Until recently, Czechia did not have a thru-hike. Luckily for us, that has changed because it now has the Czech Trail or the “Stezka Českem.” The trail consists of two parts, the northern and southern routes, which are each 1000 kilometers. If you hike both parts, you will cross the entire country. A group of enthusiastic thru-hikers developed the trail because they felt that hiking a long-distance trail was the best way of experiencing the nature and culture of Czechia.
The Northern Trail
Most hikers choose to hike the Northern Trail. It takes you thru the mountains and crosses more than 30 mountain peaks above 1000 meters, including the highest mountain in Czechia: the Sněžka (1603 meters). You can hike the trail in both directions; however, it is easiest to start in the west. The most difficult part, the Beskiden, lies east and is saved for last by doing it like this. The mountains might not be as high as in the Alps, but you will be amazed by the diversity and wild nature of this country. Some areas might be lesser known and you will not pass many other hikers, whereas in the more touristic areas you can enjoy the hospitality of the locals.
The Southern Trail
You are also able to choose the Southern Trail. This part of the trail is not as popular, and you will not encounter many other thru-hikers. Despite this, the trail has a lot to offer. The Šumava mountains and the hidden Bílé Karpaty a Javorníky are examples. Some parts are more flat and remote, and because you will hike in the backcountry, it seems as if time stands still. Most hikers walk the Southern Trail from east to west.
There is more: Czechoslovak Trail
Do you want to hike some more? No problem! Martin, the founder of the Czech Trail, made sure that you can combine the Czech Trail with the Ceste Hrdinov SNP, a 770-kilometer-long thru-hike in Slovakia. If you combine both trails you can hike 1700 kilometers thru Czechia and Slovakia: the Czechoslovak Trail.
Good to know
If you want to hike the complete trail in one go, it is best to start between May and August to make sure you finish before the end of September. During the low season, some mountain huts and restaurants are closed or only open during the weekends. If you leave earlier, be prepared for cold and rainy weather. Take a sleeping bag or liner with you for your stays in the mountain huts and take hiking poles to unburden your knees during as- and descending. Be aware that the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so be prepared for all weather conditions.
Handy links
More info: Czech Trail
The guidebook: Buy it here or here
Facebook Group: Stezka Českem
More info: Czecho Slovak Trail
