Nature reserve Szklarki Valley

Nature Reserve Szklarki Valley is a protected forest area in Kraków County, covering rocky slopes along the Szklarka stream between Szklary and Jerzmanowice villages in the Małopolskie region. The landscape features limestone cliffs and diverse woodlands, including beech and sycamore species typical of this part of the Carpathians.

The area received protection status in 1989 to safeguard its forest communities and limestone formations within the Kraków Valleys Landscape Park. This designation reflected growing efforts to preserve the natural ecosystems of the Małopolskie region.

Local residents maintain traditional ecological practices while scientists conduct research on the reserve's Carpathian beech forests and mountain sycamore communities.

A marked red hiking trail departs from Szklary village and provides access through the entire protected forest area, with clear signage along the route. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and bring weather-appropriate clothing, as the terrain includes steep slopes.

The reserve features a natural monument containing a lower Carboniferous limestone crag crossed by a distinctive porphyry vein near the Pióro spring. This geological formation reveals how different rock types intersect within the site.