Top 10 Trails in Our Šumava National Park Hiking Guide

Choosing the right trail depends on your fitness level. Šumava has something for everyone, from families to hardcore trekkers. Most trails are open year-round, but some high-altitude paths may have snow until May. Here are our top picks for your next adventure.

• Best overall: Black and Devil's Lakes
• Best for families: Chalupská slať
• Best for views: Poledník Lookout Tower
• Best unique experience: Kvilda Wolf Enclosure

1. Name: Black and Devil's Lakes (Černé a Čertovo jezero) Type: Glacial Lake Hike Why go: These are the largest glacial lakes in the park. The dark water surrounded by steep cliffs is hauntingly beautiful. Best for: Photographers and nature lovers. Where: Near Železná Ruda. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take a train to Špičák station. Tip: The climb between the two lakes is steep, so wear good boots.
2. Name: Boubín Forest (Boubínský prales) Type: Primeval Forest Walk Why go: This is one of the oldest protected forests in Europe. You will see giant spruce and fir trees that are hundreds of years old. Best for: Nature enthusiasts. Where: Near Kubova Huť. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Drive or take a train to Kubova Huť. Tip: Visit the lookout tower at the top for views of the Alps on clear days.
3. Name: Poledník Lookout Tower Type: Mountain Viewpoint Why go: This former military tower offers a 360-degree view of the entire Bohemian Forest. It is one of the highest points in the park. Best for: Panoramic views. Where: Near Prášily. Time: 5-6 hours (round trip). Cost: Small fee for tower entry. Getting there: Hike from the village of Prášily. Tip: The trail is long but mostly paved, making it great for cyclists too.
4. Name: Vydra River Trail (Povydří) Type: River Canyon Walk Why go: The Vydra is a rocky mountain river with massive granite boulders. The trail follows the rushing water through a scenic canyon. Best for: Families and easy walking. Where: Between Antýgl and Čeňkova Pila. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Use the local "Green Bus" service in summer. Tip: Stop at Turnerova chata to see the resident river otters.
5. Name: Plešné Lake and Plechý Peak Type: Alpine Ridge Hike Why go: Plechý is the highest peak on the Czech side of Šumava. The lake below it is tucked under a massive rock wall. Best for: Experienced hikers. Where: Near Nová Pec. Time: 6-7 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Start at the parking lot in Nová Pec. Tip: Visit the Stifter Monument on the ridge for the best lake view.
6. Name: Kvilda Wolf Enclosure Type: Wildlife Experience Why go: You can walk on a raised wooden bridge over a large wolf enclosure. It is a rare chance to see these animals in a natural setting. Best for: Families with children. Where: Near the village of Kvilda. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free (parking fee applies). Getting there: Drive to the visitor center near Kvilda. Tip: Go early in the morning when the wolves are most active.
7. Name: Chalupská slať (Peat Bog) Type: Easy Nature Walk Why go: This is the largest peat bog lake in the Czech Republic. A wooden boardwalk leads you through the unique flora. Best for: A quick, relaxing stroll. Where: Near Borová Lada. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Short drive from Vimperk or Kvilda. Tip: The reflections on the water are perfect for sunset photos.
8. Name: Stožec Rock (Stožecká skála) Type: Cultural Hike Why go: It features a beautiful wooden chapel and a rocky viewpoint. The area has a rich history related to old trade routes. Best for: History buffs. Where: Near Stožec. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the train to Stožec station. Tip: The path is steep near the top but very well maintained.
9. Name: Soumarské rašeliniště Type: Educational Nature Trail Why go: This trail teaches you about peat mining history. It includes a small lookout tower over the bog. Best for: Birdwatching. Where: Near Volary. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Start near the Soumarský Most campsite. Tip: This trail is often less crowded than Chalupská slať.
10. Name: Modrava to Březník Type: Valley Hike Why go: This trail leads to one of the rainiest and most remote spots in the country. The view of Luzný mountain from Březník is iconic. Best for: Peace and quiet. Where: Starts in Modrava. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Park in Modrava or take a bus. Tip: The Březník info center serves great local snacks and drinks.

Planning Your Šumava Hiking Trip from Český Krumlov

Český Krumlov is an excellent base for exploring South Bohemia. While the town is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage sites, nature is close by. Most trailheads in Šumava are a 45 to 90-minute drive from the town center.

If you do not have a car, you can use the local trains. The line from Český Krumlov to Volary is very scenic. From Volary, you can connect to many popular hiking spots. Always check the latest schedules on the IDOS app or website.

For those looking for more variety, consider best day trips from Český Krumlov. You can easily combine a morning hike with an afternoon castle visit. This makes your itinerary diverse and exciting for the whole family.

Remember that Šumava is a protected area. Stay on the marked paths to protect the fragile ecosystem. Pack plenty of water and a physical map, as cell service can be spotty. Respect the silence of the forest and take all trash back with you.

Best Day Trips Near Šumava and Český Krumlov

If you want a break from the deep forest, there are many options nearby. The Lipno area offers a different kind of outdoor fun. You can enjoy the trip from Český Krumlov to Lipno nad Vltavou for water sports or the Treetop Walkway.

Another great option is a shorter hike closer to town. The Kleť Mountain observatory hike provides amazing views without a long drive. It is a local favorite for a quick workout and a beer at the top.

For those who love the water, Vltava river rafting experiences are a must. You can float through the heart of Český Krumlov or explore the wilder sections near the park. These activities round out any Šumava National Park hiking guide perfectly.