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About this place
Swiss National Park (German: Schweizerischer Nationalpark, Romansh: Parc Naziunal Svizzer) lies in the Lower Engadine in the canton of Graubünden, with the village of Zernez as its gateway. It is Switzerland's only national park and the oldest in the Alps, founded on 1 August 1914. Nature protection comes before recreation here, so the rules are stricter than in most parks.
What makes this park different?
The IUCN ranks it in category I, a strict nature reserve, a level above ordinary national parks (category II). It borders Italy's Stelvio National Park. The Ofenpass road (Pass dal Fuorn) crosses the area and, apart from the hiking trails, is the only human use of the land. Everything else is left to develop on its own.
What will you see?
Wildlife you may meet includes ibex, chamois, red deer and marmots, plus many alpine bird species. The scenery mixes mountain pine forest, meadows and high scree slopes. There are 21 marked hiking routes and 18 rest areas, which suits both a short stroll and a full-day trek.
Where do you start?
Begin in Zernez at the National Park Centre, housed in a building that opened in 2008. It has an exhibition on wilderness, rotating special shows, binoculars to borrow, and an information desk for trail conditions and guided tours. The park administration sits in Wildenberg Castle in Zernez. Exhibition entry is CHF 9 for adults. From mid-May to the end of October the centre is open daily, 8.30 am to 6 pm; outside the season hours are shorter, so check nationalpark.ch before you travel.
What are the rules?
- Stay on the marked paths and designated rest areas.
- Dogs are banned, even on a lead.
- No campfires, cycling or drones.
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring my dog? No. The ban covers all dogs, including those on a lead, and dogs are also not allowed in the exhibition rooms in Zernez.
Can I leave the path for a photo? No. Leaving the marked paths and rest areas is strictly forbidden.
Is there an entrance fee? The trails are free to walk. The exhibition at the Zernez centre costs CHF 9 for adults.
Where do I get route information? At the centre in Zernez, by phone on +41 81 851 41 41, or at nationalpark.ch.
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