Planning your hike to the Three Crosses

Before you start, check the local weather forecast. The trails can become very slippery after heavy rain. Wear shoes with good grip to handle the steep forest sections. Most hikers find that a light snack and water are enough for this short trip.

Timing is also very important for photographers. Early morning provides soft light over the red rooftops. Sunset is also spectacular but requires a flashlight for the walk down. This location is one of the best sunset spots in Karlovy Vary without crowds.

• Checklist:
• Comfortable hiking shoes or sneakers.
• At least 500ml of water per person.
• A fully charged smartphone with offline maps.
• Light jacket for the windy summit.
• Camera or phone for photos.

How to hike to the Three Crosses viewpoint step-by-step

Follow these steps to reach the summit safely. The trail is well-marked but requires some physical effort. Always stay on the designated paths to protect the local environment.

1. Step 1: Start at the Hot Spring Colonnade. Walk to the Vřídelní Colonnade in the town center. Locate the yellow trail markers near the bridge. Typical cost: Free. Time: 5 minutes. Common mistake: Starting at the wrong colonnade.
2. Step 2: Follow the yellow markers uphill. Look for the yellow stripes on trees and lamp posts. The path begins behind the buildings on the eastern side. Typical cost: Free. Time: 10 minutes. Common mistake: Missing the initial trail entrance.
3. Step 3: Ascend the forest staircase. You will encounter a series of stone and wooden steps. Take breaks if needed as the incline is steady. Typical cost: Free. Time: 15 minutes. Common mistake: Walking too fast and getting exhausted early.
4. Step 4: Reach the Three Crosses summit. The trail opens up into a grassy plateau with three large wooden crosses. Enjoy the panoramic view of the entire valley. Typical cost: Free. Time: 5 minutes. Common mistake: Stopping at the lower benches before the actual top.

Choosing the right route for your fitness level

There are several ways to reach this iconic spot. If you want a challenge, the direct yellow trail is the best choice. It is short but steep, making it a great morning workout. You will gain about 150 meters in elevation quickly.

For a more leisurely experience, consider starting from the Diana Funicular station. You can walk across the ridge from the lookout tower. This route is mostly flat and goes through beautiful beech forests. It is perfect for families or those with limited mobility.

You can also find other hidden spots in Karlovy Vary along these side trails. Some paths lead to old gazebos or small chapels. Always check a map to see which path suits your energy levels. If you enjoy nature, try exploring Little Versailles Karlovy Vary before heading up the hill.

Essential logistics and typical costs for 2026

Hiking to the viewpoint is generally free of charge. There are no entrance fees for the trails or the summit itself. However, you might spend money on transport to reach the trailhead. The Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary operates frequent buses to the center.

A single bus ticket costs around 25 to 40 CZK in 2026. If you arrive by train, the Karlovy Vary railway station official site provides schedules. From the station, it is a 20-minute walk to the start of the trail. Most people spend about 1.5 to 2 hours for the entire round trip.

Troubleshooting common problems on the trail

Even short hikes can have unexpected challenges. Being prepared helps you avoid stress during your visit. Here are the most common issues travelers face on this route.

• Faded Markers: Some yellow paint on trees may be hard to see in autumn. Use a GPS app to stay on track.
• Slippery Mud: The forest floor stays damp long after rain. Avoid the steep shortcuts and stay on the main path.
• Limited Lighting: The trail is not lit at night. Always bring a headlamp if you plan to watch the sunset.
• Path Closures: Check the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism site for maintenance alerts. Sometimes fallen trees block the way.
• Physical Strain: The steps are high and can be hard on knees. Take the longer, flatter route if you have joint pain.
• Mobile Signal: Signal can be weak in the deep forest. Download your maps for offline use before you leave.