This October, Serbia’s Kopaonik Mountain witnessed a remarkable weather event — a snow cover measuring 59 centimeters, breaking the all-time October record for the highest snow depth since measurements began. The previous record was set in 1962, at 56 cm, making this year’s snowfall truly historic.
Meteorologists explain that a sudden drop in temperature combined with intense precipitation created the perfect conditions for a stable snowpack, which is expected to remain for several days.
Kopaonik – The Heart of Serbian Winter
Known as “Silver Mountain”, Kopaonik is the largest mountain massif in Serbia and one of the country’s top year-round destinations. With Pančić’s Peak rising to 2,017 meters, it’s a beloved spot for skiers, hikers, and nature lovers.
While the first snow usually arrives in late October or early November, such abundant early snowfall is rare, reminiscent of winters from decades past when cold and snow came much earlier than they do today.
October on Kopaonik – Between Autumn Colors and Snowy Peaks
October is a magical transitional period on Kopaonik, showcasing two distinct faces of the mountain: golden autumn forests and the first white blanket of winter.
Although the ski season has not officially started, October is perfect for:
- 🍂 Hiking and walking along the well-marked trails of the national park
- 📸 Photography, as the contrast between colorful foliage and fresh snow is spectacular
- 🏞 Visiting natural landmarks like Jelovarnik Waterfall, Pančić’s Peak, and scenic viewpoints
- ☕ Relaxing in mountain hotels and spas, many of which offer early-season deals
Winter Season Preparations Begin Early
The abundant October snow has accelerated preparations for the official winter season, which usually kicks off in early December. Kopaonik’s ski center has started grooming the slopes, testing ski lifts, and readying snowmaking systems to ensure everything is prepared for the first wave of skiers.
Tourism experts say that early snowfall is a great sign for the upcoming season, sparking increased interest from both domestic and foreign visitors who want to experience real snow even before winter officially begins.
📝 Snow Facts and Figures about Kopaonik
- 🌨 Average snow depth in winter ranges between 100 and 150 cm, with historical records exceeding 2 meters.
- ❄ The ski season typically lasts from November to May, one of the longest in the region.
- 📆 The first ski lift was installed in 1964. Today, Kopaonik boasts over 55 km of ski slopes and more than 20 lifts.
