Planning your Šumava National Park trip from Plzeň

Getting to the park from Plzeň is very convenient for a day trip. Most hikers choose to drive for maximum flexibility. The drive usually takes about 60 to 90 minutes. You should aim for hubs like Železná Ruda or Modrava. These towns serve as great starting points for many adventures. Check the Plzeň Region official site for local road updates before you leave.

Public transport is also a viable option for eco-friendly travelers. You can learn about getting to Šumava from Plzeň without a car to save on parking. Trains run frequently from the main station in Plzeň to Špičák. The train ride offers beautiful views of the Bohemian countryside. Always check the latest schedules on the national rail website. Most trails are well-marked with color-coded signs.

The weather in the mountains can change very quickly. Even in summer, you should bring a waterproof jacket. The higher elevations are often much cooler than the city. Pack enough water and snacks for your chosen route. Many trailheads have small kiosks, but they may close early. Respect the park rules to protect this unique biosphere.

9 best one day hikes in Šumava National Park

Here are the top-rated trails for your next visit. These routes showcase the diverse landscapes of the Bohemian Forest. Use this list to plan your perfect outdoor itinerary.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Black Lake and Devil's Lake
• Best for families: Vydra River Valley
• Best viewpoint: Poledník Lookout Tower
• Best for solitude: Modrava to Březník

1. Name: Black Lake (Černé jezero) Type: Sight/Nature Why go: It is the largest and deepest glacial lake in the Czech Republic. Best for: Photographers and families. Where: Near Železná Ruda. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Park at Špičácké sedlo and follow the yellow trail. Tip: Read our Black Lake trail map for parking details.
2. Name: Vydra River Valley (Povydří) Type: Experience Why go: Walk alongside a wild mountain river filled with massive granite boulders. Best for: Easy walking and nature lovers. Where: Between Čeňkova Pila and Antýgl. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Bus from Sušice or park at Čeňkova Pila. Tip: Stop at Turnerova chata to see the resident otters.
3. Name: Poledník Lookout Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: Get a 360-degree view of the entire park and the Alps on clear days. Best for: Active hikers. Where: Near Prášily. Time: 5-6 hours. Cost: Small fee for tower entry. Getting there: Follow the red trail from Prášily. Tip: The tower is only open from May to October.
4. Name: Boubín Virgin Forest Type: Nature Why go: See one of the oldest protected forests in Central Europe. Best for: History and botany fans. Where: Near Kubova Huť. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the train to Kubova Huť, the highest station in the country. Tip: The core area is fenced, but the perimeter trail is stunning.
5. Name: Plešné Lake and Mt. Plechý Type: Sight/Nature Why go: Visit a dramatic glacial lake and the highest peak on the Czech side. Best for: Experienced hikers. Where: Near Nová Pec. Time: 6-7 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Start at the parking lot in Jelení Vrchy. Tip: Visit the Stifter Monument on the cliffs above the lake.
6. Name: Modrava to Březník Type: Experience Why go: Walk through a wide valley with views of the iconic Luzný peak. Best for: Peace and quiet. Where: Starting in Modrava. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Drive to Modrava and use the central parking lot. Tip: The Březník info center has a great small cafe.
7. Name: Chalupská slať Peat Bog Type: Nature Why go: Walk on wooden boardwalks over a mysterious peat bog lake. Best for: Families with small children. Where: Near Borová Lada. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Easy parking right next to the trail entrance. Tip: This is a very short walk, perfect to combine with other sites.
8. Name: Pancíř Mountain Type: Viewpoint Why go: An easy-to-reach summit with a historic mountain hut. Best for: Great views with minimal effort. Where: Above Železná Ruda. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free (or chairlift fee). Getting there: Take the chairlift from Špičák or hike the blue trail. Tip: The ridge walk from Pancíř to Můstek is very scenic.
9. Name: Tříjezerní slať Type: Nature Why go: Explore a smaller, more intimate peat bog with three dark lakes. Best for: Educational walks. Where: Near Modrava. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the bike path/hiking trail from Modrava. Tip: This trail is paved and suitable for strollers.

Essential tips for hiking in Šumava

When exploring the best one day hikes in Šumava National Park, safety is key. Always stay on marked trails to protect the fragile ecosystem. The Czech hiking marker system uses three horizontal stripes. The middle color (red, blue, yellow, or green) indicates the trail difficulty or importance. You can find more day trips near Plzeň that use this same reliable system.

Mobile signal can be weak in deep valleys or near the German border. It is wise to download offline maps before you head out. The "Mapy.cz" app is the local favorite for hiking. It shows every small trail and spring in the park. You can also visit the Visit Czechia portal for general travel advice. Most mountain huts accept cards, but carrying some cash is safer.

If you plan to visit in autumn, check for seasonal closures. Some areas are restricted to protect local wildlife like the Capercaillie. Always carry a power bank for your phone. If you are hiking alone, tell someone your planned route. Respecting the silence of the forest is part of the local etiquette. Enjoy the fresh air and the unique beauty of this ancient mountain range.