Discover the Czech Mountains: 5 scenic hiking trails
April 11, 2025
The Czech mountains are a true paradise for hikers and nature lovers. Picturesque landscapes, fascinating rock formations and unforgettable views are waiting to be discovered. In this article, we will present 5 of the most beautiful hiking trails that will delight both adults and children. Each of these trails offers unique experiences and opportunities for close contact with nature. Whether you're an experienced hiker or planning your first mountain hike with your family, these trails are sure to provide an unforgettable experience. Get ready to explore rock towns, admire waterfalls and climb peaks with panoramic views. The Czech mountains are waiting to amaze you with their beauty and diversity!
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Karkonosze - royal trails and breathtaking views
Start our adventure with the Krkonoše Mountains, the highest mountain range in the Czech Republic, which hides real natural treasures. The Krkonoše National Park is where you'll find trails for everyone - from easy family trails to challenging mountain hikes.
One of the most spectacular places in Krkonoše is the Pančavský waterfall (Pančavský vodopád), the highest waterfall in the Czech Republic. To reach this impressive natural wonder, take the trail from Špindlerův Mlýn. The trail leads through picturesque forests and meadows, offering beautiful views of the valley along the way. The waterfall itself, falling from a height of 148 meters, is very impressive, especially in spring, when melting snows increase its flow.
For families with children, we recommend the route to the Source of the Elbe (Pramen Labe). This is a relatively easy trail that starts at the Labská bouda chalet. The hike takes about an hour one way and is accessible even to the youngest hikers. At the site you will find the symbolic source of one of Europe's most important rivers and a wall with the coats of arms of the cities through which the Elbe flows.
More experienced hikers may be tempted to climb the highest peak in the Czech Republic - Sněžka (1,603 meters above sea level). Ascent to the summit is possible from several directions, but the most popular route leads from Pec pod Sněžkou. The hike takes about 2.5-3 hours one way and requires good fitness. On the summit is the distinctive St. Lawrence Chapel and a weather station. On sunny days there is an amazing view of the Giant Mountains and surrounding mountain ranges.
It is worth remembering that Karkonosze is an area of changeable weather, so you should always be prepared for sudden cooling or precipitation. Necessary equipment includes comfortable trekking shoes, warm and waterproof clothing, a supply of water and snacks. To be safe, it is a good idea to carry a map and a phone with a charged battery.
The Giant Mountains National Park is open year-round, but some trails may be closed in winter for safety reasons. For up-to-date information on the status of the trails, visit the park's official website: https://www.krnap.cz/. Admission to the park is free, but you have to pay for parking at popular starting points (about 50-100 CZK per day).
The nearest large city is Liberec, from where you can take a bus to major tourist destinations in the Giant Mountains, such as Špindlerův Mlýn and Pec pod Sněžkou. There are also special tourist buses during the summer season, making it easier to get around the region.
Adršpašskoteplické skály - a fairytale world of rock formations
Another place that is sure to delight both adults and children is Adršpašskoteplické skály, also known as the Rock Town of Adršpach-Teplice. This is one of the most unusual places in the Czech Republic, where nature has created a veritable maze of rock towers, gorges and lakes.
The Rock Town is located in northeastern Bohemia, in the Hradec Králové region. The nearest major town is Trutnov, from where you can take a bus to Adršpach. From there, the entrance to the reserve is just a few minutes' walk away.
The main tourist route is about 4 km long and leads through the most interesting rock formations. The hike takes an average of 2-3 hours, but it's worth reserving more time to enjoy the surroundings and take photos in peace. The trail is well marked and mostly protected by railings, making it accessible also to families with children.
During the walk you will see such attractions as the Great Waterfall, Adršpaš Lake and the famous 'Lovers' rock formation. Many of the rocks are given names that spark the imagination - 'Head of Sugar', 'Old Man and Old Woman' or 'Jug'. For the brave, there are also narrow passages between the rocks, such as 'Mousie Hole'.
For families with children, a boat cruise on Adršpaš Lake may be particularly attractive. It's a short, 15-minute tour, during which a guide tells legends related to the Rock Town. Cruises take place from April to October, depending on the weather and water levels.
Important practical information:
- The reserve is open all year round, but the best time to visit is April-October.
