The Swiss National Park is a strictly protected wilderness area in south-eastern Switzerland, where flora and fauna can develop freely and natural processes are allowed to run their course unhindered. Thanks to the vision of far-sighted pioneers Switzerland’s first national park, the oldest in the Alps, was founded more than 100 years ago. According to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) the Swiss National Park (SNP) belongs to the highest category – the «Champions League» – of strict nature reserves. Such a high status carries obligations. Within the Park it is not permitted to leave the marked paths; it is prohibited to pick flowers, mow meadows, kill animals or cut down trees. Nature is left untouched; nothing must be changed.
It is not just a question of protection of species; the entire habitat, with all its natural dynamic processes, is strictly protected – fallen trees, avalanches and mudslides also come into this category. The comprehensive and consistent philosophy that has been a crucial element of the SNP since its foundation on 1st August 1914 also guarantees its future development.
Wilderness areas offer unique opportunities to learn about and understand the complexity of natural processes. In treating Nature respectfully we ensure that these havens remain unspoilt so that future generations will also be able to experience the wonders of an untouched natural world. Guided excursions, nature trails, teacher training courses, activities for children and schools, lectures, exhibitions, digital walking guides, and various publications: all these are elements of the snp’s environmental awareness programme.
Excursions in the National Park offer a fascinating experience amidst a truly natural landscape. It is well worth visiting the National Park Centre before setting off. The permanent exhibition, with its interactive, hands-on displays takes you on a stimulating journey of discovery. Themed exhibits provide food for thought, prompting visitors to look further afield, raising questions for discussion. Scientific facts, philosophical questions and mystical elements intermingle. Staff on the information desk provide competent assistance and up to date information on walks and guided excursions, and on the state of the paths. Zernez Tourist Information is also situated in the visitor centre.
Walking in an untouched natural environment, observing marmots close to, seeing edelweiss growing alongside the path, looking out for a sighting of a bearded vulture, chatting with a Park warden: these are all unforgettable experiences that leave a lasting impression. The SNP has put together a vast amount of information with the aim of giving visitors a clear idea of how nature interconnects; we hope this will encourage visitors to join us in protecting our natural environment.
If you want to admire the myriad colours of the alpine flora, we recommend a visit during the months of June and July. This is also the best time to observe young animals. For walks at higher altitudes, such as the Macun lake plateau or Fuorcla Val Sassa, it is best to come in July or August.
The second half of September sees the spectacular rutting season of the red deer. During October the larch forests of the Engadine turn to dazzling gold. Come winter the National Park is closed, allowing the animals to spend the hardest months of the year in their winter quarters, with no disturbance.
www.nationalpark.ch
The nutcracker is the sybol of the Swiss National Park
The best time to see alpine flowers is in June and July
The Cluozza Valley became the first valley of the National Park
Marmots in the Swiss National Park
The Mingèr Valley in the northern part of the Park
The rutting season of the red deer takes place in September
Piz Pisoc, highest mountain of the Park
In the Swiss National Park, fallen trees are part of the natural dynamic
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