There are four National Parks around the Czech Republic that are perfect for hiking regardless of the season. The bordering countries of the Czech Republic share these parks. We look at some of the best spots for winter hiking in the Czech Republic.
State Castle Rozmberk. Photo by: amajk/Fotolia
Before you set off…
Bear in mind that during the winter season, a thick layer of snow falls so plan to wear snow shoes. You can take your own, or rent these locally from ski resorts. There can sometimes be around 1.5m of snowfall so prepare alternative activities if you find yourself unable to hike in these conditions. Other winter sports such as skiing, snow tubing, or snowboarding are available.
Check local notice information boards at carparks near the parks for information regarding inclusions of hiking trails into ski trails. Follow signposts along trails and stick to any restrictions that are in place to avoid complications.
Snow walking requires more effort and so you should anticipate shorter walks to fit in with the fewer daylight hours. Alternatively, challenge yourself and try a longer distance!
Many bookstores or Tourist Information Centres will have hiking maps available. TICs will also be able to give you information on shorter trails. A lot of Information Centres in and around the parks may face closures over the winter season.
Šumava National Park
Known as the ‘Green Roof of Europe’, this park borders Germany to create the largest forest landscape in Europe. In place since 1991, this is the largest National Park in the Czech Republic. It has been a UNESCO-protected biosphere reserve since 1990. Areas above 1200m will experience severe ice or frost during winter months. Frost can even occur during summer months at higher altitudes. January is usually the coldest month.
There are 8 marked trails which weave throughout, and you can find detailed information on boards upon entry to the park from car parks.
There are temporary campsites throughout the park that are open all year should you wish to brave the cold overnight.
The Bílá Strž waterfall and Černé jezero glacial lake are two highlights to look out for.
Krkonoše National Park
This national park is the oldest and the coldest, sharing a border with Poland. It has the highest mountains in the Czech Republic. When covered in snow, they’re a beautiful winter wonderland that you shouldn’t miss. Snow can reach depths between 100 and 300cm, with temperatures sometimes sinking to below -4°C.
The highest mountain, Sněžka, stands at 1602m. Don’t miss out on the view; an aerial tramway can get you to the top if the hike is too long.
This is the most popular location for winter holidays in the Czech Republic as it has many ski slopes.
There are a high number of waterfalls here so look out for them on your hike, including the highest for the Czech Republic, Pančava. There are 800km of marked trails here to explore. Access the park from Harrachov, Špindlerův Mlýn, and Pec pod Sněžkou. For a simple trek, walk to the Mumlava Waterfalls from Harrachov. Consider staying at Hotel Sněžka for easy access to this national park.
Krkonoše National Park. Photo by: hedgehog95/Fotolia
Czech Switzerland/Bohemian Switzerland National Park
This is the youngest national park in the Czech Republic and its biggest feature is Europe’s largest natural sandstone arch, Pravčická brána. Take the Gabriel Trail from Mezní Louka to experience this feature up close. You may recognise it from the Chronicles of Narnia film.
Due to a climate phenomenon called climatic inversion, you may find valleys and gorges colder than higher slopes.
Hiking trails across the park are easily accessible from the nearby Hřensko.
Take a visit to the Fairy Cave near the River Křinice which is a fantastic sight in winter featuring some stunning ice formations. If you don’t fancy the long walk to see the Bastei bridge, you can drive there in your hire car.
Podyjí National Park
Formed around the River Dyje and its valley, this is the smallest national park in the Czech Republic. There are 76km of marked hiking trails to discover here. Once inaccessible due to the Iron Curtain, it’s been largely untamed and kept in its most natural state. It borders with Austria and forms Nationalpark Thayatal on the other side.
There are 6 trails available and features clear signposts. The First Zone, the most protected area of the park, is only accessible by the marked trails.
You should only take your car as far as the designated car parks. These are clearly marked within the ‘buffer zone’ of the surrounding villages.
The Šobe vineyard is located centrally and its 12 hectares is open all year. Unfortunately, due to seasonality, you won’t be able to taste any wines.
Where can I collect my hire car from?
We currently work with suppliers in Prague and Brno. These include Thrifty, Alamo and Green Motion who offer collect full, return full fuel policies. We’re able to include a free additional driver with bookings through Thrifty and Green Motion. Full Collision Damage and Theft Waiver with Excess Reimbursement Insurance (ERI) is included as standard with bookings for the Czech Republic.
Bastei Bridge. Photo by: Fexel/Fotolia
Winter hiking in the Czech Republic
Have you visited any of the national parks in the Czech Republic before? Let us know your favourite features in the comments below, or whether you’re planning a trip soon.
Written by Jessica Juby.
Make sure you follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest travel tips and news.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Want our blogs emailed direct to you? Sign up below to get updates featuring our blogs and car hire top tips. Receive the best deals on car hire straight to your inbox.
