3-Day Crossing The Jeseníky Mountains
Why choose this route ?
The Jeseníky Mountains boast long ridges with breathtaking views; unlike the Krkonoše Mountains, you won’t find overcrowded mountain huts here, but rather peace and quiet, the perfect place to escape the daily hustle and bustle.
This three-day trek will take you through one of the Jeseníky mountain ranges, namely Hrubý Jeseník (the other range is Nízký Jeseník). The following days will take you through the Rychlebské Mountains and the separate Králický Sněžník range, making this route a varied and unforgettable mountain experience.
Route
Length: 72.5 km (45 mi)
Elevation: 2471 m (8107 ft)
Days: 3
Direction: Motorest Skřítek -> Praděd -> Červenohorské sedlo -> Keprník -> Ramzovské sedlo -> Kladské sedlo -> Králický Sněžník -> Staré Město pod Sněžníkem
Shorter alternatives possible return points in case of exhaustion or emergency:
Ovčárna: bus back to Motorest Skřítek
Červenohorské sedlo: Bus to Šumperk
Ramzovské sedlo: train/bus to Šumperk
Kladské sedlo: taxi to Hanušovice, then bus to Šumperk
Best to check the bus timetable for the date of your trip
Day 1 - From Skřítek to Červenohorské sedlo
25.1 km, elevation gain 836 m, descent 691 m, highest point 1490 m n. m. - Praděd
The first 4 km feature a steep climb of about 500 m up to the main ridge of the Hrubý Jeseník Mountains. We had fog and strong winds, so there were no views, but the ridge felt like our own private territory.
It’s a good idea to have a windproof jacket for the summit of Praděd, as autumn temperatures can drop to 0°C. After descending along the red trail to the Švýcárna hut, continue on to Červenohorské sedlo, where you’ll spend your first night.
The entire day involves about 7 hours of walking, but the reward is a peaceful mountain atmosphere free of crowds of tourists.
Day 2 - NPR Šerák‑Keprník and Rychlebské hory
28.3 km, elevation gain 966 m, descent 1151 m, highest point 1420 m n. m. - Keprník
The second day begins with an ascent to Keprník and a hike through the Šerák-Keprník National Nature Reserve, which is the most beautiful part of the route. The surrounding landscape will reward you with breathtaking views, and you’ll easily forget about your aching legs.
After descending to Ramzovské sedlo, the route continues through the Rychlebské Mountains, nicknamed the “Forgotten Mountains” due to their low visitor numbers.
The second night is spent at the Kladské sedlo mountain hut, which is very dog-friendly and has a great atmosphere.
Day 3 – Králický Sněžník and the end of the route
19.1 km, elevation gain 669 m, descent 966 m, the highest point 1418 m n.m. - Králický Sněžník
The final day begins with a nearly flat stretch before the trail climbs steeply toward the summit of Králický Sněžník. Just before the summit, you’ll pass the source of the Morava River, the perfect spot for a short rest before the final ascent to the top.
After the ascent, the descent to Staré Město pod Sněžníkem begins, which takes about 2 hours. I recommend considering transportation from Stříbrnice, as you’ll be walking through the entire town unnecessarily.
What to take with you
Autumn weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so I’ve put together a list of recommended gear.
- a lightweight down or hybrid jacket
- a waterproof jacket
- an extra functional layer (ideally merino)
- a backpack with good back ventilation
- trekking poles
- a headlamp
- enough water and energy for the whole day
- for your dog: A raincoat, a travel bowl, and enough food – find more info here
Accommodation and Logistics
- First night: Červenohorské sedlo hut- CASH ONLY, 650 CZK/night + dog for 200 CZK (breakfast included + option of dinner)
- Second night: Kladské sedlo hut – CASH ONLY, 550 CZK/night + dog for free (option of breakfast and dinner)
Travel to start:
Bus from Šumperk to Motorest Skřítek
Parking next to the Motorest Skřítek for 100 CZK/day
Travel back:
train from Staré Město pod Sněžníkem to Šumper (transfer in Hanušovice)
I highly recommend leaving the car in Šumperk, travel to Motorest Skřítek from Staré Město pod Sněžníkem can take up to 4 hours.
Overview
A three-day hike through the Jeseníky Mountains is a great weekend getaway; it’s challenging but accessible. It offers peaceful peaks, beautiful panoramic views, and the chance to spend several days in nature away from the crowds of tourists. Good planning and the right gear make this trek a true outdoor adventure.
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