📍 landmark

A mountain peak in the Grisons Alps on the border with Italy.

Piz dal Fuorn📍 landmark

A prominent peak located within the Swiss National Park area.

Muottas Champlönch📍 landmark

A mountain peak in the Engadine region of the Swiss National Park.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is it allowed to leave the hiking trails?
No, there is a strict rule to stay on the paths in the national park to protect nature.
Are there entrance fees?
Entry to the park is free, but the visitor center in Zernez has a fee.
Are dogs allowed?
No, dogs are not allowed in the Swiss National Park.
Can one see marmots?
Yes, on sunny days you can often see and hear them on the alpine meadows.
Is camping allowed?
No, staying overnight outdoors is strictly forbidden to protect wildlife.
Swiss National Park: where is it located?
Swiss National Park is located in Switzerland.
Swiss National Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Swiss National Park, Piz Terza, Piz dal Fuorn.
Swiss National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Swiss National Park: why is it worth visiting?
The Swiss National Park in the canton of Graubünden is the oldest protected area of its kind in the Alps and Central Europe.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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