Dynamics of natural processes

Slovak Paradise National Park, with its diverse landscape and rich biodiversity, offers a unique view of the dynamics of natural processes. This territory in Slovakia fascinates not only with its rock formations and waterfalls, but also with the dynamic changes taking place in its ecosystems.

In this article, we will analyse what factors influence and shape natural processes in the Slovak Paradise National Park, as well as their importance for the preservation of this unique environment.

Dynamics of canyons

In the canons of this park, the dynamics of spontaneous natural processes are fascinating. The trees that grow bravely on the steep, inaccessible rock walls are witnesses to the tireless work of nature.

The trees’ growth and development are constantly influenced by weight, weather conditions and erosion forces. Although these trees have their roots anchored in the rocks, their fate is uncertain. From time to time, due to uneven growth, weight or the action of a wide range of natural factors, some of them collapse to the bottom of the canyon. This phenomenon is not only a natural event, but also part of a constantly changing ecosystem.

This dynamic of nature contribute to the creation of new living spaces and connect to the constant circle of life in this unique natural environment.

Trees fall again and again

In the Slovak Paradise National Park, the sliding of trees along with their roots from the steep rocky slopes to the bottom of the canyons is a regular event. One of the locations where this often happens is the Prielom Hornádu Canyon. Here the falls of trees from the steep rocky slopes to the bottom of the canyon

In the Slovak Paradise National Park, the sliding of trees along with their roots from the steep rocky slopes to the bottom of the canyons is a regular event. One of the locations where this often happens is the Prielom Hornádu Canyon. Here the falling of trees from the steep rocky slopes to the bottom of the canyon is frequent. These events have significant impact on the dynamics of this environment. The area is accessible to tourists only along marked trails or with guide.

We have witnessed several such events in the recent past. For example, in 2018, large trees collapsed in the Prielom Hornádu area, which limited access to tourist routes. A year later, in 2019, a similar event happened near the well known tourist attraction Devil’s Gate. In 2021, a landslide was recorded in this area again and that caused the temporary closure of part of the trails.

Landslides often close canyons

At the end of 2023, a landslide occurred in the Tiesňava valley near Stratená Village, during which the entire slope with the hiking trail and safety chains slid down to the stream. Tiesňava valley has been closed to the public since then. Because the repair will require the construction of a new hiking trail with technical access devices, it is expected to be a long-term closure.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it can be summarized that the dynamics of spontaneous natural processes in the core zone of the Slovak Paradise National Park play a key role in the creation and maintenance of the unique character of this territory. Downslides of trees and slides of rock blocks are an integral part of the dynamics of this natural landscape.

The protection of these processes and the preservation of wild, unchanged nature in the core zone of this national park is a priority. It is important that human interventions in this environment are minimized and that natural dynamics are allowed to operate freely. This approach to nature protection ensures that the wild beauty and uniqueness of this land will also meet the international wilderness quality criteria.