Karpacz Biały Jar - Śnieżka Trail
Karpacz Biały Jar - Śnieżka Trail
4.7
(210)
1,460
hikers
Karpacz Biały Jar - Śnieżka Trail
05:53
13.7km
780m
Hiking
This difficult 8.5-mile hike to Śnieżka, the highest peak in the Karkonosze Mountains, offers panoramic views.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
4.55 km
Trail through Lomniczka Cathedral
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
6.63 km
Sněžka Meteorological Observatory
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
9.74 km
Kopa (Karpacz) Upper Cable Car Station
Highlight • Rest Area
Translated by Google •
Tip by
13.7 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
6.84 km
3.70 km
2.34 km
803 m
Surfaces
5.31 km
4.38 km
3.34 km
440 m
151 m
< 100 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (1,580 m)
Lowest point (800 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Thursday 7 May
9°C
2°C
32 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 5.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it typically take to complete this hike?
The ascent to Śnieżka from Biały Jar is estimated to take between 3 to 3.5 hours, while the descent can be completed in about 2.25 hours. These times can vary based on individual pace and trail conditions.
Is this trail suitable for beginners or families with young children?
This trail is considered difficult, especially the climb to the summit of Śnieżka. While some parts might be manageable for families with older, experienced hiking children, it is generally not recommended for very young children due to its strenuous nature and significant elevation gain.
What is the terrain like on the way to Śnieżka?
The terrain is varied. You'll encounter natural soil paths, sections with constructed brick circuits, and mostly large stones, especially as you ascend. Higher elevations can be slippery, so sturdy hiking boots are essential. The black trail is generally well-paved, while the red trail is a bit more challenging.
What are the main highlights and viewpoints along the route?
The trail offers exceptionally picturesque scenery. Key highlights include the dramatic post-glacial Kocioł Łomniczki (Łomniczka Cirque) and views of the beautiful Łomniczka Waterfall. You'll also pass the Trail through Lomniczka Cathedral and reach the summit of Śnieżka, where you can visit the unique Sněžka Meteorological Observatory and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views. The Kopa (Karpacz) Upper Cable Car Station is also nearby.
Are there any entrance fees or permits required for this trail?
Yes, as the trail is located within the Karkonosze National Park, an entrance fee is typically required. You should check the current regulations and fees before your visit.
What is the best time of year to hike to Śnieżka from Biały Jar?
The trail is best enjoyed from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when conditions are generally more favorable. During winter, specific sections of the trail are closed due to avalanche danger.
Are there any specific safety considerations or closures during winter?
Yes, due to the tragic history of avalanches in Biały Jar, the section from the "Nad Łomniczką" mountain hut to "Dom Śląski" (Pass under Śnieżka) is closed in winter. Always check current trail conditions and weather forecasts before heading out, especially outside of peak season.
Is the Karpacz Biały Jar - Śnieżka Trail dog-friendly?
As the trail is located within a National Park, specific regulations regarding dogs may apply. It's best to check the Karkonosze National Park's official rules regarding pets before planning your hike.
Where can I park to access the Karpacz Biały Jar - Śnieżka Trail?
Parking is available in Karpacz, typically near the trailhead or in designated parking areas within the town. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.
Are there any facilities or places to get refreshments along the trail?
Yes, you will pass by the "Nad Łomniczką" mountain hut, which offers catering services. It's unique in the Giant Mountains for operating without electricity. There are also facilities at the summit of Śnieżka and near the Kopa (Karpacz) Upper Cable Car Station.
Does this route intersect with other well-known paths?
Yes, the route intersects with several other trails. Notable sections include parts of the Main Sudetes Trail, the Polish-Czech Friendship Trail, and the Via Czechia - Severní (7. Krkonoše).
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
I definitely recommend doing the tour in reverse due to the condition of the trail. It's very beautiful up to the Silesian House at the foot of Sněžka. The rest of the route was incredibly crowded—most people probably took the cable car up and only walked the short distance to the summit.
My phone always reminds me of what I did that day in previous years. And interestingly, for the last two years, for @Nika🌳 and I, May 29 has been themed "Mountain" with "...Snow..." in the name. 😂 Two years ago and last year we went to the high Schneeberg and so the Schneekoppe fit perfectly into the scheme today. 😁 I don't know exactly how many times I've been to Sněžka. I can remember 2.5 times. Why 2.5? 🤔 I think I was up there several times in my childhood, but I can only remember the 0.5... When I was a little boy, probably elementary school age, it was so stormy on the hike that I was scared to be blown away. 🙈😂 My mother also had big problems with the wind, so we waited in the Dom Śląski chalet for the others to climb the peak... But now I've become more daring. 😜 Today was a relatively short tour, but with the 800 meters in altitude it was already an intense tour. If you are looking for a longer tour, you can look at my last ascent from three years ago. 😉 https://www.komoot.de/tour/213473419 Today I hiked up Snezka from the Polish side for the first time. What we didn't know and what an employee of the national park immediately pointed out to us, that we need a ticket for the Polish national park... . 😳 You can save this money from the Czech side. 🤑 However, it was only 2€ per person and if it serves to preserve the national park, why not? 😊 After we dutifully bought our ticket, the path was initially steep, but still beautiful through the green forest. 🌳 The trees got smaller and smaller until finally only crippled pines could prevail and we reached the plateau at the previously mentioned Dom Śląski cottage. From there it went the remaining 200 meters to the bare and stony summit. 🏔 The weather was just fantastic with the pure sunshine we had today. We had a great view, even if it was a bit hazy. 🤩 Nevertheless, the wind was (as always) very cold up there, so you didn't want to stay too long on the summit. 🌬☀️ For the descent, we first chose the gentle "road" and from the Dom Śląski the red-marked path, which very quickly lost altitude and then led us a long way through the forest almost flat back to our parking lot. Overall it was a very nice tour and it's a pity we didn't have more time in the Giant Mountains. 😊 Unfortunately, I had to cross something off my bucket list today... Cycling is forbidden in the Polish National Park, so the idea of climbing Sněžka on a mountain bike never came to fruition. 🚳😒
Note: The bridge is dismantled in the winter months! The path then leads directly through the stream over the stones (if you're lucky).
The starting point was the cable car in Karpacz, so we immediately gained altitude. (50 zloty one way) Once at the top we followed the red hiking trail to the Schlesinger Bauda. Then the right steep path up to the Schneekoppe. We had great weather, great views. Upstairs there is a small chapel and a post office with a snack (Czech). We walked down the somewhat leisurely path. Back to the Schlesinger Bauda and then down the red path, back to the cable car. The paths are quite difficult to walk, lots of stones, big and small, Walking shoes are definitely a must.
Final hike to Snezka... from the bottom, we took the chairlift to Kopa, then to the Silesian Hut, and then up to the summit. We then descended along the Jubileum Trail back to the Silesian Hut, and then continued on foot to the car... It was gigantic in fairly alpine terrain, but the path was relatively comfortable with large cobblestones. The higher we climbed, there were also patches of snow, cold winds, and short sleet showers. So, it's a special mountain where you should be well prepared... from the Czech side, you can take the gondola directly up, which is the option for light hikers 😉... Up there, there are many trails to continue hikes in various directions with very beautiful panoramic views... 😍 One caveat: the mountain is very busy, with hundreds of hikers on the trail, not all of them prepared... The pictures are out of order, uploaded from GoPro...
Nice walk with children from the Koppe to Snieska and back down to Karpacz along the red path. Challenging, but manageable with a 5 and 8 year old child.
Tour with 2-year-olds (baby carrier), 3-year-olds (Kraxe), 4 and 6-year-olds (completely on foot) made children