- Entrance tickets cost about 180 CZK for adults and 60 CZK for children (as of 2023). You can check the current prices on the official website: https://www.skalyadrspach.cz/
- At the entrance there is a large parking lot (paid), toilets and refreshment facilities.
- It is advisable to bring comfortable trekking shoes, as some sections of the trail can be slippery.
- The place can get quite crowded during the summer season, so it is recommended to arrive early in the morning or on weekdays.
For those looking for longer trails, we recommend combining a visit to Adršpašské skaly (Adršpaš Rocks) with the neighboring Teplice Rocks. A 7-kilometer trail runs between the two complexes, allowing you to see less traveled but equally spectacular rock formations.
Also worth a visit in the area is Adršpach Castle, located on a rock above the village. Although preserved only in ruins, it offers beautiful views of the surrounding area and is an interesting addition to a visit to the Rock Town.
Adršpašskoteplické skály is a place that is sure to be memorable for any visitor. The combination of unusual rock formations, lush vegetation and legends makes you feel like you are in a fairy tale world here. This is an ideal destination for a day trip for the whole family, combining active recreation with discovering the wonders of nature.
Prachovské skály and Bohemian Switzerland - a paradise for lovers of climbing and views
To conclude our journey in the Czech mountains, we will present two places that will delight lovers of climbing and spectacular views: Prachovské rocks and the Bohemian Switzerland National Park.
Prachovské Skály (Prachov Rocks) is a picturesque complex of sandstone rock formations located in Bohemian Paradise, about 5 km west of the town of Jičín. It is an ideal place for both families with children and more experienced climbers.
The main tourist route is about 3.5 kilometers long and leads through the most interesting corners of the reserve. Along the way you pass narrow passages between rocks, climb stairs and enjoy the views from numerous vantage points. We especially recommend the 'Vyhlídka Míru' viewing platform, which offers a panoramic view of the entire Prachov Rocks and surrounding forests.
For families with children, there is an educational trail 'Skalní město', which presents the geology and history of the place in an accessible way. More advanced hikers can choose a longer, 5-kilometer trail that leads through less frequented parts of the reserve.
Important information:
- The reserve is open year-round, but the best time to visit is April-October.
- Entrance tickets cost about 100 CZK for adults and 50 CZK for children (as of 2023). You can check current prices at: http://www.prachovskeskaly.cz/
- There is parking, toilets and refreshment facilities at the entrance.
- It is advisable to bring comfortable shoes with good traction, as some sections of the trail can be slippery.
Our final destination is České Švýcarsko (Czech Switzerland) National Park, known for its impressive rock formations and picturesque landscapes. The park's main attraction is Pravčická brána (Pravčická Gate), the largest natural rock bridge in Europe.
The trail to Pravčická brána begins in the village of Hřensko. The trail is about 6 km long in both directions and is quite demanding due to the steep ascent. The hike takes about 2-3 hours. On site, in addition to admiring the gate itself, it is worth climbing to the viewing platforms, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding area.
For families with children, we recommend a trip to Edmundova soutěsky, a picturesque gorge that can be explored by boat. This is a quieter and easier alternative, which also allows you to admire the beauty of the rock formations.
Important information about the Czech Switzerland National Park:
- The park is open all year round, but some attractions (like boat cruises) operate only from April to October.
- Admission to the park is free, but there are fees for some attractions (such as entry to the viewing platforms at Pravčice Gate).
- The nearest larger town is Děčín, from where you can take a bus to Hřensko.
- It is advisable to bring comfortable trekking shoes, a supply of water and snacks, as there are few refreshment centers on the trails.
Both Prachovské Skály and Bohemian Switzerland offer unforgettable views and opportunities for close contact with nature. These places are ideal for day or weekend trips, allowing you to discover the beauty of the Czech mountains and forests.
All in all, the Czech mountains offer an incredible variety of hiking trails that will satisfy both families with children and experienced hikers. From the majestic peaks of the Giant Mountains, to the fairytale rock labyrinths of Adršpach, to the impressive formations of Czech Switzerland, each of these places has its own unique atmosphere and beauty. Whether you're looking for leisurely walks or more challenging trails, the Czech mountains certainly won't disappoint you. Remember to always be well prepared, respect nature and enjoy every moment spent in nature!
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