Top One-Day Hiking Trails in Šumava

Šumava is famous for its diverse landscapes. You can choose between easy walks and steep climbs. Most trails are very well marked. Look for the colored signs on trees and poles. These routes show you the very best of the Bohemian Forest.

• Best overall: Black and Devil's Lakes
• Best for families: Vydra River Valley
• Best for views: Poledník Lookout Tower
• Best unique experience: Srní Wolf Enclosure

1. Name: Black and Devil's Lakes (Černé a Čertovo jezero) Type: Nature/Glacial Lakes Why go: These are the two largest glacial lakes in the country. The dark water and steep cliffs are breathtaking. Best for: Iconic mountain scenery. Where: Železná Ruda area. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the train from Plzeň to Špičák station. Tip: The climb between the lakes is steep, so wear sturdy boots.
2. Name: Vydra River Valley (Povydří) Type: Nature/River Walk Why go: This trail follows a wild, rocky river. You will see massive granite boulders and small waterfalls. Best for: Families and easy walking. Where: Between Čeňkova Pila and Antýgl. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Drive or take a bus toward Srní. Tip: Stop at Turnerova chata to see the local otters.
3. Name: Poledník Lookout Tower Type: Viewpoint/Peak Why go: It offers a 360-degree view of the entire mountain range. On clear days, you can see the Alps. Best for: Panoramic photography. Where: Near Prášily. Time: 5-6 hours. Cost: Small fee for tower entry. Getting there: Drive to Prášily and follow the red trail. Tip: Check the tower opening hours before you start your hike.
4. Name: Prášilské Lake Type: Nature/Lake Why go: It is a quiet and serene glacial lake. The surrounding forest is dense and beautiful. Best for: Escaping the crowds. Where: Near the village of Prášily. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Park in Prášily and follow the red markers. Tip: Continue to the Poledník tower if you have extra energy.
5. Name: Boubín Primeval Forest Type: Nature/Old-Growth Forest Why go: This is one of the oldest protected forests in Europe. Some trees are over 400 years old. Best for: Nature lovers and silence. Where: Near Kubova Huť. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take a train to Kubova Huť station. Tip: Visit the lookout tower at the top of Boubín peak.
6. Name: Srní Wolf Enclosure Trail Type: Unique Experience Why go: You can watch a wolf pack from a raised wooden bridge. It is an educational and exciting experience. Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts and kids. Where: Srní village. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free (parking fee applies). Getting there: Drive or bus to the Srní visitor center. Tip: Go early in the morning for the best chance to see wolves.
7. Name: Kašperk Castle Hike Type: Culture/History Why go: This is the highest royal castle in Bohemia. The hike through the woods leads to amazing ruins. Best for: History buffs. Where: Kašperské Hory. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free for the trail; fee for castle tour. Getting there: Drive to Kašperské Hory and follow the green trail. Tip: The view of the castle from Pustý Hrádek is the best.
8. Name: Třístoličník Ridge Trail Type: Viewpoint/Border Trail Why go: You can walk along the border of Czechia and Germany. The rock formations are very unusual. Best for: High-altitude feeling. Where: Near Nové Údolí. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the train to Nové Údolí station. Tip: Bring your passport as you will likely cross the border.
9. Name: Modrava to Březník Type: Nature/Valley Why go: This trail leads to one of the most beautiful valleys in Šumava. You will see the iconic Luzný peak in the distance. Best for: Peaceful landscapes. Where: Modrava village. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Drive to the large parking lot in Modrava. Tip: The trail is paved, making it great for cycling too.
10. Name: Chalupská slať (Peat Bog) Type: Nature/Peat Bog Why go: Walk on a wooden boardwalk over a mysterious peat bog. It features the largest bog lake in Czechia. Best for: A quick and easy nature walk. Where: Svinná Lada. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Drive toward Borová Lada. Tip: This is a perfect stop on your way back to Plzeň.

Planning Your Šumava Hiking Trip from Plzeň

Getting to the mountains is straightforward. Many people prefer getting to Šumava National Park from Plzeň by train for a relaxing trip. The trains are frequent and affordable. You can also drive to most trailheads in about 70 to 90 minutes. Check the Plzeň Region official site for regional transport updates.

Weather in the mountains changes quickly. Always pack a waterproof jacket and extra layers. Even in summer, the peaks can be chilly. Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good grip. Bring plenty of water and some snacks for the trail.

Respect the rules of the National Park. Stay on marked paths to protect the fragile nature. Do not leave any trash behind. Dogs are usually allowed but must be on a leash. This helps keep the park beautiful for everyone to enjoy.

Other Great Day Trips Near Plzeň

If you want to stay closer to the city, there are more options. You can find many best day trips from Plzeň that require less travel. These spots are perfect for a half-day adventure. They offer a mix of history and nature.

1. Name: Radyně Castle Type: Viewpoint/History Why go: This medieval ruin sits on a hill overlooking Plzeň. The views of the city are fantastic. Best for: Quick afternoon trips. Where: Starý Plzenec. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Small fee for the tower. Getting there: Local bus or a short drive from Plzeň. Tip: Visit the nearby rotunda in Starý Plzenec afterward.
2. Name: Chotěšov Abbey Trail Type: Culture/Nature Why go: Explore the massive grounds of a historic abbey. The surrounding trails lead through quiet fields. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Chotěšov village. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free to walk the grounds. Getting there: Take the train or drive south of Plzeň. Tip: Look for special events or concerts held at the abbey.

You might also consider a Karlovy Vary day trip from Plzeň. This famous spa town is north of the city. It offers elegant colonnades and thermal springs. It is a different kind of adventure from the wild Šumava mountains.