Quick Guide: Are Karlovy Vary Forest Paths Cleared in Snow?

The municipal services prioritize the busiest walking routes. Paths connecting major viewpoints like Diana or the Three Crosses are usually plowed. You should expect packed snow rather than bare pavement in the forest. If there is heavy snowfall, it may take time to clear every path. Always check the local weather before heading out into the hills. The official Karlovy Vary tourism site often provides updates on trail accessibility.

• Best overall: Diana Observation Tower Path
• Best for views: Three Crosses Lookout
• Best for families: Teplá River Promenade
• Best free activity: Deer Jump Lookout

9 Best Winter Walking Trails in Karlovy Vary

Exploring the woods is a highlight of this UNESCO World Heritage city. These nine spots offer the best winter experiences. Most are accessible from the spa zone. Please wear sturdy shoes as surfaces can be slippery.

1. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Sight/Viewpoint Why go: It offers the most famous panoramic view of the snow-covered city. Best for: Iconic photos and easy access. Where: Atop Friendship Height. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free tower entry; funicular has a fee. Getting there: Take the funicular from Grandhotel Pupp or follow the Diana hiking trail. Tip: The funicular is great if you want to avoid the uphill climb in the snow.
2. Name: Deer Jump Lookout (Jelení skok) Type: Viewpoint Why go: This is the city's oldest lookout structure and features a famous chamois statue. Best for: History lovers and photographers. Where: On the slopes above the Market Colonnade. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the yellow markers from the town center. Tip: Check our guide on the Deer Jump walk for the easiest route.
3. Name: Three Crosses (Tři kříže) Type: Viewpoint Why go: It provides a unique perspective of the valley and is usually very quiet in winter. Best for: Peace and quiet. Where: On the eastern hill above the city. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up from the Richmond Hotel area. Tip: The path is steep, so take your time if it is icy.
4. Name: Goethe’s Path Type: Nature walk Why go: A gentle, romantic path along the river that leads to the Art Gallery. Best for: A relaxed afternoon stroll. Where: Southern end of the spa zone. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Start at the Grandhotel Pupp and walk south. Tip: This path is almost always cleared and very flat.
5. Name: Peter the Great Lookout Type: Viewpoint Why go: Commemorates the Tsar's visit and offers a stunning view of the forest. Best for: History buffs. Where: Near the Diana Tower. Time: 30 minutes (from Diana). Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the forest paths from the Diana funicular top station. Tip: Look for the wooden cross and the bust of the Tsar.
6. Name: Findlater’s Temple Type: Architecture/Nature Why go: A classicist arbour that looks beautiful against a snowy backdrop. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: In the forest near the Teplá river. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the green trail from the city center. Tip: The path here is sheltered by trees, providing cover from wind.
7. Name: Teplá River Promenade Type: Urban walk Why go: See the steaming thermal springs and the grand architecture of the colonnades. Best for: Seeing the main sights without entering the forest. Where: City center. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Start at the Thermal Hotel and walk toward the Richmond Hotel. Tip: This is the most well-maintained path in the city.
8. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Experience Why go: A great indoor break if the forest paths become too cold or snowy. Best for: Craftsmanship and souvenir shopping. Where: Kpt. Jaroše district. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee for museum/factory. Getting there: Use local bus lines 1, 2, or 22. Tip: Book the factory tour in advance to ensure a spot.
9. Name: Loket Castle Type: Day trip Why go: A stunning medieval castle in a nearby village that looks like a fairy tale in winter. Best for: A full-day adventure. Where: Loket town, 12km from Karlovy Vary. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Entry fee for castle; bus/train fare. Getting there: Take a bus from the main terminal or a train from the Karlovy Vary railway station. Tip: The walk around the castle walls is very scenic in the snow.

Essential Gear for Karlovy Vary Forest Paths

Safety is key when walking in the Czech winter. While many paths are cleared, ice can form quickly as temperatures drop in the evening. We recommend reading about the best winter boots for Karlovy Vary hilly walks before you pack. Waterproof shoes with a good grip are essential for the forest trails. You should also dress in layers to stay warm while moving. The local transport authority provides buses if you get too tired to walk back. Always carry a fully charged phone and a map of the forest trails.