Hiking trails in Harrachov

Harrachov is a good starting point for walking trips in the western Krkonoše Mountains. From the town, you can set off on a short walk to the Mumlava Waterfall, a longer route through the Mumlava Valley, a hike up Čertova hora, a full-day trek to the source of the Elbe, or a trip towards Kořenov and the Jizera Mountains.

The trails around Harrachov have the advantage that you can easily adapt them to suit your needs. If you just want a short walk, simply head to the waterfall. If you have the whole day and are in good shape, you can carry on further up into the mountains. If you’re staying for several days, you can choose an easier walk one day and a longer route the next, depending on the weather.

Below you’ll find an overview of popular routes from the Šedý Vlk Hotel and a few suggestions for day trips, indicating whether it’s best to travel by car, bus or train.

An overview of walking routes from Harrachov

Distances are approximate. For longer routes, always check the current accessibility, weather conditions and any restrictions in the Krkonoše National Park.

How to choose a route based on time and fitness level

For a short trip that doesn’t require much planning, Mumlavský Waterfall, Rýžoviště or a shorter hike up Čertova hora are all good options. You can complete these routes in half a day and still have time left over to relax.

For a half-day or longer trip, choose Mumlavský důl, Krakonošova snídaně, Kořenov or the route via Devil’s Mountain to Ručičky. It’s a good idea to wear sturdy shoes and take a drink and a snack, but these aren’t extreme hikes.

Full-day trips include Pramen Labe, Dvoračky, Vosecká bouda, or the longer route via Kořenov up to Štěpánka. On these trips, you should be prepared for fatigue, the climb, and the fact that the weather at the top may be different from that down in Harrachov.

Mumlava Waterfall

The Mumlava Waterfall is one of the most famous sights in Harrachov. It is situated on the River Mumlava, approximately 2 km from the centre of Harrachov. The waterfall itself is just under 10 metres high and is at its most spectacular after rain or during the spring thaw, when there is more water in the river.

The route from the Šedý Vlk Hotel to the waterfall is ideal for the first day of your stay, for families with children, or for guests who don’t want a strenuous hike. The route has a clear destination, isn’t long, and can be managed even in less stable weather.

Suitable for: a short walk, families, older people, the day of arrival, a relaxed itinerary.

Tip: If you have time, don’t turn back straight away at the waterfall. Carry on a little further along the Mumlavský Valley. The atmosphere there is more peaceful than right by the main attraction.

The Mumlava Valley and Krakonošova snídaně

The Mumlava Valley is a valley in the western Krkonoše Mountains. The route takes you through pleasant mountain scenery along the Mumlava River and gradually leads you away from the busier parts of Harrachov. You don’t have to walk all the way to the end. Feel free to set a time for your return and turn back depending on the weather or how tired you are.

Krakonošova snídaně is a well-known crossroads in the mountains above Harrachov. The walk there is a bit longer, but still well within the capabilities of the average tourist, provided they set off in the morning and plan to return in the afternoon.

Suitable for: longer walks, quieter mountain trails, guests who want to spend most of the day outdoors.

Tip: Don’t turn up too late for Krakonošova snídaně. The round trip is already around 16–18 km, so it’s best to allow plenty of time.

Vosecká bouda

The Vosecká bouda is situated in the western Krkonoše Mountains, south-east of the Tvarožník rock. From Harrachov, you can walk there via the Krakonošova snídaně trail. Unlike the shorter route, this is a proper mountain hike, where you need to be prepared for a longer distance and changeable weather.

A trip to the Vosecká bouda makes sense mainly when visibility is good and for visitors who want to head higher up into the mountains from Harrachov. If it’s windy, raining or foggy, it’s wiser to choose the shorter route through the Mumlava Valley.

Suitable for: more active tourists, a day trip, good weather.

Tip: On longer mountain routes, keep an eye not only on the distance in kilometres, but also on the elevation gain and your estimated return time. In the mountains, fatigue sets in more quickly than on flat terrain.

Devil’s Mountain

Devil’s Mountain is a striking landmark towering over Harrachov and one of the closest places to head to for views and a climb. It is the westernmost peak over 1,000 metres in the Krkonoše Mountains, so even a short trip there is physically more demanding than a walk to the waterfall.

You can walk to Devil’s Mountain directly from Harrachov, or via Rýžoviště. The shorter route is ideal if you fancy a hike but don’t want to spend the whole day outdoors. The longer routes continue on to Ručičky or towards Dvoračky.

