Paths to Paradise or Perdition?

The upcoming sections are intended for all types of adventurers: for those who love thrilling hikes, we provide fantastic trip recommendations, and for the more cautious tourists, we list areas that may not be suitable. Some notable spots include the Oldřichovské háje a skály nature trail, which winds along the hillsides of Oldřichovský Špičák and Gully Hill near Oldřichov v Hájích. This trail connects stunning yet hard-to-reach spots in the Jizera Mountains, meandering through beech forests and magnificent granite rock formations, eventually leading to a viewpoint named Skalní hrad. The yellow-marked section, in particular, provides a unique experience as it traverses the top of Oldřichovský Špičák (724 m). Along certain rock passages, you will find both iron and metal ladders with chains, reminiscent of those found in Slovak mountains and gorges. In the Czech mountains, this area is truly exceptional and unique.

White Opava: not for the timid

In the Jeseníky Mountains, you’ll find many amazing hiking trails, but among them, the legend is the White Opava nature trail, which takes you through what many consider to be the most beautiful valley in Jeseníky, from Karlova Studánka to Praděd. This trail is notable for its wooden bridges, ladders, and chains, making it one of the most challenging. The blue and yellow markers initially run parallel to the shelter Na Paloučku, where they split: the blue trail leads along an easier forest path, while the yellow continues with a steep climb through the White Opava valley, featuring ladders, footbridges, and slippery stones. Eventually, the two markers converge above the falls and then separate again at the crossroads Pod Ovčárnou. At that point, you’ll have covered less than 4 km with almost 400 meters of ascent, but you’ll still need to complete another 4 km with an additional 300 meters of climbing to reach the top of Praděd, although this last part is ladder-free and easier.

Those who fear heights should skip Switzerland

It’s important to clarify that we are referring to Bohemian Switzerland. Although it might be tempting to stay away if you’re afraid of steep steps, ladders, and narrow gorges, there are many beautiful locations with comfortable trails. However, there are also some less accessible yet incredibly romantic spots hidden among the rock gorges near Jetřichovice. For instance, the well-known Mouse Hole or Narrow Stairs along the yellow trail stretching from the meadow Na Tokáni to Doubice. While the more difficult parts can be avoided using easier routes, let’s be honest: it’s just not the same.
Expect to encounter long ladders, steps carved into rocks, footbridges (some without railings!), along with other challenges as you climb to Rudolf’s Stone and the Mary’s Lookout. The lookout hut at Mary’s Lookout has been fully restored after years of renovation and is once again accessible, as is the famed Šaunštejn rock castle. The cleverly designed Kyjovská rock trail moves through rugged terrain packed with steps and ladders, offering stunning views of the various rock formations. It was constructed in the rocks by the Mountain Association between 1905 and 1906.

More ladders, stairs, and stepladders

• At the Karlova Studánka mountain spa, there are various marked routes for outings, including one that leads to Roland’s Stone. Here, you’ll find staircases, railings, and footbridges, topped off with a beautiful viewing platform that offers breathtaking views of the Jeseníky Mountains.
• Ladders and steps are essential features in almost all rock cities, like areas known as Mouse Hole and Wolf Gorge. They reflect the wild nature of the surroundings, their remoteness, and mystical ambiance. Expect to encounter both short and long ladders everywhere, especially in Adršpach, Teplice Rock Town, Prachov Rocks, and other rock formations in the Bohemian Paradise.
• Bridges, ladders, and stepladders can also be encountered on the Kögler Educational Trail, which starts and ends at the square in Krásná Lípa. This trail travels through a picturesque landscape at the edge of the Lusatian Mountains, the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, and the Bohemian Switzerland National Park. The most challenging parts can be found in the Kyjov Rock Town and the Devonian Limestone Reserve known as Limestone.
• The Cinibulk Educational Trail takes you from Mšeno into the labyrinth of the Kokořín rocks. This route features a mixture of uphill and downhill paths, including areas where you will need to use chains.
• The Šilinkovým dolem route through the Krounka River valley also includes chains, ladders, and bridges. Here, you can navigate across a cliff without any railings, relying only on chains and a few ladders for support.