Since getting back from the PCT, long trips have been few and far between. But I’m trying to squeeze in at least some day trips, longer than our usual two-hour dog walks with the girls. This was my first foray beyond the immediate Prague vicinity. 😊
Initially, I’d planned a route from home to Český Šternberk, then continuing to the cabin the next day. But I decided to link them up, so I hopped on the 7:30 AM train from Prague to Liberec, with a transfer in Turnov. Along the way, groups of hikers with packs gradually joined, but by Liberec, I was the sole disembarkee.
I rolled into Liberec around 10 AM, greeted by chilly, overcast skies. Good thing I had my rain jacket stashed in my pack.
Starting in Liberec and the Journey to the Town Hall
I knew I needed to head straight for the city center from the train station. By the town hall, I stumbled upon an interesting dog statue (or whatever it was).
I got a bit turned around there; the signs for the ZOO weren’t always crystal clear. Mapy.cz saved the day, and I soon hit the ZOO, gratefully making use of the facilities. I cruised past the ZOO, where families with kids and smaller groups were all headed.
Onward to Rudolfov and Bedřichov
I continued solo towards Rudolfov. I passed a couple of families out for a stroll, happy to see people enjoying the outdoors, even with rain threatening. The trail warmed me up, so off came the fleece.
Soon enough, I hit Bedřichov. I’d only ever heard of the place, but it felt peaceful and welcoming. I checked out the Jizerská 50 start line, then kept pushing on the red trail.
The Czech Trail and Josefův Důl
From the green trail, above the Josefův Důl reservoir, I linked up with the blue Czech Trail (Stezka Českem), which then switched back to green. That route took me past Mariánskohorské boudy, Albrechtice in the Jizera Mountains, and up to Špičák, from where I dropped down towards the cabin.
All in, I covered a solid 30+ kilometers in 6 hours. My hips, unfortunately, took a beating from all the pavement pounding, but thankfully, they were good to go the next day.
Wrap-up and Reflection
Even though it was a tougher trek, it delivered plenty of interesting moments and fresh experiences. Liberec and the Bedřichov area definitely have their charm. Every day spent on the trail holds its own value. 😊
