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Velká Amerika Canyon

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Velká Amerika Canyon (Czech Republic)

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Velká Amerika (Great America) is a partially flooded limestone quarry near Prague and is often referred to as the 'Czech Grand Canyon'. The huge quarry, up to 100 meters deep and 800 meters long, with its turquoise lake at the bottom, has a wide-open sight. It is the largest of several quarries in the region where limestone was mined in the 20th century. Today, entering the quarry is officially forbidden and dangerous as the rock faces are unstable. Nevertheless, the place attracts adventurers, photographers and filmmakers. There are several official viewpoints along the edge that allow a safe view of the impressive scenery. A network of underground tunnels connects the various quarries. The unique setting has served as a filming location for several Czech films, including the popular western 'Lemonade Joe'.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-2-138131720191493-1
Rain mm433340376976787954474444

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
Typically accessible via hiking trails from the vicinity of Karlštejn Castle in the Czech Republic. The paths lead directly to the upper edges of this former limestone quarry.
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Best season
The best time to visit is usually from spring to autumn, when the weather is mild and the canyon's deep scenery is clearly visible.
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Terrain & paths
The terrain mainly consists of dirt paths along the rim, which can be uneven and steep near the edges of this deep valley.
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What to bring
Sturdy walking shoes are highly recommended to safely navigate the rim paths, along with a camera to capture the spectacular views.
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Parking
Visitors typically park at designated lots near Karlštejn or in nearby villages before walking towards the canyon area.
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Safety
Caution is advised near the sheer cliff edges of the former quarry, as drops are significant. Staying on marked trails is generally expected for safety.
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Time needed
A typical visit around the canyon rim generally lasts between one to two hours, depending on the chosen walking pace.

Geography

Coordinates
49.95500, 14.19400

Facts

  • Quarry depth approx. 100 meters
  • Length is about 800 meters
  • Famous filming location for movies
  • Connected by underground tunnels

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Karlštejn CastleKarlštejn Castle2 km · SExplore →
BerounBeroun9 km · WExplore →
Králův Dvůr CastleKrálův Dvůr Castle10 km · WExplore →
Králův DvůrKrálův Dvůr11 km · WExplore →
Lužiny Housing EstateLužiny Housing Estate14 km · NEExplore →
Zbraslav MonasteryZbraslav Monastery15 km · EExplore →
White Mountain BattlefieldWhite Mountain Battlefield16 km · NEExplore →
ZdiceZdice16 km · WExplore →

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 Velká Amerika Canyon (10)

Velká Amerika

A flooded limestone quarry with turquoise water, known as the „Grand America“.

Půlnoční lom

An abandoned quarry that now serves as a habitat for rare animals.

přírodní památka Lom Kozolupy

Protected area featuring a disused quarry and unique geology.

Malá Amerika

A former limestone quarry filled with water, called „Little America“.

Wax Museum🏛 museum

Wax museum displaying figures of historical and famous personalities.

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Karlštejn

Gothic castle founded by Charles IV, known for its valuable wall paintings.

Well Tower🗼 tower

An observation tower providing a panoramic view of the surroundings.

Haknová

A wooded hill with hiking trails and peaceful nature.

Muzeum betlémů🏛 museum

Exhibition of historical and modern nativity scenes from the region.

Dům hodin🏛 museum

Clock museum, visits only by telephone appointment.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is Velká Amerika?
A former limestone quarry, called the 'Czech Grand Canyon' because of its beauty.
Is it allowed to go down into the quarry?
Access to the bottom is officially prohibited for safety reasons.
Is there a circular trail?
Yes, a hiking trail runs along the upper rim and has great views.
Can you swim in the lake?
No, swimming is strictly prohibited and subject to fines.
Which movies were filmed here?
Scenes for movies like 'Lemonade Joe' were filmed here.
Velká Amerika Canyon: where is it located?
Velká Amerika Canyon is located in Czech Republic.
Velká Amerika Canyon: what is there to see?
Highlights include Velká Amerika, Půlnoční lom, přírodní památka Lom Kozolupy.
Velká Amerika Canyon: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Velká Amerika Canyon: why is it worth visiting?
Velká Amerika (Great America) is a partially flooded limestone quarry near Prague and is often referred to as the 'Czech Grand Canyon'.
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