The Tatra Mountains are part of the Carpathian mountain range located in southern Poland and northern Slovakia. They contain some of the highest peaks in Europe and provide alpine landscapes inhabited by an ethnic group called gorale. The mountains are home to many endangered species and protected areas, with the highest point in Poland being Rysy at 2,499 meters. The Tatras change appearance dramatically depending on the season, from snow-covered in winter to violet-hued in spring.