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Devil's Lake
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Lake
Čertovo jezero (Devil's Lake) is another impressive glacial lake in the Bohemian Forest (Šumava), only about 2.5 kilometers from the larger Černé jezero (Black Lake). The lake is located at an altitude of 1,030 meters and, with a maximum depth of 37 meters, is the second deepest lake in the mountain range. Surrounded by dense spruce forests, its water has a mysterious, dark atmosphere, which is enhanced by the shadow of the 300-meter-high Jezerní stěna rock face. The lake is part of the Black and Devil's Lakes National Nature Reserve. A legend says that the devil drowned here while trying to steal a girl's soul, and his body created the lake. A geological peculiarity is that the Devil's Lake belongs to the Danube watershed, while the nearby Black Lake belongs to the Elbe watershed. A scenic hiking trail connects the two lakes, offering spectacular views.
- Location: Czech Republic
- Top sights: přírodní rezervace Brčálnické mokřady · Zámeček Železná Ruda · Muzeum Železná Ruda
- Nearby: Sušice (24 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
Accessing this secluded glacial lake requires hiking exclusively on designated trails, often starting from Železná Ruda or Špičák. There are no direct paved roads, making it notably more difficult to reach compared to the nearby Black Lake.
Best season
The best hiking conditions are generally found from late spring through early autumn when the steep cirque trails are clear of snow. Winter turns the route into a demanding, snow-covered path suitable only for experienced trekkers or snowshoers.
Terrain & paths
The trails leading to the deep cirque are rocky, uneven, and notably steeper than those leading to other regional lakes. The final approach involves navigating rugged forest paths surrounded by dense woods and dramatic, legendary landscape features.
What to bring
Reliable hiking boots with a deep tread are absolutely essential to handle the steep, slippery slopes ascending into the cirque. Bringing a physical map, adequate water, and energy snacks is highly recommended for this challenging trek.
Parking
Most visitors park at the Špičácké sedlo parking lot or in the resort town areas before setting out on the rigorous hike. From these parking zones, there is no transport option; you must rely entirely on your physical endurance to reach the lake.
Safety
Stay firmly on the marked trails as the steep cirque walls are prone to unpredictable rockfalls and hidden crevices. Swimming in the murky waters is completely banned to maintain the wild, undisturbed nature of the glacial environment.
Time needed
The physically demanding round-trip hike typically requires about three to four hours from the nearest official parking zones. Budgeting extra time is wise, as the rugged ascents often force hikers to take frequent resting breaks along the route.
Geography
Facts
- Surface area of 10.3 hectares
- Maximum depth of 37 meters
- Elevation of 1,030 meters
- Located on the European watershed
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 Devil's Lake (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is Teufelssee (Devil's Lake) located?
In the Šumava Mountains on the slope of Mount Jezerní hora.
How was the lake formed?
It is a lake of glacial origin, formed during the last ice age.
Can you swim in the lake?
No, swimming is prohibited to protect the nature reserve.
At what altitude is Teufelssee?
The lake is at an altitude of 1030 meters.
Are there hiking trails to the lake?
Yes, marked trails lead to the lake from Železná Ruda or the Špičák saddle.
Devil's Lake: where is it located?
Devil's Lake is located in Czech Republic.
Devil's Lake: what is there to see?
Highlights include přírodní rezervace Brčálnické mokřady, Zámeček Železná Ruda, Muzeum Železná Ruda.
Devil's Lake: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Devil's Lake: why is it worth visiting?
Čertovo jezero (Devil's Lake) is another impressive glacial lake in the Bohemian Forest (Šumava), only about 2.5 kilometers from the larger Černé jezero (Black Lake).
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