Uzhanian National Nature Park

In 1908, when the Transcarpathia still belonged to the Austro-Hungarian Empire, a nature reserve in the upper valley of the Stuzhychanka River to protect the beech forest landscape. The area of the reserve was 331.8 hectares (1.281 sq mi). At the same time, a forest reserve of the area of 14.9 hectares (0.058 sq mi) was created in the upper valley of the Uzh River. Between 1919 and 1938, the Transcarpathia belonged to Czechoslovakia, and both reserves were considerably expanded in area. Another reserve was created on the Yavirnyk Mountain. After World War II, the area was completely neglected, and mass timber production started.[3] In 1974, during the Soviet period, Stuzhitsia Forest Landscape Zakaznik was established. The area of the zakaznik was 2,542 hectares (9.81 sq mi). In 1995, the zakaznik was upgraded to a regional landscape park, and in 1999 to a national nature park.[1]

The park is located in the valleys of the Uzh River and its tributaries in the western slopes of the Carpathian Mountains. The highest point of the park is Kinchyk Bukovskyi Mountain (1,251 metres (4,104 ft)). Uzhanian National Nature Park contains four altitude zones, including beech forest, alder forest, and, above 1,100 metres (3,600 ft), alpine meadows. Climate is temperate, with the annual rainfall being around (900 millimetres (35 in), and temperatures in winter below zero, so that the mountains are covered by snow.[1]

There are over 1500 species of plants in the park; about 22 of vascular plant species are endemic, and 52 species, including 23 species of orchids, are protected at the national level.[1]

Big mammals include red deer, roe deer, wild boar, red fox, and badger. There are 114 bird species.[1]

The area is populated by Lemkos and has a strong influence of their culture. In particular, six wooden churches built in 17th-18th centuries survived inside the park.[1]

17 trails are signposted within the park.[1]