Góry Stołowe, PNGS

Szczeliniec Wielki: The Rocky Throne

Distance3.3 km
Elevation gain218 m
DifficultyEasy
Estimated time1 h 1 min
Chains: NoTechnical: No

Overview

Szczeliniec Wielki is the Table Mountains' crown: 665 historic stone steps to a maze-like sandstone plateau, the Pradziad "armchair" high point, terraces toward the Karkonosze, and the narrow Piekiełko fissure where snow and ice linger late into the year.

The maze is narrow, stair-heavy, and not stroller territory; dogs are forbidden inside the rock labyrinth even when allowed on approach trails in season. Off-season visits mean unmaintained infrastructure and "at your own risk" conditions.

Expect slow progress through crowds on the summit blocks in summer. The route is as much geological playground as viewpoint—formation names and tight passages define the experience.

Points of interest

  • Karłów — The main mountain village and trailhead hub.
  • Schronisko na Szczelińcu — A historic wooden hut built directly on the cliff edge.
  • Fotel Pradziada — The highest rocky point (919 m) of the entire range.
  • Panoramic Terraces — Viewing platforms with vistas reaching the Karkonosze range.
  • Piekiełko — A narrow, 17-meter deep crack where ice can linger until June.
  • Maze Exit — Point where you can return to Karłów or start the Great Sculpture Traverse (+2:30 h).

Trail alerts

  • Off-Season (Nov–Apr): Ticket offices are closed, but entry is "at your own risk" as technical infrastructure is not maintained.
  • Ice Hazard: Shaded forest segments and stairs remain dangerously icy through May.
  • Maze Rules Apply: Allowed on regular park trails (leashed), but strictly FORBIDDEN inside the summit rock maze area.

Trail character

  • Surface: 665 stone steps on the ascent, narrow winding passages in the maze, and forest dirt trails.
  • Accessibility: Strictly no strollers due to high steps and narrow rock crevices.

Access & rules

  • Parking: Multiple paid parking lots in Karłów.
  • Official Info: Park Narodowy Gór Stołowych (PNGS) — Trail availability and maze rules.
  • National Park Rules: Dogs must be on a leash. Admission fee for the maze applies in season.
  • Sunset Rule: Trails close from dusk to dawn to protect park wildlife.

More routes nearby

  • Szczeliniec & The Sculpture Trail
  • Two Rock Towns: Adršpach to Teplice and back
  • Adršpach and Teplice Long Loop

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