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Black Lake
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Lake
Černé jezero (Black Lake) is the largest and deepest natural lake in the Bohemian Forest and the entire Czech Republic. This glacial lake, formed during the last ice age, is located at an altitude of 1,008 meters at the foot of the Jezerní hora (Lake Mountain). Its maximum depth reaches an impressive 40.6 meters. The lake owes its name to the dark color of its water, which is caused by the reflection of the surrounding dense forests and a thick layer of sludge at the bottom, consisting of deposited pollen from coniferous trees. The lake and its surroundings are part of the Black and Devil's Lakes National Nature Reserve. The Černý potok (Black Brook) flows from the lake into the valley. A special technical monument is the pumped-storage hydroelectric power plant built in 1929-1930, which uses the lake as its upper reservoir. The lake is a popular hiking destination, although swimming is prohibited to protect the unique ecosystem.
- Location: Czech Republic
- Top sights: přírodní památka Královský hvozd · national nature reserve Bílá strž · národní přírodní rezervace Černé a Čertovo jezero
- Nearby: Sušice (25 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -3 | -2 | 3 | 8 | 12 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 13 | 8 | 3 | -1 |
| Rain mm | 78 | 58 | 64 | 49 | 89 | 99 | 97 | 100 | 68 | 64 | 63 | 73 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The glacial lake is typically reached via well-marked hiking and cycling paths starting from the nearby mountain resort town of Železná Ruda. The approach involves a scenic walk through the Bohemian Forest, as direct car access is strictly prohibited.
Best season
Summer and early autumn are generally the most rewarding times to view the lake's dark, reflective surface beneath the dramatic rock wall. In winter, the area transforms into a snowy landscape, typically requiring snowshoes or cross-country skis.
Terrain & paths
The main approach trail is relatively wide and evenly paved or graveled, offering an accessible route through the forest canopy. The immediate surroundings of the lake are dominated by the steep rock wall and dense, ancient woodlands.
What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes or basic hiking boots are usually sufficient for the main path to this popular natural lake. Due to unpredictable mountain weather, packing a lightweight rain jacket and carrying some water is always a practical choice.
Parking
Visitors typically utilize the large public parking areas located at Špičácké sedlo or within the town of Železná Ruda. From these designated spots, you must proceed on foot or bicycle to reach the secluded glacial lake environment.
Safety
Swimming in the lake is strictly forbidden to protect the fragile glacial ecosystem and preserve the pristine water quality. Keep a safe distance from the base of the looming rock wall, as rockfalls can occasionally occur without warning.
Time needed
A standard round-trip hike from the nearest parking areas to enjoy the views of the deep lake generally takes about two to three hours. Many visitors choose to combine this with a visit to nearby Devil's Lake, turning it into a half-day excursion.
Geography
Facts
- Surface area of 18.4 hectares
- Maximum depth of 39.8 meters
- Elevation of 1,008 meters
- Formed by glacial activity
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Black Lake (6)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Black Lake?
The largest and deepest glacial lake in Czechia, located in Šumava.
Is swimming allowed in Black Lake?
No, swimming and water sports are strictly prohibited in the nature reserve.
How deep is the lake?
The maximum depth of the lake is about 40 meters.
Can you drive directly to the lake?
No, the lake is only accessible on foot or by bike from Špičácké sedlo.
What other lake is nearby?
Devil's Lake (Čertovo jezero) is located nearby, separated only by the Rozvodí ridge.
Black Lake: where is it located?
Black Lake is located in Czech Republic.
Black Lake: what is there to see?
Highlights include přírodní památka Královský hvozd, national nature reserve Bílá strž, národní přírodní rezervace Černé a Čertovo jezero.
Black Lake: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Black Lake: why is it worth visiting?
Černé jezero (Black Lake) is the largest and deepest natural lake in the Bohemian Forest and the entire Czech Republic.
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