Suitable for: a hike from Harrachov, views, a shorter, more challenging route. a hike from Harrachov, views, a shorter, more challenging route.

Tip: Don’t underestimate the climb. The distance doesn’t seem long, but you’ll really feel the elevation gain, especially on the way up.

Rýžoviště

Rýžoviště is a part of Harrachov situated below Devil’s Mountain. The route from the hotel to Rýžoviště and back is a good choice if you’re looking for an easy walk but don’t want to stick to the town centre.

From Rýžoviště, you can carry on to Devil’s Mountain and turn a short walk into a moderately challenging hike. This is particularly handy on days when you want to keep the option open to extend or shorten the route depending on how you feel.

Suitable for: a gentle walk, a shorter route, the ascent of Devil’s Mountain.

Tip: Rýžoviště is a good compromise if you don’t fancy a long hike but want to get away from the busiest part of Harrachov.

Ručičky and Dvoračky

Ručičky is a popular junction between Harrachov, Rokytnice nad Jizerou and the ridges of the Krkonoše Mountains. From Harrachov, you can reach it via Devil’s Mountain. The route to Ručičky itself is longer, but still well within the capabilities of hikers with a basic level of fitness.

If you carry on as far as Dvoračky, expect it to be a full-day trip. Dvoračky is a mountain hut on the southern slope of Lysá hora, at an altitude of around 1,140 metres. The route is lovely, but it’s no longer suitable as an easy post-breakfast stroll.

Suitable for: a day trip, more experienced hikers, a combination of woodland, views and mountain trails.

Tip: If you’re travelling in a group, plan your journey around the slowest member. On long journeys, the pace will soon take its toll.

The source of the Elbe

The source of the Elbe is one of the best-known destinations on the Czech side of the Krkonoše Mountains. It lies on Labská louka at an altitude of approximately 1,387 metres. From Harrachov, it is a long, full-day hike that requires a good level of fitness, plenty of time and suitable kit.

A trip to the Source of the Elbe should not be treated as a casual stroll. The route is around 24–28 km there and back, depending on the specific route you choose, so it’s best to set off early in the morning. In summer, make sure you take plenty of water with you; in spring and autumn, be prepared for wind and cold at higher altitudes.

Suitable for: more experienced hikers, a full-day hike, good weather.

Tip: If you’re not sure about your fitness level, save the source of the Elbe for your next visit or choose a shorter route, returning via Krakonošova snídaně.

Kořenov

Kořenov lies on the border between the Krkonoše and Jizera Mountains. You can walk there from Harrachov, or make the journey easier by taking the train or bus. A trip towards Kořenov is particularly interesting because the character of the landscape gradually changes. The mountainous surroundings of Harrachov give way to more peaceful areas as you head towards the Jizera Mountains.

The Harrachov–Kořenov route itself, and back, is already around 14–18 km long. It isn’t particularly challenging, but it does take longer than the short walks around Harrachov.

Suitable for: a half-day or longer trip, a quieter route away from the main tourist attractions.

Tip: Check your train or bus connections. Sometimes it makes sense to walk one way and take public transport back.

Štěpánka

The Štěpánka Lookout Tower near Příchovice is one of the most beautiful destinations for a day out in the Kořenov area. You can walk there from Harrachov via Kořenov, but that’s a long route that takes a whole day. A more convenient option is to travel by car, bus or train to Kořenov or Příchovice and set off on a shorter trip from there.

Štěpánka is ideal if you want to enjoy the views but don’t want to walk the long mountain route from Harrachov and back. When the visibility is good, it’s a very rewarding destination.

Suitable for: a day trip with transport to the starting point, scenic views, and a combination of walking and a short journey by car or train.

Tip: If you’re travelling with children or don’t want to do the 20 km route, start from Kořenov or Příchovice.

Jizerka and Pytlácké kameny

Jizerka is a peaceful village in the Jizera Mountains and a great place to visit outside Harrachov. The best way to explore is to drive to a suitable starting point and then walk through the surrounding peat bogs, forests and to the viewpoints.

Pytlácké kameny is a rocky viewpoint in the Jizera Mountains. It’s best to plan a trip here when the weather is good, as the main attractions are the views and the mountain atmosphere. The terrain can be quite rocky in places, so sturdy footwear is advisable.

Suitable for: guests on longer stays, those on road trips, and lovers of the Jizera Mountains and the views.

