Why Hike the Šumava National Park Near Český Krumlov?

Šumava is often called the "Green Roof of Europe." It is one of the largest forested areas in Central Europe. Hiking here feels like stepping into a fairy tale. You will see rare birds and ancient trees. The trails are well-marked with color-coded signs. This makes Šumava National Park hiking easy for beginners and experts alike.

The proximity to Krumlov is a major benefit. You can reach the park boundary in about 30 to 45 minutes. This allows you to enjoy a morning hike and return for dinner. The park also has a rich history. You can find abandoned villages and old canals hidden in the woods. For more general travel info, check out the Visit Czechia website.

10 Best Hiking Trails in Šumava Near Krumlov

Here are the top picks for your hiking itinerary. Each trail offers something unique. These selections cover different difficulty levels and scenic highlights.

1. Name: Plešné Lake & Mt. Plechý Type: Sight/Nature Why go: See a stunning glacial lake and the highest peak in the Czech part of Šumava. Best for: Experienced hikers. Where: Near Nová Pec. Time: 5-6 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Drive to Nová Pec or take the train. Tip: The climb to the Stifter monument offers the best lake view.
2. Name: The Bear Trail (Medvědí stezka) Type: Experience Why go: This is the oldest marked trail in the region. It features unique rock formations. Best for: Families and geology fans. Where: Between Ovesná and Černý Kříž. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Train to Ovesná station is very convenient. Tip: Look for the "Grotto" rock formation along the way.
3. Name: Boubín Virgin Forest Type: Nature Why go: Explore a forest that has remained untouched for centuries. Best for: Nature purists. Where: Near Kubova Huť. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free (parking fees may apply). Getting there: Train to Kubova Huť, the highest railway station in the country. Tip: Climb the Boubín lookout tower for views of the Alps on clear days.
4. Name: Soumarské Peat Bog Type: Nature/Experience Why go: Walk on a wooden boardwalk through a mysterious wetland. Best for: Easy walks and bird watching. Where: Soumarský Most. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Short drive from Volary. Tip: Visit in the early morning for a misty, magical atmosphere.
5. Name: Stožec Rock & Chapel Type: Viewpoint/Sight Why go: Visit a beautiful wooden chapel and see a massive rock tower. Best for: History lovers. Where: Stožec village. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Train from Krumlov to Stožec. Tip: The trail is steep but short, making it a great quick workout.
6. Name: Vítkův Hrádek Type: Viewpoint Why go: It is the highest-altitude castle ruin in Bohemia. Best for: Sunset views over Lipno Lake. Where: Near Svatý Tomáš. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Small fee for tower access. Getting there: Best reached by car via Přední Výtoň. Tip: On a clear day, you can see the Austrian Alps from the top.
7. Name: Schwarzenberg Canal Path Type: History/Experience Why go: Follow a 19th-century canal used for floating timber. Best for: Flat, easy walking or cycling. Where: Jelení Vrchy. Time: Flexible (up to 8 hours). Cost: Free. Getting there: Drive to Jelení Vrchy. Tip: Look for the tunnel entrance where the canal goes underground.
8. Name: Třístoličník (Dreisesselberg) Type: Ridge Hike Why go: Walk along the border of Czechia, Germany, and Austria. Best for: Dramatic rock scenery. Where: Border near Stožec. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Drive to the German side (Dreisessel) for an easier start. Tip: The granite rock formations are great for photos.
9. Name: Lipno Lake Shoreline Type: Sight Why go: Enjoy the "South Bohemian Sea" with easy paved paths. Best for: Relaxed strolls and families. Where: Frymburk or Lipno nad Vltavou. Time: 1-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: 30-minute drive from Krumlov. Tip: Rent a bike to cover more ground along the water.
10. Name: Kleť Mountain Type: Viewpoint Why go: The closest major peak to Krumlov with a stone tower and observatory. Best for: A local favorite hike. Where: Blanský les (near Krumlov). Time: 3 hours. Cost: Free (Tower has a small fee). Getting there: Hike from Holubov or take the chairlift. Tip: Try the local garlic soup at the mountain hut at the top.

Planning Your Šumava Hiking Trip from Krumlov

To enjoy the best hiking trails in Šumava near Krumlov, you need a little preparation. The weather can change fast in the mountains. Always pack a rain jacket, even in summer. Proper hiking boots are vital for rocky paths like Plešné Lake. You can find more local details on the Český Krumlov Official Tourism portal.

If you do not have a car, do not worry. The "Šumava Electric" train is a great way to travel. You can learn how to get to Sumava National Park without a car using local rail links. Trains run often from Krumlov to Černý Kříž. From there, you can access many trailheads easily. Most trails are open year-round, but some bog paths close in winter.