5 recommended trails in the Karkonosze Mountains – an idea for an active weekend in the mountains
Autumn colors in the Karkonosze Mountains are a natural spectacle: golden, red, and orange leaves, morning mists rising above valleys, contrasting with granite rocks and early frosts. It's the perfect moment to head out on a mountain trail—not necessarily during the full summer tourist flow, but in a quieter, atmospheric version. The Karkonosze and their trails appear exceptionally picturesque in autumn, and every step along the mountain ridges is pure pleasure for nature lovers and photographers.
Below we present 5 trails that perfectly fit an autumn trip with Pałac Pakoszów as the base. Each has a different difficulty level—from an easy walk, through a moderately difficult route, to a full mountain day.
For trekking and hiking enthusiasts, we have prepared a selection of routes, including the easiest trail to Szrenica as well as the more demanding red trail to Śnieżka.
Note: Autumn weather in the mountains can be changeable – considering fog, moisture, earlier twilight—it's good to bring rainwear, layered clothing, good shoes with grip, and check the trail status. From Pałac Pakoszów, you have an excellent location as a starting point. It is an ideal base for the most beautiful trails in the Karkonosze and Izera Mountains.
1. Trail to Szrenica (easy/moderate)
Starting point: center of Szklarska Poręba (or parking near Kamieńczyk Waterfall)
Summit: Szrenica (1362 m above sea level)
Trail marking: mainly red trail (part of the Main Sudetes Trail) and black/green variants.
Length: approx. 8–12 km depending on the variant. For example: about 12 km from Szklarska Poręba, total ascent ~691 m.
Estimated time: approx. 3-4 hours (easier variant) up to ~4.5 hours at a relaxed pace.
Distance from Pałac Pakoszów: The palace is in Piechowice, near Szklarska Poręba (about 10 km) — so about 10 km to the center of Szklarska, approx. 15 min drive by car.
Description: Start in Szklarska Poręba, follow the red trail to Szrenica via Kamieńczyk Waterfall and Szrenicka Clearing, all the way to the Szrenica summit. This is one of the most popular and beautiful trails in the Karkonosze. The route offers lovely views, autumn forest colors, and a relatively gentle ascent (compared to more difficult ridges). For guests of Pałac Pakoszów, it is a very convenient choice—quick access, possibility of shorter time in the mountains, and beautiful panoramas. Ideal autumn option "for an afternoon". Also a perfect idea for those looking for the easiest trail to Szrenica with a beautiful scenic route.
2. Yellow trail to Śnieżka via "Pilgrims" and "Sunflower" (medium)
Starting point: Karpacz – near Wang Temple (Biały Jar parking)
Summit: Śnieżka (1603 m above sea level)
Marking: yellow trail to Śnieżka (section from Wang Temple through Pilgrims → Sunflower → Silesian House → Śnieżka).
Length: approx. 10.2 km (one way)
Estimated time: about 4 hours climbing (without long breaks)
Distance from Pałac Pakoszów: Piechowice → Karpacz about 17 km, approx. 25 min drive by car (subject to road conditions)
Description: The route goes through autumn forests, then the rocky formations of Pilgrims and Sunflower (great viewpoints), and then to the summit of the highest peak in the Karkonosze—Śnieżka. It is the most beautiful trail to Śnieżka for those who appreciate varied views and contact with nature. Autumn adds a unique atmosphere to this hike—mists around the rocks, golden maples along the path. For hotel guests, it's a great "full day" mountain proposal. After conquering the summit – time for a well-deserved rest and descent.
3. Trail to Śnieżne Kotły (intermediate/difficult)
Starting point: Szklarska Poręba – parking near the lower cable car station to Szrenica or Szklarska Poręba center
"Summit"/goal: Śnieżne Kotły (two glacial cirques: Small and Large – spectacular rock formations)
Marking: green or red trail (part of the main ridge) – exact markings may vary depending on the variant.
Length: loop approx. 21.7 km (from Szklarska) – time about 7 hr 30 min. Another variant – about 19 km and 7 hrs.
Estimated time: a whole day in the mountains (6-8 h)
Distance from Pałac Pakoszów: Piechowice → Szklarska Poręba about 10 km, approx. 15 min drive by car.
Description: In autumn, this is a unique proposal for those who want to "go deeper" into the mountains. The route leads through beautiful ridge sections, with views of the steep cirque walls (wall heights even 150–200 m). The Śnieżne Kotły trails are regarded as some of the most beautiful in the Sudetes—especially in the morning, when the sun highlights the contrast between mist and granite. Start early, bring supplies and good equipment – autumn can bring slippery rocks and quicker darkness.
4. Trail to Wielki Szyszak (advanced)
Starting point: from Szklarska Poręba center or nearby parking – various variants
Summit: Wielki Szyszak (1509 m above sea level)
Marking: one of the variants is the red trail (part of the main ridge) or the route from Karpacz via Wielki Szyszak to Szklarska.
Length: e.g. from Szklarska to Wielki Szyszak approx. 20 km, time about 7 hours. Another variant 21.9 km and 7 hours 16 min.
Estimated time: full day, with a significant ascent (~1100 m elevation gain in one variant)
Distance from Pałac Pakoszów: Piechowice → Szklarska Poręba about 10 km, approx. 15 min drive by car.
Description: This is a proposal for fit mountain tourists. Autumn conditions add character to the trip—colder mornings, strong colors in the valleys, possible precipitation and moisture in higher parts. It is advisable to start in the morning, with enough time and equipment. The views from Wielki Szyszak are very satisfying, and the palace base at Pałac Pakoszów fits perfectly as accommodation before or after such a day. The Wielki Szyszak trail leads through less frequented parts of the Karkonosze, so it's worth choosing if you look for peace and wild nature. The ridge views are among the most extensive in the entire Sudetes. It is also one of the lesser-known trails in the Karkonosze, ideal for those who want to discover something outside the main tourism stream.
5. Red trail to Śnieżka (more difficult)
Starting point: Karpacz – Biały Jar parking near the Orlinek ski jump
Summit: Śnieżka (1603 m above sea level)
Marking: red trail through Łomniczka Valley („Zakosy”) – one of the more attractive but demanding variants.
Length: e.g. approx. 16 km round trip (depending on the variant)
Estimated time: approx. 5-6 hours or more, depending on pace, conditions, and breaks.
Distance from Pałac Pakoszów: Piechowice → Karpacz about 17 km, approx. 25 min drive by car.
Description: This is an autumn challenge—colder conditions, possible moisture, rocky path and greater elevation changes. The trail goes through the Łomniczka Valley, making it very impressive in terms of views. The Łomniczka Valley trail is one of the most beautiful routes in the Karkonosze, offering wonderful views of the Jelenia Góra Basin and the Śnieżka summit. After reaching the top, joy and satisfaction are guaranteed. Staying at Pałac Pakoszów after such a day is an excellent end to the trip. It is the perfect conclusion to a mountain adventure in the heart of the Sudetes.
Best trails in the Karkonosze - brief summary
If you are looking for an easy, short trip — choose Szrenica (point 1).
For intermediate level — the yellow trail to Śnieżka (point 2) or Śnieżne Kotły (point 3).
For experienced and those planning a full day in the mountains — Wielki Szyszak (point 4) or the red trail to Śnieżka (point 5).
Pałac Pakoszów is an excellent base for trails in the Karkonosze and Izera Mountains. After a day spent in the mountains, it’s worth returning to the hotel SPA, having dinner in an elegant restaurant, and resting surrounded by baroque interiors. This is a place where luxury meets nature, and every expedition ends with comfort and peace.