Top 10 Šumava National Park Hiking Trails to Visit

The park features a vast network of marked paths. Most trails are well-maintained and easy to follow. You should always carry a physical map or a digital offline version. Many routes start near small mountain villages like Modrava or Kvilda. Here are the top picks for your next adventure.

• Best overall: Černé jezero
• Best for families: Vydra River Trail
• Best viewpoint: Poledník Lookout Tower
• Best for wildlife: Srní Wolf Enclosure

1. Name: Černé jezero (Black Lake) Type: Sight/Nature Why go: It is the largest glacial lake in the country. The dark water reflects the surrounding deep spruce forests beautifully. Best for: Iconic photography and nature lovers. Where: Near Železná Ruda. Time: 3-4 hours round trip. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take a train from Plzeň to Železná Ruda, then follow the yellow trail. Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the largest crowds.
2. Name: Čertovo jezero (Devil's Lake) Type: Sight/Nature Why go: This lake is more secluded than Black Lake. A steep ridge separates the two, offering a rugged hiking experience. Best for: Hikers seeking a bit of a challenge. Where: Near Železná Ruda. Time: 4-5 hours (combined with Black Lake). Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the red-marked trail from the Black Lake parking area. Tip: Wear sturdy boots as the path is quite rocky and steep.
3. Name: Vydra River Trail (Povydří) Type: Experience Why go: The Vydra River is famous for its massive granite boulders. The water has a unique reddish tint from the peat bogs. Best for: Families with strollers and casual walkers. Where: Between Čeňkova Pila and Antýgl. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Drive or take a bus to Čeňkova Pila. Tip: Stop at Turnerova chata for a traditional Czech snack by the river.
4. Name: Poledník Lookout Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: This former military tower offers 360-degree views of the park. On clear days, you can see the Alps in the distance. Best for: Panoramic views and history buffs. Where: Near Prášily. Time: 5-6 hours. Cost: Small entry fee for the tower. Getting there: Hike from the village of Prášily along the red trail. Tip: The tower is only open from May to October.
5. Name: Srní Wolf Enclosure Type: Experience/Nature Why go: You can watch a resident wolf pack from a raised wooden bridge. It is an educational and safe way to see these predators. Best for: Families and wildlife enthusiasts. Where: Srní. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free (parking fee applies). Getting there: Bus from Sušice or drive to the Srní visitor center. Tip: Use binoculars for a better view of the wolves in the brush.
6. Name: Tříjezerní slať (Three-Lake Peat Bog) Type: Nature Why go: This is a typical Bohemian peat bog with a wooden boardwalk. It showcases unique flora that survived since the Ice Age. Best for: Educational walks and quiet nature. Where: Near Modrava. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk the blue trail starting from the village of Modrava. Tip: The boardwalk can be slippery when wet, so walk carefully.
7. Name: Boubín Primeval Forest Type: Nature Why go: This is one of the oldest protected forests in Europe. Some trees are over 400 years old. Best for: Forest bathing and ancient tree spotting. Where: Near Kubova Huť. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the scenic train to Kubova Huť, the highest station in Czechia. Tip: Check out the lookout tower at the top of Boubín mountain.
8. Name: Pancíř Mountain Type: Viewpoint Why go: You can take a vintage chairlift to the top. The ridge walk from here offers great views with less effort. Best for: Those who want views without a long climb. Where: Železná Ruda. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Fee for the chairlift. Getting there: The chairlift starts near the Špičák train station. Tip: Hike down via the "Tomášův kříž" path for extra scenery.
9. Name: Březník Valley Type: Sight/Nature Why go: This is one of the most beautiful and remote valleys in Šumava. It offers a view of the Luzný (Lusen) peak in Germany. Best for: Peaceful, long-distance walking. Where: South of Modrava. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the blue trail from Modrava. Tip: The Modravský stream along the way is very picturesque for photos.
10. Name: Rabí Castle Loop Type: Day Trip/Sight Why go: While just outside the park, this trail circles the largest castle ruin in Bohemia. It combines history with rolling hills. Best for: History lovers and hikers. Where: Rabí village. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Free for the trail; fee for castle entry. Getting there: It is one of the best castles near Plzeň by train. Tip: Read a Rabí Castle guide before you go to understand the ruins.

Planning Your Hike from Plzeň

Plzeň is an excellent base for exploring the Šumava region. You can reach the northern parts of the park in about an hour. Many people choose family day trips from Plzeň to enjoy the fresh mountain air. The local trains are reliable and offer beautiful views of the countryside. You can check schedules on the official city tourism board website.

Weather in the mountains can change very quickly. Even in summer, you should pack a light waterproof jacket. Proper hiking shoes are essential for the rocky lake paths. If you visit in winter, the park transforms into a snowy wonderland. You can find more info in our winter guide for Plzeň and the surrounding mountains.

The best time for Šumava National Park hiking trails is from May to October. Spring brings blooming meadows and rushing streams. Autumn offers vibrant leaf colors and crisp, clear air. Always stay on marked paths to protect the fragile ecosystem. The park is a protected area with strict rules about litter and camping. You can find more details on the Visit Czechia portal.

Nearby Adventures and Day Trips

If you have more time, consider other great weekend trips from Plzeň. The Plzeň region is full of hidden gems and historic towns. You can explore the spa triangle or visit local breweries. Many hikers also enjoy cycling routes that connect the park to nearby villages. The terrain varies from flat valleys to challenging climbs.

For a unique experience, look for local festivals in mountain villages. These events often feature traditional crafts and Bohemian food. You can find a list of events on the Plzeň Region official site. It is a great way to meet locals and learn about the culture. These small towns are very welcoming to international visitors.