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Parks

Kôprová dolina

4.8 · 875 reviews
Quiet, wild, and rugged
Kôprová dolina, Mláka 3/4, 029 01 Námestovo, Slovakia
Interesting facts
1

The valley represents one of the few remaining primary forest ecosystems in the High Tatras.

2

It is historically significant as a site for 19th-century gold mining attempts which were largely unsuccessful.

3

The valley floor serves as a major migration path for large carnivores moving between the High and Western Tatras.

4

A massive windstorm in 2004 significantly altered the forest structure in the lower parts of the valley.

5

The trail leading through the valley is one of the few high-altitude routes accessible to mountain bikers in the national park.

Overview

Kôprová dolina is a significant glacial valley located in the High Tatras, characterized by its extensive spruce and fir forests and alpine meadows. The valley stretches approximately 11 kilometers from the junction with Tichá dolina to the base of the Kriváň mountain peak. It serves as a vital corridor for brown bears, lynx, and wolves due to its preserved wild habitat within the Tatra National Park. The Kôprovský potok stream flows through the valley floor, feeding into the Tichý potok. Visitors traverse the area primarily via marked hiking trails that connect to higher altitude mountain passes. The landscape features deep U-shaped glacial carving typical of the central Tatra range. It acts as a primary drainage basin for the surrounding mountain ridges.

Photo spot

The bridge crossing over the Kôprovský potok with Kriváň peak in the background.

Insider tips

Carry bear spray and store food in airtight containers to avoid attracting local wildlife.

Wear high-traction hiking boots as the valley floor can remain muddy long after rainfall.

Check for temporary trail closures at the Podbanské ranger station before entering.

What to avoid

Attempting to venture off-trail, as the area is a strictly protected nature reserve.

Good to know

Select hiking trails are closed annually during the winter season to protect wildlife.

Etiquette

Stay strictly on marked trails to protect the Tatra chamois and marmot habitats; noise must be kept to a minimum.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
4-6 hours
Best time to visit
Early autumn for stable weather and less humidity, or late spring when wildflowers bloom.
Address
Kôprová dolina, Mláka 3/4, 029 01 Námestovo, Slovakia
49.186, 19.996
Get directions
Details
Terrain TypeGlacial U-shaped valley
Permitted ActivitiesHiking and mountain biking

Frequently asked

Plan for about 4-6 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early autumn for stable weather and less humidity, or late spring when wildflowers bloom..

The bridge crossing over the Kôprovský potok with Kriváň peak in the background.

Close by you'll find Kriváň, Morskie Oko, Kasprowy Wierch.