Planning your Jeseníky adventure from Olomouc

Getting to the mountains from Olomouc is straightforward and efficient. Most hikers prefer using the local train network to reach hubs like Kouty nad Desnou. You can also find frequent bus connections to mountain resorts. For more details on routes, check our guide on public transport for Olomouc day trips. Driving offers the most flexibility for reaching remote trailheads. Most drives from the city center take about one hour.

The best time for hiking is from late May to October. During these months, the mountain huts are fully operational. You will find warm hospitality and traditional Czech meals at every stop. Winter transforms the region into a snowy wonderland for skiing. However, many hiking trails remain accessible with the right equipment. Always check the mountain rescue reports before setting out on your trek.

The Jeseníky range is famous for its clean air and healing climate. Many visitors stay in the spa town of Karlova Studánka. This village serves as a primary gateway to the highest peaks. You can find official trail maps at the Olomouc Tourism Portal before you leave. Planning your route in advance ensures a safe and enjoyable experience. The trails are exceptionally well-marked with color-coded signs.

10 Best trails for hiking Praděd and Jeseníky Mountains

This list highlights the diverse beauty of the Jeseníky range. From industrial marvels to pristine nature reserves, there is something for everyone. Use these picks to build your perfect itinerary. Here are the top ten experiences for hiking Praděd and Jeseníky Mountains.

1. Name: Praděd Summit Type: sight Why go: It is the highest peak in Moravia at 1,491 meters. The iconic TV tower at the top offers a viewing platform with 360-degree vistas. Best for: Panoramic views and iconic photos. Where: Hrubý Jeseník ridge. Time: 3-5 hours. Cost: Free (small fee for tower elevator). Getting there: Shuttle bus from Hvězda or hike from Karlova Studánka. Tip: The summit is often 10 degrees colder than the valley, so bring a jacket.
2. Name: Bílá Opava Valley Type: nature Why go: This is arguably the most beautiful trail in the range. It features wooden bridges, ladders, and numerous waterfalls along a rushing stream. Best for: Nature lovers and photographers. Where: Starts in Karlova Studánka. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Bus from Olomouc to Karlova Studánka. Tip: Use the yellow-marked trail for the most scenic (and challenging) route.
3. Name: Dlouhé Stráně Type: experience Why go: This pumped-storage hydro plant is a feat of engineering. The upper reservoir sits atop a mountain that looks like it was sliced flat. Best for: Engineering fans and unique landscapes. Where: Near Kouty nad Desnou. Time: 4-6 hours. Cost: Free to hike; paid tours available for the plant. Getting there: Take the chairlift from Kouty nad Desnou and walk. Tip: You can rent a scooter at the top for a fun ride down the mountain road.
4. Name: Šerák Peak Type: viewpoint Why go: Home to the historic Jiřího na Šeráku stone mountain hut. It offers amazing views toward the Polish border. Best for: Traditional mountain dining and ridge views. Where: Above the town of Ramzová. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free (chairlift has a fee). Getting there: Direct train from Olomouc to Ramzová station. Tip: Try the local blueberry dumplings at the mountain hut.
5. Name: Karlova Studánka Type: experience Why go: A historic spa village with unique 19th-century timber architecture. It is known for having the cleanest air in Central Europe. Best for: Relaxation and architectural interest. Where: Eastern base of Praděd. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Regular bus service from Olomouc. Tip: Taste the local mineral water from the public fountains in the village.
6. Name: Petrovy kameny Type: sight Why go: These massive rock formations are steeped in legends about witch trials. They are a protected site due to rare alpine flora. Best for: History buffs and botany enthusiasts. Where: Just below the Praděd summit. Time: 1 hour (as part of a larger hike). Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the Ovčárna mountain hub. Tip: Stay on the marked path to protect the endangered plants growing on the rocks.
7. Name: Rejvíz Moss Lakes Type: nature Why go: A unique peat bog area featuring the Great Moss Lake. It feels like a prehistoric landscape with rare insects and plants. Best for: Easy walks and families. Where: Near the town of Zlaté Hory. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Small entry fee for the wooden boardwalk. Getting there: Best reached by car or local bus from Jeseník. Tip: Visit the Rejvíz mountain lodge to see the famous hand-carved chairs with faces.
8. Name: Velká kotlina Type: nature Why go: A glacial cirque that is the richest botanical site in the country. It features hundreds of plant species and a dramatic mountain bowl shape. Best for: Serious hikers and nature study. Where: Southern slopes of the Praděd massif. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike from the village of Malá Morávka. Tip: This area is prone to avalanches in winter, so check safety reports.
9. Name: Vysoký vodopád Type: nature Why go: The highest waterfall in the Jeseníky Mountains, dropping nearly 28 meters. It is located in a deep, lush forest. Best for: Quiet reflection and forest bathing. Where: Near the village of Bělá pod Pradědem. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike from the Vidly or Švýcárna hut. Tip: The waterfall is most impressive in late spring after the snow melts.
10. Name: Ztracené kameny Type: viewpoint Why go: This "Lost Stones" quartzite formation offers one of the best views of the southern Jeseníky. It is less crowded than Praděd. Best for: Avoiding crowds and sunset views. Where: Southern end of the main ridge. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike from the Skřítek mountain pass. Tip: The Skřítek pass has a great restaurant for a post-hike meal.

Essential gear for hiking in the Jeseníky range

The weather when hiking Praděd and Jeseníky Mountains can change in minutes. Even on a sunny day in Olomouc, the peaks can be shrouded in fog. You must wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support. The trails often feature slippery stones and tree roots. A waterproof shell jacket is mandatory for any trip above the tree line.

Pack plenty of water and high-energy snacks for longer routes. While mountain huts are frequent, they can be busy on weekends. Carrying a physical map is a good backup for your phone. Mobile signal can be spotty in deep valleys like Bílá Opava. We also recommend downloading the "Záchranka" app for emergency assistance. It is the official rescue app used throughout the Czech Republic.

Sun protection is often overlooked in the mountains. The UV rays are stronger at higher altitudes, even when it feels cool. Bring sunglasses and a hat to protect yourself on the ridge. If you plan to visit the Dlouhé Stráně reservoir, be prepared for high winds. The open plateau offers no shelter from the elements. Proper preparation ensures you focus on the beauty rather than discomfort.

More day trips to explore near Olomouc

If you have extra time in the region, Olomouc is perfectly situated. You can easily combine mountain trips with cultural excursions. For instance, consider a visit to Svatý Kopeček and the Olomouc Zoo. This hilltop basilica offers great views of the city you just left. It is a much shorter trip than heading to the high mountains.

History lovers should not miss the dramatic Helfštýn Castle ruins. This fortress is famous for its blacksmithing exhibitions and massive walls. It provides a different kind of hiking experience through medieval history. Another great option is exploring the Javoříčko Caves. These underground cathedrals feature some of the best stalactite formations in Moravia.

For a full list of regional highlights, see our guide on the best day trips from Olomouc. The variety of landscapes near the city is truly impressive. You can move from UNESCO-listed gardens to rugged mountain peaks in a single day. Moravia is a region that rewards those who take the time to explore. Each destination offers a unique glimpse into Czech culture and nature.