The Babia Góra National Park, established in 1954, is a true natural treasure of Poland. Located in the Małopolska province, it encompasses the Babia Góra massif and adjacent areas, protecting unique ecosystems and rare plant and animal species. The park is headquartered in Zawoja, at 34-223 Zawoja, Poland. It is from here that most trips to Babia Gora begin.

Getting to the park is relatively easy. From Krakow you can get here by bus or minibus, the trip takes about 2-3 hours. For motorists, national road No. 7 leads to Sucha Beskidzka, from where you should head to Zawoja. It is worth remembering that the parking lot at the entrance to the park in Zawoja Markowa can be crowded during the season, so it is recommended to arrive early in the morning.

The park is accessible all year round, but conditions on the trails can vary significantly depending on the season. In winter, some trails may be closed for safety reasons. For up-to-date information on trail availability, visit the park's official website: http://www.bgpn.pl/.

Babia Góra National Park offers many attractions for the whole family. Educational trails, such as 'Wet Kozub' or 'How do we protect Babia Góra nature?" are great options for the youngest. For older children and adults, the park has prepared more challenging trails, including the famous Academic Perć, leading to the top of Diablak.

Before setting out on a trail, it is worth visiting the BgPN Education Center in Zawoja Baranecowa. There you can stock up on maps, guidebooks and get valuable information from park staff. Admission prices to the park are moderate, and children under the age of 7 enter for free. Current prices can be checked on the park's website.

It is worth remembering that Babia Gora is famous for its unpredictable weather. Therefore, when planning a trip, be prepared for changing weather conditions. Proper trekking shoes, warm and waterproof clothing, and a supply of water and food are the basis for a successful trip.

Babia Gora National Park is not only Babia Gora. There are many other attractions in the area, such as the open-air museum in Zawoja Markowa, showing the traditional architecture and culture of the region, or the picturesque waterfalls on the Jaworzyna stream. For nature lovers, the park offers the opportunity to observe rare species of birds, including capercaillie and owl.

The trail to Diablak, the highest peak of Babia Góra (1725 meters above sea level), is a real gem among mountain trails in Poland. The most popular and at the same time the most demanding route is the yellow trail, known as Perć Akademicka. It begins at the PTTK shelter in Markowy Szczawiny and leads steeply upward, offering unforgettable impressions and views.

Before setting out on the trail, you should carefully assess your capabilities. Perć Akademicka is a route of about 2.5 km in length, which takes an average of 1.5-2 hours to complete. It is a one-way trail, designed exclusively for ascent. It is characterized by a significant incline and requires good physical fitness. On the route there are elements such as chains and ladders, which help to overcome the most difficult sections.

For families with children, the blue trail, known as Upper Plaj, may be more suitable. It is gentler and safer, although slightly longer. It leads through picturesque forests and pastures, offering beautiful views of the surrounding peaks. Walking time along this route is about 3-4 hours.

Regardless of the route you choose, be sure to prepare properly. Sturdy trekking shoes with good grip are a must. It is worth taking trekking poles with you, which make the trek much easier, especially when descending. Clothing should be layered - even on warm days it can be chilly and windy on the summit.

While hiking, pay attention to the unique vegetation of Babia Gora. The park is famous for its storied vegetation system, where plant species change with increasing altitude. This is an excellent opportunity for nature education for the youngest.

At the top of Diablak there is a characteristic obelisk and a board with a panoramic view. On sunny days, from here you can enjoy a sweeping panorama encompassing the Tatra Mountains, Mala Fatra and even the distant peaks of the Alps. This is an ideal place to relax and take souvenir photos.

Keep in mind that conditions at the summit can differ dramatically from those at the foot of the mountain. Fog, strong wind or sudden chill are common phenomena on Babia Góra. That's why it's always a good idea to bring a warm jacket, hat and gloves, even in summer.

For those who want to experience a real mountain adventure, it is possible to spend the night at the PTTK shelter in Markowy Szczawiny. This allows for an early start to the summit and admiring the sunrise from Diablak - a view that remains in the memory for a long time.

Remember that safety is paramount. Before setting out on the trail, check the weather forecast and adjust your hiking plan to the current conditions. If in doubt, it's always a good idea to consult park staff or GOPR.

Babia Góra is not just a destination for mountain lovers. It is a place full of legends, history and mysteries waiting to be discovered. One of the most famous is the legend of the sleeping knights who are supposed to awaken when Poland is in greatest need. Another tells of witches who were said to meet for Sabbaths at the top of the mountain. These legends add a magical touch to the place and are a great topic of conversation with children during the hike.

For nature lovers, Babiogórski National Park offers extraordinary opportunities to observe rare plant and animal species. Look out for endemic plants such as deer whorl and alpine hornwort, which are found only in this region. Bird lovers, on the other hand, can look out for rare species such as the capercaillie and the owl.

For those who want to deepen their knowledge of the region, we recommend a visit to the Babia Góra National Park Museum in Zawoja. The exhibition introduces the history, culture and nature of this unique place. It's a perfect complement to a mountain trip, especially in case of bad weather.

The culture and traditions of the Babia Góra region are also worth noting. Local folklore festivals, such as 'Babiogórska Autumn', offer the opportunity to learn about the music, dances and crafts characteristic of the area. This is a great opportunity for children to experience the living traditions of the Babia Góra Highlanders.

For families with children, the park offers special educational programs. Nature workshops, field games or night sky observations are just some of the suggestions. It is worth contacting the BgPN Education Center to learn more about current offers.

If you are planning a longer stay in the area, consider visiting nearby attractions. The open-air museum in Zawoja, the historic churches in Lachowice or Sidzina, and the picturesque biking trails in Beskid Zywiec are just some of the suggestions.

Let's remember that Babiogórski National Park is a protected area. During our visit, it is important that we observe the rules of nature protection. Let's not go off the trails, let's not pick plants and let's not disturb wild animals. Let's teach children the importance of preserving nature for future generations.

In conclusion, a trip to Babia Gora is not only a physical challenge, but above all an unforgettable adventure and a lesson in nature. Whether you decide to climb to the top or take a leisurely stroll through the lower parts of the park, you are sure to bring back wonderful memories and a desire to preserve nature. from here wonderful memories and a desire to return.

Let's remember that Babia Góra, though beautiful, can be demanding. Always be prepared for changing weather conditions and adjust the tour plan to the capabilities of the youngest participants. Safety is paramount, so do not hesitate to turn back if conditions become too difficult.

Discovering the mysteries of Babia Góra is an adventure that can last for years. Each season reveals a new face of this majestic mountain, encouraging more visits and explorations. Whether we are experienced hikers or just beginning our adventure with the mountains, Babia Gora has something to offer everyone. It is a place that remains in the memory and heart for a long time, inviting us to return and discover more and more secrets of the queen of the Beskids.