Tree Top Walk: Discover the National Park from Above

In the heart of Central Europe lies a remarkable attraction high above the ground. The Tree Top Walk is situated near the village of Malá Franková, nestled within the diverse forests of Pieniny National Park.

This wooden path, opened in 2017, winds through the beech forest canopy. It offers stunning views of the Belianske Tatras and the surrounding Bachledova Valley. The walk combines the natural beauty of the High Tatras with modern architecture, allowing visitors to connect with the ecosystem without disrupting its delicate balance.

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How to Get to Bachledova Valley and the Walk

This popular destination is located in the Zamagurie region of northeastern Slovakia, within Pieniny National Park, known for its exceptional nature and year-round activities. A major attraction here is the wooden tree top walk.

Bachledova Valley is accessible by car or public transport from places like Ždiar or Poprad. You can hike to the walk from Malá Franková and Jezersko. In winter, a ski bus, which is free, also operates.

From there, a cable car or hiking trail leads to the walk. The quickest way is the 10-seat Bachledka Gondola, departing from the valley's paid parking lot. The gondola ride to the Spišská Magura ridge, where the entrance to the tree top walk is located, takes under 10 minutes.

On foot, the hike takes about 40 to 60 minutes, depending on your pace. The trail starts at the Bachledova Valley parking lot and follows a marked forest road with scenic views.

The tree top walk is open year-round. Check the opening hours in advance, as they vary by season. Typically, it's open from 9:00 to 18:00 (17:00) in summer and until 16:00 in winter. At the top, you'll find several buffets, restaurants, and a tranquil setting.

Bachledova Valley is ideal for families with children, couples, and nature lovers. Here, you can enjoy breathtaking views amidst Tatra nature.

Tree Top Walk

Set against the Belianske Tatras, the wooden path stretches over 1,200 meters and rises to a maximum height of 24 meters. The tree top walk is barrier-free and accessible to everyone, including families with small children and those with limited mobility.

Along the path, you'll find several educational panels detailing local wildlife, plant life, and ecology.

The walk leads to a 32-meter high viewing tower, offering a 360-degree view of the Belianske Tatras, Pieniny, and the surrounding areas. Like the path, it features educational stops. At the tower's center, a solid net awaits adventurous visitors, providing a view of the ground below. A long adrenaline slide offers a quick descent.

The path's design and the viewing tower were engineered to minimize impact on the natural environment of the national park's diverse forests. Natural materials like wood were used to help it blend seamlessly into its surroundings.

A key goal of this project is to support biodiversity and protect local wildlife and plant life. The tree top walk traverses forests with rare species highlighted on educational panels. From the forest floor to the treetops, where many birds and small animals reside.

Visitors can enjoy all seasons here, from lush greenery to autumn's vibrant colors, a winter wonderland, and spring's renewal. The walk in Bachledova Valley also offers guided tours for those who want to explore the area's secrets further.

Other Activities You Can Experience in Bachledova Valley

Beyond the Tree Top Walk, Bachledova Valley offers numerous activities. The region features several hiking and cycling trails, especially popular in summer and autumn. These trails lead through majestic forests and colorful meadows, where you'll find an adrenaline bobsled track and a rope center for all ages to test their courage.

Bachledova Valley is also home to one of the region's most renowned ski resorts, Bachledka Ski & Sun. The resort offers over 10 km of groomed slopes of varying difficulty, catering to beginners, families with children, and experienced skiers. Freestyle enthusiasts will enjoy the snowpark with obstacles and jumps. In winter, explore Bachledova Valley on cross-country skis along trails through Pieniny National Park.

The modern development of Bachledova Valley began in the 1980s with the construction of the first lifts and slopes. It quickly became a popular spot for winter sports and summer hiking. A major milestone was 2017, when the suspended wooden path opened, boosting tourism. Today, it's known as a year-round destination offering natural and sporting experiences.

Conclusion

The Tree Top Walk was inspired by similar international projects. Adapted to the Tatra environment, it became the first of its kind in Slovakia, securing its unique place in the region.

In Germany, the Baumwipfelpfad in the Bavarian Forest National Park was the first tree top walk in the world built above the treetops. Opened in 2009, it has become a top tourist attraction. The Bavarian path is 1.3 km long, making it one of the longest tree top walks globally. Like in Slovakia, it features a 44-meter high viewing tower. Its spiral design ensures easy access for families, seniors, and those in wheelchairs.

The guiding principle from the Bavarian Forest National Park is “let nature be nature.” This means minimal human intervention. The Baumwipfelpfad respects the natural environment, promoting tourism without harming the forest. The path includes educational elements to raise awareness about tree and biodiversity protection.

Since the Bavarian Forest National Park borders the Czech park Šumava, together they form Central Europe's largest contiguous green area, covering over 100,000 hectares, known as the “Green Roof of Europe.” From the Bavarian viewing tower, you can see the Šumava Mountains and, on clear days, the snow-capped Alps.