Krkonoš National Park: Your Ultimate Guide to Czechia’s Highest Peak

The Krkonoš National Park (Krkonošsko) is one of the Czech Republic's most revered natural treasures. Located in the northeastern region of the country, this park is home to the towering Krkonoš Mountains—the highest mountain range in the Czech Republic. Known for its dramatic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and exceptional hiking trails, Krkonoš National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
 

Whether you’re planning a hiking expedition, a skiing holiday, or a relaxing escape into nature, Krkonoš offers something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the park’s history, main attractions, best hiking trails, and travel tips.

📍 Location of Krkonoš National Park

Country: Czech Republic

Region: Hradec Králové, Liberec

Nearest City: Liberec (~50 km), Hradec Králové (~100 km)

Coordinates: 50°42′40″N 15°41′55″E

Krkonoš National Park spans the Krkonoš Mountains and borders Poland to the north. The park is easily accessible from major Czech cities such as Prague, Liberec, and Hradec Králové.

🏞️ History of Krkonoš National Park

Krkonoš National Park was established in 1963 to protect the region’s unique ecosystems, which include subalpine meadows, alpine plants, rare wildlife, and pristine forests. Today, the park covers around 370 square kilometers, making it one of the largest national parks in the Czech Republic.

The park also protects Krkonoš (often referred to as the Czech Alps), the highest mountain in the Czech Republic, which towers at 1,603 meters above sea level. The region’s dramatic landscapes, combined with a mix of Czech and Polish cultural influences, have made Krkonoš a significant destination for both natural and historical exploration.

✨ Why Visit Krkonoš National Park?

Highest Mountains in the Czech Republic: Home to Sněžka, the Czech Republic’s highest peak.

Diverse Flora and Fauna: Rare alpine flowers, towering forests, and unique wildlife.

Hiking Trails: Over 800 kilometers of hiking paths for all levels.

Winter Sports: Skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing during the winter months.

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve: Recognized for its ecological value.

Whether you want to immerse yourself in nature, take part in outdoor activities, or simply escape to the peace of the mountains, Krkonoš has something to offer.

🚶‍♂️ Hiking in Krkonoš National Park

🏞️ Popular Hiking Trails

Sněžka Summit Trail

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 8 km (round trip)

Duration: 4-5 hours

Description: This trail takes you to the summit of Sněžka, the highest peak in the Czech Republic. The trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountain landscape and is one of the most popular hikes in the park.

Krkonoš Ridge Trail

Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

Length: 16 km

Duration: 6-7 hours

Description: This trail follows the Krkonoš Ridge, offering views of the Polish and Czech sides of the Krkonoš Mountains. Along the way, hikers will encounter alpine meadows, dense forests, and beautiful valleys.

Modrý Důl

Difficulty: Easy

Length: 7 km

Duration: 2-3 hours

Description: This scenic trail through the Modrý Důl Valley is perfect for beginners and families. It passes through lush forested areas and offers stunning views of waterfalls and the surrounding mountains.

Mendel Trail

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 13 km

Duration: 5 hours

Description: This trail explores the natural history of Krkonoš, passing through ancient beech forests, past crystal-clear streams, and alongside impressive rock formations. The Mendel Trail also commemorates Gregor Mendel, the father of modern genetics, who studied the region’s natural diversity.

🌿 Flora and Fauna of Krkonoš National Park

🐾 Wildlife

Krkonoš National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, from small insects and birds to larger mammals. Some of the notable species you may encounter include:

Mammals: Red deer, roe deer, wild boar, Eurasian lynx, and the occasional brown bear (though sightings are rare).

Birds: Golden eagles, woodpeckers, and the black grouse.

Reptiles and Amphibians: Common lizards, frogs, and salamanders.

🌸 Flora

The park's biodiversity is remarkable, thanks to its wide range of altitudes and ecosystems. You’ll find:

Alpine plants: Alpine gentians, edelweiss, and various species of mosses.

Forest flora: Spruce, beech, and fir trees dominate the lower altitudes.

Mountain meadows: The meadows are alive with wildflowers, particularly during the spring and summer months.

🎿 Winter Sports in Krkonoš National Park

Skiing: The Krkonoš region is one of the best destinations for skiing and snowboarding in the Czech Republic. Resorts like Špindlerův Mlýn and Harrachov offer modern ski lifts and well-maintained slopes for all skill levels.

Cross-country skiing: There are more than 200 km of cross-country ski trails throughout the park.

Winter hiking: Many of the park’s hiking trails are accessible year-round, though be prepared for snowy conditions.

📸 Best Photography Spots in Krkonoš

Sněžka Summit: The panoramic views of the Czech and Polish landscapes are breathtaking, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Černý Důl: The picturesque Černý Důl valley is perfect for capturing the serene beauty of the park’s natural surroundings.

Rivers and Waterfalls: The Mumlava Waterfall and the Elbe River are stunning natural features worth photographing.

Alpine Meadows: The wildflowers and lush greenery during the summer months offer excellent opportunities for nature photography.

🏨 Where to Stay Near Krkonoš National Park

There are several accommodation options for visitors to Krkonoš National Park, ranging from cozy guesthouses to luxury hotels:

For a more rustic experience, there are also mountain cabins and campsites available, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.

🛍️ Souvenirs from Krkonoš National Park

Handmade wool clothing: Local craftsmen create beautiful sweaters, scarves, and hats from wool.

Wooden crafts: The region is known for traditional wooden carvings and toys.

Local honey: Krkonoš honey is famed for its natural sweetness and medicinal properties.

🧳 Travel Tips for Visiting Krkonoš National Park

Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer are ideal for hiking and enjoying nature. Winter is perfect for skiing and snow sports.

Packing: Bring sturdy hiking boots, warm layers for chilly mountain temperatures, and sunscreen (even in winter).

Respect Nature: Stay on marked trails and avoid disturbing wildlife.

Weather: Weather in the mountains can change quickly, so be prepared for sudden rain or snow, even in summer.

🧭 How to Get to Krkonoš National Park

🚗 By Car:

From Prague, Krkonoš National Park is about 2.5 hours by car. Simply head north via D1 and D11 highways toward Liberec.

🚆 By Train:

You can reach Liberec or Hradec Králové by train, then take a bus to specific locations within the park. Trains from Prague to Liberec take around 2 hours.

🧭 Nearby Attractions

Liberec: Explore the Liberec Zoo and Jested Mountain.

Český Ráj (Bohemian Paradise): A UNESCO-listed region with stunning sandstone rock formations.

Adršpach-Teplice Rocks: Explore another unique rock formation in Northeast Bohemia.

🧳 Summary Table

Final Thoughts

Krkonoš National Park is a natural paradise, offering something for everyone. Whether you're hiking the rugged peaks, skiing in the winter months, or simply soaking in the beauty of the alpine meadows, Krkonoš is one of the Czech Republic’s premier destinations for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Don't miss out on experiencing this magnificent park—pack your bags and start planning your visit to Krkonoš National Park today!