Tip: Jizerka and Pytlácké kameny are a good choice if you’ve already visited the Mumlava Waterfall and want to see a slightly different landscape from the immediate surroundings of Harrachov.

Polish waterfalls Kamieńczyk and Szklarka

From the western Krkonoše Mountains, you can also head over to the Polish side, for example to Szklarska Poręba. Popular destinations include the Kamieńczyk and Szklarka waterfalls. The most practical option is to drive to the Polish side and then walk a shorter route, depending on the time and weather.

This trip is particularly suitable if you’re staying in Harrachov for a longer period. It isn’t the usual route straight from the hotel, but it makes for a pleasant change if you want to explore the other side of the Krkonoše Mountains.

Suitable for: a short trip by car, families, couples, a more relaxing day away from Harrachov.

Tip: Before you set off, check the parking arrangements, admission fees and current conditions on the Polish side. Popular waterfalls can get quite busy during the high season.

Routes suitable for children

When out with children, choose shorter routes with a clear destination. The best options are the Mumlava Waterfall, Rýžoviště or a shorter walk around Harrachov. Children usually find it easier to manage the route when they know where they’re going and what to expect there.

Longer walks such as Krakonošova snídaně, Ručičky or Štěpánka are more suitable for older children who are used to walking. Consider source of Elber or Dvoračky as full-day walks for more experienced families.

Itineraries for couples and a relaxing weekend

If you’re travelling to Harrachov as a couple and don’t want to tackle any strenuous hikes, a combination of a shorter trip and some relaxation works well. One day, visit Mumlavský Waterfall or Rýžoviště; the next day, head to Devil’s Mountain or walk a shorter section of the Mumlava Valley trail.

Over the long weekend, you can add a longer walk to the Krakonova snídaně or a drive up to Štěpánka. This ensures the programme isn’t monotonous and that each day has a slightly different feel to it.

Things to bear in mind before a trip

• The weather in the mountains changes quickly. Although it’s pleasant in Harrachov, it can be windy, rainy or colder up in the mountains.
• For longer journeys, set off in the morning. You’ll have plenty of time to spare for a slower pace, stops and getting back before it gets dark.
• Sturdy shoes are worth it. Comfortable footwear is sufficient for the waterfall, but for Devil’s Mountain, Ručičky, Dvoračky or Pytlácké kameny, hiking boots are preferable.
• Take some water and a snack. Don’t count on there always being a snack bar open along the way.
• When walking on trails in the KRNAP, please stick to the signposted paths. You’ll be helping to protect the natural environment whilst avoiding unnecessary problems out in the field.
• Expect restrictions in winter and during the off-season. Some routes may be more difficult to navigate, icy or suitable only for those with better equipment.

Suggested itinerary for a weekend break

If you’re only coming for the weekend, don’t try to fit everything in. Harrachov works best when you choose one main route and add a few shorter activities to it.

• Day of arrival: a short walk around Harrachov or to the Mumlava Waterfall.
• The main day: A longer hike, depending on your fitness level, such as Krakonošova snídaně, Devil’s Mountain with Ručičky, or Kořenov.
• Date of departure: a shorter walk to Rýžoviště, a stroll through the town or a relaxing programme.

Where to go during a longer stay

If you’re on a longer holiday, you can combine the routes more effectively. One day, choose an easier walk to the Mumlava Waterfall; the next day, a longer hike into the mountains; and then perhaps a trip by car to Jizerka, Štěpánka or the Polish waterfalls. This way, you’ll get to see more places without wearing yourself out unnecessarily.

A good itinerary for a few days might look like this: the Mumlava Waterfall, Devil’s Mountain, Krakonošova snídaně, a trip to Štěpánka and a more relaxing day in Harrachov.

Accommodation for hikers in Harrachov

If you’d like to set off on hiking trails directly from Harrachov, the Hotel Šedý Vlk could be a convenient base. From the hotel, you can set off on both short walks and longer hikes, and on your return, you can enjoy dinner as part of the half-board package, as well as the swimming pool and sauna.

Would you like to combine hiking in Harrachov with a comfortable stay? Take a look at accommodation in Harrachov or send a non-binding enquiry about availability.

What else is there to do in Harrachov

Pokud plánujete víc než jeden výlet, projděte si také výlety v okolí Harrachova nebo konkrétní tip na Mumlavské vodopády. Pro klidnější pobyt se hodí wellness hotel v Harrachově, pro aktivnější program aktivní dovolená v Harrachově a v sezoně také cyklistika Harrachov.