Preparing for Your Hike to the Three Crosses

Before you set off, you need to prepare for a moderate climb. The paths in the spa woods are well-maintained but can be steep in certain sections. Most visitors find that a basic level of fitness is enough for this journey. You should check the local weather forecast on the Visit Czechia website before heading out. Rain can make the forest floor slippery and obscure the beautiful views from the top.

The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon. The golden hour light makes the pastel-colored buildings of the city glow beautifully. If you visit in 2026, expect the trails to be popular during the summer film festival. Always bring a bottle of water, as there are no shops once you enter the woods. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for the uneven terrain.

• Checklist:
• Sturdy walking shoes or sneakers
• A fully charged smartphone for navigation
• Refillable water bottle
• Light jacket for the windy summit
• Camera or high-quality phone camera

How to Find the Three Crosses Viewpoint Step-by-Step

Finding the start of the trail is the most important part of your journey. Many people get lost because they start at the wrong colonnade. Follow these steps to ensure you reach the summit without any stress. This route is part of the famous hiking trails in Karlovy Vary spa woods that locals love.

1. Step 1: Locate the Start Point. Go to the Vřídelní Street area near the Hot Spring Colonnade. Look for the yellow trail markers painted on trees or wooden posts. This takes 5 minutes and costs nothing. Common mistake: Following the green or blue markers by accident.
2. Step 2: Enter the Forest Path. Follow the yellow signs leading uphill behind the buildings. The path begins to climb immediately through dense trees. This section takes about 15 minutes of steady walking. Common mistake: Walking too fast and getting exhausted early.
3. Step 3: Navigate the Switchbacks. The trail will zig-zag up the hillside to reduce the steepness. Stay on the main path and ignore small, unofficial dirt tracks. This part takes 10 minutes and is located in the mid-forest zone. Common mistake: Taking shortcuts that lead to dead ends.
4. Step 4: Arrive at the Three Crosses. You will see the large wooden crosses appearing through the trees. Follow the final flat stretch to the wooden viewing platform. This final step takes 5 minutes and offers the reward of the trip. Common mistake: Stopping at the lower bench and missing the actual summit.

Alternative Routes and Shortcuts to the Viewpoint

If the steep climb sounds too difficult, there are easier ways to reach the top. You can use the local public transport system managed by Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary to save your energy. One popular method is taking the Diana Funicular to the middle station called Jelení skok. From there, you can follow the ridge path which is much flatter than the direct ascent. This is a great way to see other hidden viewpoints in Karlovy Vary along the way.

Another option is to take a local bus to the higher parts of the city. Look for routes that stop near the Panorama Hotel. From this elevated position, the walk to the Three Crosses is mostly level. This is the best choice for families with small children or those with limited time. You can find more tips in our alternative guide to Karlovy Vary for unique experiences.

What to See at the Three Crosses Summit

Once you arrive, the Three Crosses (Tři kříže) stand as a powerful monument. They were erected around 1640 to symbolize the successful re-catholicization of the region. The wooden structures are tall and can be seen from the valley below. Standing next to them gives you a sense of the scale of the surrounding landscape. You can learn more about the city's history on the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism website.

The main attraction is the panoramic view of the Teplá River valley. You can see the Grandhotel Pupp and the Imperial Hotel clearly from this height. Near the crosses, you will also find a small stone building called the Camera Obscura. While it is not always open, it is a fascinating piece of local architecture. Take your time to enjoy the peace of the woods before heading back down.

Troubleshooting Your Hike in Karlovy Vary

Even well-prepared hikers can run into trouble on the forest trails. If you lose sight of the yellow markers, stop immediately and head back to the last one you saw. The forest can be confusing if you wander off the designated paths. Mobile signals are generally good, but some deep ravines may have dead zones. Always tell someone your planned route before you start your hike.

• Common Problems and Solutions:
• Lost the trail: Return to the last visible yellow paint marker on a tree.
• Sudden rain: Seek shelter under the wooden gazebos scattered along the paths.
• Running out of daylight: Always start your descent at least one hour before sunset.
• Path is blocked: Do not climb over fallen trees; look for the official detour signs.
• Sore knees: Use the switchback paths rather than walking straight down the slope.
• Crowded platform: Wait five minutes; most groups leave the summit quickly.