Explore the Krkonoše Mountains: Your Ultimate Adventure Awaits!

Are you planning a trip to the Krkonoše Mountains and keen on having an active adventure? If so, we invite you to take on our challenge and try to climb some of the local peaks, many of which are recognized as the highest mountains in the Czech Republic. We won’t rely on cable cars for the climb; instead, we will enjoy the journey to the top or at least to the ridge by hiking from the base. Some of the mountains are off-limits to tourists, but we will navigate them legally using marked hiking trails, allowing you to check them off your dream list. So, where will our trails take us? Most routes will begin either in Pec pod Sněžkou or in Špindlerův Mlýn.

Hiking to Snezka for the brave

Snezka (1603 m) is definitely not one of those hidden gems, but since our destination is a mountain trail, especially the most challenging one, you might not encounter a constant stream of tourists. For a rewarding hike granting over 800 meters in elevation gain, start from Pec pod Sněžkou, making your way through the breathtaking Giant’s Hole. The landscape was shaped by the Quaternary Úpský glacier, which carved out a substantial valley known as the Giant Mine. As you follow the trail, expect a consistent uphill trek covering 6.6 kilometers with an overall elevation gain of 817 meters. Along the way, after reaching the chapel in the Giant Mine, you’ll find a nature trail titled The destruction of the Krkonoše forest, which explores the life cycle of the spruce forest. After overcoming the final stretch of the Giant’s Hole, a blue-marked sign will take you to the former Giant’s Hut. The last kilometer leading to the summit of Sněžka tends to be the busiest, but it is essential for reaching the peak. If you want to experience the tranquillity of hiking to the highest peak in Bohemia, consider visiting during the next season. If avoiding summer break isn’t feasible, aim for an early morning trek on a weekday. For a different perspective on the way down from Sněžka, consider trying the Mountain Carriers’ Trail through Růžohorky, before heading down the green trail towards the Pod Větrníkem crossroads.

Inaccessible jewels of Luční and Studniční hora

Luční hora (1556 m) and Studniční hora (1,555 m) are the second and third highest mountains in the Czech Republic, with Luční hora sometimes cited as also standing at 1,555 m. Both of these peaks are the highest after Sněžka and equally inaccessible. While we can’t go up to the very top, we can trek up to the saddle nestled between them, home to the former chapel that has now transformed into a Memorial to Mountain Victims. Just a short distance below, recharge at the Luční bouda. We suggest a mountaineering expedition starting in Špindlerův Mlýn from Bouda U Bílého Labe as an alternative route through The valley of the White Elbe. The northern trail known as Via Czechia is also a stimulating yet stunning route. Starting at Luční bouda, make your way to the Memorial, positioned at an elevation of 1,508 m between the two mountains. If you wish to explore more, descend back to Luční bouda and follow the Old Buchar Trail along the red path to discover hidden spots in the highest areas of the Krkonoše, like Rennerova studánka and the Goat Ridges viewpoint. This trail is better suited for ibex or chamois than for humans, making it ideal for performance athletes. The Goat Ridges viewpoint on Mount Krakonoš (1422 m) delivers some truly unforgettable views. The slopes of Goat Ridges will guide you above Grouse Mine and towards St. Peter’s.

High Wheel, Velký Šišák, and Sněžné jámy

Can you guess which of our mountains ranks fourth in height? It’s located on the main ridge along the Czech-Polish border, along the path of the Czech-Polish Friendship Route. The answer is High Wheel (1510 m). You cannot access the summit from the Czech side, but the Polish side allows for it. To avoid confusion, the Poles refer to High Wheel as Wielki Szyszak. However, there’s a bit of complexity regarding Wielki Szyszak because it’s located directly on the Czech-Polish Friendship Trail. The Czech Velký Šišák (1410 m), which is above Černý sedlo, is even lower than Malý Šišák (1440 m) near Slezský sedlo. This naming may be referring to the Polish Velký Šišák (1510 m). Starting your adventure to the Šišak Mountains, High Wheel, and the Snow Pits is best from the Silesian Saddle near Špindlerovka, where you can catch a bus from Špindlerův Mlýn. This challenging route demands quite a bit of energy, so the bus will make it easier to get to the starting point quickly. As you journey along the gentle yet consistent incline of the Czech-Polish Friendship Route, you will pass notable features like the Girls’ Stones and the Men’s Stones until you reach the Pod Smělcem shelter in Černý sedlo.

Next, you will take on the ascent of the Czech Velký Šišák (1410 m) and cross beneath the High Wheel on the Polish section of the mountains. Remember those ibex from Goat’s Back? Well, they’re no longer just a metaphor; they are real now. Watch your step as rocky slopes can be slippery, making it easy to tumble down into the Snowy Cauldron… If you suffer from a fear of heights, it’s best not to look down. After navigating this tougher section (especially challenging with residual snow), there’s an unmarked trail that allows you to ascend all the way to the top of Velký Šišák (Wielki Szyszak), where breathtaking views await. The panorama of the Snow Pits and the vistas from the Polish transmitter are stunning as well. After exploring the border, return to the Czech Republic via the yellow Horse Trail, which will take you to Labská bouda. Once you’ve rested, prepare for a thrilling descent towards the Elbe Waterfall along the path Elbe waterfall, which will lead you back to the center of Špindlerův Mlýn.

Overview

Explore the Giant Mountains (Krkonoše) by climbing the Czech Republic’s highest peak, Sněžka, or by hiking along the scenic Czech–Polish border. Throughout your journey, you’ll encounter stunning natural landscapes, rugged terrain, and charming historic mountain huts.

Peaks

• Sněžka (1 603 m)

  • The tallest mountain in the range

  • Accessible via well-marked trails and cable car

• Luční hora & Studniční hora

  • Higher neighboring peaks, but off-limits to tourists

  • You may traverse only the saddle area between them

Hiking Difficulty

• Classified as a challenging mountain hike

• Elevation gain exceeds 800 m

• Terrain is rocky, often steep and exposed

Mountain Huts & Hospitality

• Luční bouda

  • 4 km from Sněžka’s summit

  • Located in the first zone of Krkonoš National Park

  • Offers lodging, meals, and its own Paroháč beer

Border Formations & Trails

• Dívčí kameny

  • Dramatic rock formations on the Czech–Polish border

  • Panoramic vistas of both countries’ landscapes

• Notable Trails

  • Czech–Polish Friendship Trail

  • Mountain Carriers Trail

  • Via Czechia – North Trek

Unique Natural Feature

• The Giant Mine (Obří důl)

  • A vast glacial valley rich in biodiversity

  • Historic site for gathering medicinal herbs