Choosing Your Route to the Deer Jump Statue

Before you start, you must decide which path fits your fitness level. There are two primary ways to reach the famous chamois statue. The most popular option is the Deer Jump Lookout hiking trail starting from the town center. This route is steep but offers beautiful forest scenery along the way.

If you prefer a more relaxed experience, you can use the local funicular. This cable railway carries passengers from the valley floor up to the Diana Observation Tower. It stops halfway at the Jelení skok station, which is very close to the statue. This is the best choice for families with small children or those with limited mobility.

For the best experience in 2026, consider hiking up and taking the funicular down. This allows you to enjoy the physical challenge while saving your knees on the descent. You can find more information about the city on the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism website. Always check the weather before you head into the woods.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Hike to the Deer Jump Statue

Hiking to the lookout is a straightforward process if you follow the right markers. The trails in the Czech Republic are very well-signed with color-coded wooden posts. For this specific landmark, you will mostly follow the yellow trail markers. Here is the exact process to reach the statue from the heart of the spa zone.

1. Find the trailhead: Go to the area behind the Vridlo hot spring geyser. Look for the yellow trail signs pointing toward the forest. Time: 5 mins. Cost: Free. Location: Near the colonnade. Mistake: Starting at the wrong spring.
2. Begin the ascent: Follow the paved and dirt paths as they wind upward into the trees. Keep a steady pace as the incline is quite sharp in some sections. Time: 15 mins. Cost: Free. Location: Forest trail. Mistake: Walking too fast and getting tired early.
3. Navigate the junction: You will reach a small intersection with several trail colors. Stay on the yellow path and look for signs saying "Jelení skok." Time: 5 mins. Cost: Free. Location: Trail crossing. Mistake: Accidentally following the green trail to the tower.
4. Arrive at the statue: The path will level out as you reach the rocky outcrop. You will see the metal chamois statue standing on a large stone. Time: 5 mins. Cost: Free. Location: Deer Jump lookout. Mistake: Climbing on the statue, which is prohibited.

Once you arrive, take some time to learn about the legend of the chamois statue in Karlovy Vary. Local lore says a deer jumped from this cliff to escape a hunting party. This event supposedly led King Charles IV to discover the healing thermal springs. The views from this spot are among the best in the entire region.

Using the Diana Funicular for an Easier Trip

If you want to save time, the funicular is an excellent alternative. The lower station is hidden in a small alleyway near Grandhotel Pupp. You can check the schedule on the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary website. The cars run every 15 minutes during the peak tourist season.

Buy a ticket for the middle station, which is called Jelení skok. The ride only takes a few minutes and offers a unique perspective of the city rooftops. Once you exit the car, follow the signs pointing downhill toward the lookout point. It is a very easy walk that takes less than five minutes on a flat path.

After seeing the statue, you can walk back to the station and continue to the top. This is where you will find the Diana Observation Tower guide useful. The tower offers an even higher view of the surrounding Ore Mountains. There is also a restaurant and a small butterfly house at the summit.

Essential Preparation and Packing Checklist

Even though this is a short hike, you should come prepared. The weather in the mountains can change quickly, even in the summer. Wearing the right gear will make your trip much more enjoyable. Use this checklist to ensure you have everything you need before leaving your hotel.

• Sturdy shoes: The paths can be uneven and rocky in some sections.
• Water bottle: There are no shops on the trail itself.
• Camera or phone: You will want to capture the view of the colonnades.
• Light jacket: The forest can be much cooler than the sunny streets below.
• Offline map: Phone signals can sometimes drop in the thick woods.

If you are planning a longer stay, visit the Visit Czechia website for more regional tips. Most hikers find that a small backpack is sufficient for this trip. Remember to carry out any trash you bring with you to keep the forest clean. Respecting the local environment is a key part of Czech hiking culture.

Troubleshooting Common Hiking Issues in Karlovy Vary

Hiking in a foreign city can sometimes lead to minor challenges. Most issues are easy to solve if you know what to expect. Here are some common problems travelers face when trying to find the Deer Jump statue.

• Slippery Ground: Rain makes the stone steps very slick. Move slowly and use handrails where available.
• Language Barriers: Signs are often in Czech. Look for the word "vyhlídka" which means lookout.
• Funicular Maintenance: The cable car closes for service in early spring and late autumn. Always check the official site before you go.
• Wrong Station: Do not get off at the top station if you only want to see the statue first. The middle stop is much closer.
• Crowded Platforms: The lookout is small and gets busy at sunset. Arrive early in the morning for a quiet experience.
• Trail Closures: Occasionally, fallen trees might block a path after a storm. Follow any detour signs posted by the city.
• Limited Sunlight: The forest gets dark quickly after the sun goes down. Start your hike at least two hours before dusk.