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Bohemian Forest National Park adventures

Bohemian Forest National Park Adventures

Bohemian Forest National Park is the Czech Republic’s first national park, offering expansive old-growth forests, glacial lakes, and rugged mountains ideal for hiking, wildlife watching, and tranquil nature experiences.

93,000
Acres Protected
350
Miles of Trails
450,000
Annual Visitors
1991
Year Established

About Bohemian Forest National Park

 

Bohemian Forest National Park, officially established in 1991, covers a significant portion of the southwestern Czech Republic along the border with Germany and Austria. It protects one of Central Europe's largest continuous forest complexes, part of the larger Bohemian Forest (Šumava) mountain range. The park features a mix of dense spruce, fir, and beech forests, peat bogs, and extensive wetlands that support a diverse range of flora and fauna, including lynx, Eurasian otter, capercaillie, and several rare plant species. The varied terrain includes gently rolling hills, ridge tops, and glacially formed lakes such as Černé jezero, the largest natural lake in the country. Historically, the area was shaped by centuries of traditional forestry and limited settlement, which allowed its ecosystems to remain relatively undisturbed. Today, the park offers well-maintained hiking trails, cross-country skiing in winter, and educational nature paths. Visitors can explore landmarks like the Březník observation tower for panoramic views and visit peat bogs with boardwalks that reveal unique ecosystems. The park is an important conservation area contributing to biodiversity preservation and cross-border cooperation with the Bavarian Forest National Park in Germany. It appeals to nature lovers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts looking for serene wilderness experiences in Central Europe.

Highlights

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Černé jezero (Black Lake) - the largest glacial lake in the Czech Republic

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Expansive old-growth forest ecosystems supporting lynx and capercaillie

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Březník Observation Tower providing panoramic views of the park and surrounding regions

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Boardwalk trails through pristine peat bogs and wetlands

Notable Natural Features

Černé jezero (Black Lake)

A large glacial lake surrounded by dense forest, offering tranquil scenery and fishing opportunities.

Poledník Observation Tower

A wooden observation tower providing sweeping views of the Bohemian Forest foothills and beyond.

Šumava Peat Bogs

Unique wetland ecosystems with boardwalk trails that allow visitors to explore fragile and rare plant habitats.