Rock Sculpture Trail
Rock Sculpture Trail
4.9
(218)
3,517
hikers
Rock Sculpture Trail
01:25
3.65km
150m
Hiking
Hike to Szczeliniec Wielki from Karlow, an easy 2.3-mile route with 483 feet of gain, featuring unique rock formations and panoramic views.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
1.38 km
PTTK mountain hut on Szczeliniec
Highlight • Mountain Hut
Translated by Google •
Tip by
1.53 km
Szczeliniec Wielki
Highlight • Summit
Translated by Google •
Tip by
2.39 km
Viewpoint near Szczeliniec Wielki
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
3.65 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
2.77 km
816 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
2.43 km
1.16 km
< 100 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (900 m)
Lowest point (760 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Monday 25 May
26°C
9°C
-- %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: -- km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the hike to Szczeliniec Wielki take from Karłów?
The ascent to the summit of Szczeliniec Wielki from Karłów typically takes between 30-40 minutes to an hour for experienced hikers. This duration covers the climb up the stone steps to the top.
What is the difficulty level of this hike?
This hike is generally considered to be of easy to medium difficulty. While the ascent involves climbing between 665 and 680 stone steps, it is suitable for most fitness levels and is a popular choice for families. Komoot categorizes the route as 'easy'. However, some parts within the 'Skalny Labirynt' (Rocky Labyrinth) can be steep and require sure-footedness.
What is the terrain like on the trail to Szczeliniec Wielki?
The trail from Karłów primarily features a significant ascent via 665 to 680 stone steps carved into the rock. Once on the summit, you'll navigate the 'Skalny Labirynt', a natural maze of deep crevices, moss-covered steep rock walls, and narrow passages.
Where can I park when hiking to Szczeliniec Wielki from Karłów?
The main starting point for this hike is Karłów, where parking facilities are available. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as parking can fill up quickly.
What unique features or viewpoints can I expect to see on this route?
The route offers spectacular panoramic views of the Sudetes mountain range and the Kłodzko Area from various viewing terraces. The summit itself is famous for its uniquely shaped sandstone rock formations, resembling animals and objects like the Pradziada Chair, Małpolud, Kwoka, Słoń, Kaczęta, and Wielbłąd. You'll also pass the PTTK mountain hut on Szczeliniec and reach the Szczeliniec Wielki summit, with a Viewpoint near Szczeliniec Wielki offering stunning vistas.
Are there any facilities or places to rest on Szczeliniec Wielki?
Yes, at the summit of Szczeliniec Wielki, you'll find the PTTK Mountain Hut "Na Szczelińcu". It provides a place for refreshments and can offer accommodation, though online booking is recommended due to high demand.
Is the trail to Szczeliniec Wielki dog-friendly?
Generally, dogs are not permitted on the tourist trails within the 'Skalny Labirynt' of Szczeliniec Wielki. However, they can be brought to the mountain hut itself.
Do I need to pay an entrance fee or get a permit for Szczeliniec Wielki or the National Park?
Yes, the trail through the 'Skalny Labirynt' on Szczeliniec Wielki is paid. It is advisable to secure tickets online during peak season to avoid queues. The entire massif is part of the Góry Stołowe National Park, which aims to protect its unique sandstone formations. For specific regulations or permits related to the National Park, you can check the official website: pngs.gov.pl.
When is the best time of year to hike Szczeliniec Wielki?
The trail is accessible for much of the year. However, the best time to visit is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is most favorable for hiking. During winter, conditions can be challenging, and parts of the trail might be covered in snow or ice, especially within the labyrinth where snow can linger as late as July.
Does this trail connect with other hiking paths?
Yes, the route to Szczeliniec Wielki from Karłów intersects with several other paths. It follows the 'Ścieżka Skalnej Rzeźby' and 'Trasa turystyczna im. Franciszka Pabla' for significant portions. It also briefly crosses sections of the 'Dolnośląski Szlak Papieski' and the 'Main Sudetes Trail'.
Is this hike suitable for families with children?
Yes, this hike is very popular with families and is generally considered suitable for children. While there are many stone steps to climb, the path is well-defined, and the unique rock formations and labyrinth at the top provide an engaging experience for younger hikers.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
Route report: https://youtu.be/WHddb5aoI8w?si=FcuJ-16CzBSB87fn
Szczeliniec Wielki is the highest peak of the Table Mountains, located in the central part of the Sudetes in the Table Mountains National Park. The Table Mountains are the only mountains in Poland with a plate structure with rock formations carved in sandstone by nature. The highest point is located on the paid tourist route of the rock labyrinth. The route leads along footbridges, stone and metal stairs directly to the highest viewing platform of Szczeliniec Wielki, named after the rock formation Liczyrzepa's Throne or Pradziad's Armchair. The peak is one of the most interesting in the Crown of Polish Mountains.
The Fichtelgebirgsverein (FGV) Oberkotzau on a hiking trip in the Czech Republic. Today we took a trip to nearby Poland, not the first time I was in Poland, but the first time I went hiking there. The Great Heuscheuer is the highest mountain in the Heuscheuer Mountains in Poland, at 919 m high. The best way to reach it is from Karłów. But be careful: an endless number of steps lead up to the mountain ridge on its plateau; we stopped counting at almost 900. At the top, a circular hiking trail leads through a varied sandstone landscape peppered with many interesting rock formations, which offers some not-so-easy passages, but also incredible views! Info: In order to be able to walk the circular route to the summit, you have to pay an entrance fee! After the descent, treat yourself to a beer at one of the numerous souvenir and/or snack stands, which isn't exactly cheap! Be that as it may - the impressions you gain make up for it!
Szczeliniec Wielki, included in the Crown of Polish Mountains, is the highest and most interesting mountain in the entire range (919 m above sea level). 680 stone steps lead to the top, and the characteristic flat top is a huge rock labyrinth. Walking between rock shelves, squeezing between cracks and admiring the fanciful effects of rock erosion, you get the impression of being in a truly fairy-tale world. Besides, it is enough to look at the rock formations growing out of the ground.
