Quick Picks for Your Šumava Adventure

Planning a trip can take a lot of time. If you are in a hurry, use these quick picks. They cover the most popular needs for travelers. These spots are easy to reach and very rewarding.

• Best Overall: Černé jezero (Black Lake) for iconic scenery.
• Best for Families: Vydra River Valley for flat paths and boulders.
• Best Viewpoint: Poledník Lookout Tower for 360-degree vistas.
• Best Free Activity: Almost all hiking trails in the park are free to access.

Each of these options offers a unique look at the region. You can find more details in our list of best one day hikes in Šumava near Plzeň. Make sure to check the weather before you leave Plzeň.

10 Best Šumava National Park Hiking Routes from Plzeň

The following list includes the most famous and beautiful spots. These are specific locations that every hiker should see. Most are accessible by train or local buses. Always follow the marked trails to protect the environment.

1. Name: Černé jezero (Black Lake) Type: Sight/Glacial Lake Why go: It is the largest and deepest glacial lake in the country. The dark water and steep cliffs are stunning. Best for: Photographers and nature lovers. Where: Near Železná Ruda. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Train to Špičák, 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/Glacial Lake Why go: This lake is more secluded than Black Lake. It has a mysterious and wild atmosphere. Best for: Hikers seeking peace. Where: Adjacent to Black Lake. Time: 4-5 hours (combined with Black Lake). Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike from Špičák or follow the trail from Black Lake. Tip: The path between the two lakes is quite steep and rocky.
3. Name: Poledník Lookout Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers the best views of the central Šumava range. On clear days, you might even see the Alps. Best for: Active hikers and panoramic views. Where: Near Prášily. Time: 5-6 hours. Cost: Small fee for tower entry. Getting there: Bus to Prášily, then a long uphill hike. Tip: The tower is only open from May to October.
4. Name: Vydra River Valley Type: Experience/Nature Why go: The river is famous for its massive granite boulders. The water has a unique reddish-brown color from the peat bogs. Best for: Families and easy walks. Where: Between Modrava and Čeňkova Pila. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take a bus to Modrava or Srní. Tip: Stop at Turnerova chata for a local snack by the water.
5. Name: Boubín Primeval Forest Type: Sight/Nature Why go: This is one of the oldest protected forests in Europe. Some trees are over 400 years old. Best for: History and biology enthusiasts. Where: Near Kubova Huť. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Train to Kubova Huť, the highest station in the country. Tip: Stay on the wooden boardwalks to protect the rare plants.
6. Name: Laka Lake Type: Sight/Glacial Lake Why go: It is the smallest and highest glacial lake in Šumava. It is partially covered by floating islands of peat. Best for: Quiet reflection. Where: Near Prášily. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike from the Nová Hůrka parking area. Tip: This trail is relatively flat and good for cycling too.
7. Name: Modrava to Březník Type: Experience Why go: The Luzenské Valley is often called the most beautiful valley in the park. The views of Mt. Lůzný are spectacular. Best for: Scenic valley walks. Where: Starts in Modrava. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Bus to Modrava. Tip: The Březník hut offers great local food and a small museum.
8. Name: Tříjezerní slať (Three-Lake Peat Bog) Type: Sight/Experience Why go: A short boardwalk takes you through a rare mountain peat bog. It features three small dark lakes. Best for: Families and quick stops. Where: Near Modrava. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Easy hike or bike ride from Modrava. Tip: It is a great side trip when visiting the Vydra River.
9. Name: Špičák Peak Lookout Type: Viewpoint Why go: You get a great view of the lakes from above without a long climb. A chairlift can take you most of the way. Best for: Those with limited mobility or time. Where: Železná Ruda. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Fee for the chairlift. Getting there: Train to Špičák station. Tip: The modern wooden tower is very safe and sturdy.
10. Name: Jezerní slať (Lake Bog) Type: Sight/Nature Why go: This is one of the coldest places in the Czech Republic. It has a small observation tower and a boardwalk. Best for: Unique flora and cold-climate plants. Where: Near Kvilda. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Bus to Kvilda or Horská Kvilda. Tip: Even in summer, bring a light jacket as it can be chilly here.

How to Reach Šumava National Park from Plzeň

Getting to your destination is easy and affordable. Most people prefer getting to Šumava National Park from Plzeň by train. Direct trains run from the main station in Plzeň to Železná Ruda. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. You will pass through the beautiful Plzeň Region countryside. The trains are comfortable and offer space for bikes.

If you prefer driving, the trip takes about 70 minutes. Follow the main road south towards Klatovy. On the way, you can stop for Klatovy catacombs and tours. This adds a bit of history to your nature day. Parking is available at most trailheads but can fill up early.

During the summer, the park operates "Green Buses." These eco-friendly buses connect the main villages like Modrava, Kvilda, and Prášily. You can check the official schedules on the Plzeň Region official site. This is a great way to do one-way hikes. You can start in one village and end in another.

Essential Tips for Hiking in the Bohemian Forest

Hiking in Šumava requires some basic preparation. The weather can change very fast in the mountains. Even if it is sunny in Plzeň, it might rain in the park. Always carry a waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes. The trails are very well marked by the Czech Hiking Markers System. Look for the colored stripes on trees and poles.

Respect the local environment at all times. Šumava is a protected area with many rare species. Do not leave the marked paths in the core zones. If you have extra time, consider a Domažlice town day trip to see more of the local culture. This region is famous for its unique folklore and traditions.

Mobile signal can be weak in the deep valleys. It is a good idea to download offline maps before you go. Most mountain huts accept cards, but carry some cash for small kiosks. Always tell someone your planned route before heading out. Safety is key to enjoying the wilderness.