Brankov waterfall, National nature monument in Ružomberok District, Slovakia.
Brankov waterfall is a water flow cascading over limestone cliffs in the western part of the Low Tatras, creating multiple natural steps and stone terraces. The stream flows through dense mountain forest where rocky formations line the streambed.
The formation developed through millennia of water erosion carving through limestone layers in the region. The site received protected status as a national nature monument in 1980 when it became part of the Low Tatras National Park.
The waterfall serves as a meeting point for local hikers who regularly traverse the mountain paths connecting remote villages with the highlands. The site reflects how communities maintain ties to their surrounding forest landscape through regular movement and shared routes.
Access is via a marked forest trail from the Podlesok parking area, which takes about half an hour and passes through woodland. The ground can be slippery when wet, so sturdy footwear is advisable.
In winter, the waterfall transforms into an ice formation as water freezes against the limestone cliffs and creates natural ice sculptures. This phenomenon makes the site appear completely different from its warmer-season appearance.
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