How to Prepare Yourself for a Winter Hike

Good clothes, quality shoes and a properly packed backpack are essential

Dress well and warmly! Choose good quality sturdy WINTER shoes. Don't underestimate headwear, throw on a neck warmer or scarf. Pack at least one extra layer of clothing - a sweater or sweatshirt. 

And what else shouldn't be missing in your backpack when you head into the winter mountains? Definitely spare clothes (thermal shirt, gloves, hat, socks) first aid kit and headlamp. Food and plenty to drink. Bring a shoe grips or snowshoes.

Don't go alone, or inform your loved ones about the route 

Of course, it is ideal to go into the mountains with at least two people, preferably three. Ski mountaineering in particular is not a sport for singles! If you plan to go hiking alone, tell someone close to you which route you will be taking, or enter your route in the Rescue app. This is done using the Electronic Hike Book function. 

Download the Zachranka and Mapy.cz apps to your mobile phone

Both apps are nowadays among the basic equipment (not only) for mountain hiking. The Zachranka app makes it easier to deal with a crisis situation and can decide whether the integrated rescue system will actually get to you in time. At the touch of a button, you can send an emergency message with information about your exact location and dial 155 at the same time. 

Maps.cz will get you out of almost any jam. Download not only the app, but also offline maps so you don't have to use data to navigate in the field. 

Download Zachranka

Download Mapy.cz

Don't underestimate the mountain weather

We write and talk about it all the time - high mountain weather is tricky, fickle, and its development cannot be predicted 100%. As meteorologist Alena Zárybnická said in our podcast, "Everything is always different in the mountains." There are stronger winds, which makes the weather change faster. Always be equipped for all possibilities and don't be surprised. Check out webcams before your trip, many of them are located on ridges and will give you an idea of the actual weather conditions. 

Webcams in Krkonose

Monitor the avalanche situation and be equipped

The Mountain Service Krkonose regularly informs about the current avalanche situation, the weather on the ridges and the height and structure of the snow cover on its website and social networks. Critical places with a specific danger level are then marked on the map. Avoid these places and be equipped and prepared for the others! How?

Don't go alone and keep a safe distance between you and your friends. Avoid places with deep or packed snow. Equip yourself with an avalanche probe and shovel, pack an avalanche locator and a mobile phone. Use an airbag or backpack that is already equipped with one. If in doubt about the route or have a bad feeling - always decide NO and choose a safe alternative. 

Avalanche forecast

Find out as much as you can about the route, use the mountain huts

Accurate information about the length, elevation and overall difficulty of the route is important. Check if there are any current restrictions or closures on the route. The map portal of the KRNAP Administration can help you with this.

It is also recommended to check whether there are huts, shelters or other refuges along the route for rest or refreshment. Are you planning a multi-day crossing? The article "The Real Krkonose" will help you, where you can find the most important information, suggested routes and selected Krkonose huts whose warmth and safety you can use for overnight stays on the ridges. 

The Real Krkonose

Observe the rules of movement in the national park

The nature of the Krkonose Mountains hides treasures of world significance, which is why it was declared a national park in 1963. The rules of behaviour in its territory are determined by the Visitor Regulations and the laws in force. Let's follow them and preserve the valuable natural heritage. They are simple, easy to understand and respecting them will in no way reduce the quality and intensity of the experience in the fragile landscape. 

The basic rule is - stay on the marked trails! You can read more about them on the KRNAP Administration website. 

Please also note that there are automated recording devices capturing photos and videos in the KRNAP area. These recordings can be used by rangers when dealing with offences. 

Rules of conduct in KRNAP

Beware of different rules in Poland

Even on Polish territory, the nature of the Krkonose Mountains is protected by a national park. However, there are slightly different rules and entrance fees. Keep this in mind if you are planning to descend from the ridges to the Polish side. The fee can be paid online and excludes the Czech-Polish Friendship Trail. Also keep in mind that hiking is only allowed in the Polish part of the park from dawn to dusk, and dogs are only allowed with a muzzle and leash.

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