Two iconic glacial lakes. Set out from Špičák via Devil’s Lake to Black Lake and back to Špičácké sedlo. The approximately 8.5 km loop takes you through forests, uphill sections and offers views of Jezerní hora. Although the lakes lie close to each other, each belongs to a different drainage basin. While water from Black Lake flows via the Vltava and Elbe rivers into the North Sea, Devil’s Lake drains towards the Danube and the Black Sea.

8.5 km | moderately challenging hike

Looking for a shorter hike with a rewarding destination? Head up Špičák. From the car park, it’s approximately 4 km with 400 metres of elevation gain. At the top, you’ll find a lookout tower and a restaurant.

4 km | approx. 400 m elevation gain | cable car option

One of the most beautiful viewpoints in the Šumava mountains. From the summit of Pancíř, you’ll have views across both the Czech and Bavarian sides of the mountains, including Velký Javor (Großer Arber). On a clear day, you may even be able to see as far as the Alps. You can hike to Pancíř from Špičák, Špičácké sedlo or Železná Ruda. If you want to shorten the hike, you can also take the chairlift to the top.

approx. 8 km | chairlift option

The smallest and shallowest of the eight glacial lakes in the Šumava mountains. You can hike to Jezero Laka directly from Železná Ruda via Debrník and the Nad Polomem saddle. The full route is approximately 10 km. If you want to shorten the hike, drive to Nová Hůrka and continue from there along an easy trail through Hůrka. The 4.2 km route to the lake is easy and suitable for walking, cycling or taking a stroller.

10 km from Železná Ruda | shorter option: 4.2 km from Nová Hůrka

The highest waterfall on the Czech side of the Šumava mountains. It is 7 metres high and lies in the valley of the Bílý potok stream, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Bílá Strž National Nature Reserve. You can reach the waterfall, for example, from Černé jezero by following the red hiking trail. Combine the trip with a visit to Černé jezero for a pleasant full-day outing.

4 km from Černé jezero

A full-day hike for those who want to discover the Šumava mountains from the Bavarian side. The route starts in Zwieslerwaldhaus and leads through ancient forests and the Rukowitzschachten mountain pastures to the summit of Velký Falkenstein. From the top, you’ll enjoy impressive views of Velký Javor (Großer Arber), the Šumava mountains and the Bavarian Forest. The return route takes you through the Höllbachgespreng primeval forest, along rocky terrain, cascades and waterfalls. This is where the hike takes on its more adventurous character.

15 km | full-day hike | moderate difficulty

The highest mountain in the Bavarian Forest. Velký Javor reaches an elevation of 1,456 metres and offers views across the Šumava mountains and Bavaria. You can hike to the summit from several directions or make the ascent easier by taking the cable car. Combine your trip with a visit to Velké Javorské jezero (Great Arber Lake) or choose one of the hiking routes from the Bavarian side.

1,456 m above sea level | cable car option