Event overview: Inauguration of the cross-border hiking trail Hřensko – Schmilka
On 11 April 2026, a new cross-border hiking trail linking Hřensko in the Czech (Bohemian) Switzerland National Park and Schmilka in the Saxon Switzerland National Park will be officially opened. National park directors Petr Kříž and Uwe Borrmeister will lead a guided inauguration hike that highlights a careful balance between visitor experience and nature conservation.
Quick facts
- Date: 11 April 2026
- Meeting time and place: 11:00 in Hřensko
- Estimated end: around 15:30 in Schmilka
- Distance and terrain: nearly 3 km, demanding mountain path
- Guides: Petr Kříž (Bohemian Switzerland National Park) and Uwe Borrmeister (Saxon Switzerland National Park)
- Registration required for the guided opening hike until 7 April via the official registration portal
The inauguration celebrates a short but challenging mountain path of roughly three kilometres that runs as an alternative to the main road, connects key viewpoints and attractions, and is well integrated with local bus services. After successful test hikes in the previous autumn, the route is now signposted for year-round use and available to individual hikers outside of the official opening event.
Guided opening hike: what to expect
The guided inauguration is a moderated hike led by the two national park leaders. The group will set off from Hřensko at 11:00 and follow the new mountain trail toward Schmilka, arriving in the late afternoon. Participants should expect uneven terrain, steep sections, and narrow paths typical for a demanding mountain route. The hike offers scenic outlooks, interpretive moments about landscape management, and a chance to learn first-hand about cross-border collaboration between the two parks.
Participation and registration
Attendance on the guided opening hike requires prior registration by 7 April through the official registration channel. Spaces are limited for safety and management reasons. Individual hikers who do not join the guided opening can use the trail independently after the inauguration, as the route is signposted year-round.
Route highlights and attractions
The trail links several notable natural and interpretive sites. Walkers will pass by or obtain views of the Prebischtor rock gate, enjoy the Fénix viewpoint near Mezná, and experience the themed Erlebnispfad ‘Path to Wilderness’ on the Reitsteig. These highlights were considered when planning the trail to offer memorable scenic moments while directing foot traffic away from sensitive areas.
- Prebischtor (iconic rock gate and major tourist attraction)
- Fénix viewpoint near Mezná with panoramic scenes
- Erlebnispfad ‘Path to Wilderness’ along the Reitsteig for nature interpretation
Conservation, planning and Natura 2000 considerations
The trail project followed extensive terrain work and an assessment under Natura 2000 guidelines. Environmental measures were planned to minimize impacts on protected species and habitats. The Natura 2000 review recommended careful mitigation steps and monitoring to ensure that conservation goals are upheld while allowing people to enjoy the landscape.
Mitigating measures include route alignment to avoid sensitive sites, targeted habitat restoration where needed, and ongoing monitoring to track any effects on wildlife. These steps reflect a management approach that seeks to combine visitor access, high-quality hiking experiences, and long-term nature protection.
Practical information for hikers
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Trail length | Nearly 3 kilometres |
| Difficulty | Challenging mountain path; suitable for experienced walkers |
| Signage | Year-round waymarking and information panels |
| Public transport link | Well connected to local bus services (line 435) |
| Access | Open to individual hikers year-round after the opening; guided hike requires prior sign-up |
| Safety note | Wear sturdy footwear, bring water and weather-appropriate clothing |
Leadership and local perspectives
The inauguration is led by Petr Kříž, Director of the Bohemian Switzerland National Park, and Uwe Borrmeister, Director of the Saxon Switzerland National Park. Their joint leadership underlines cross-border cooperation in landscape protection, visitor management, and sustainable tourism development.
A message from the parks
Petr Kříž highlighted the practical work behind the route: the national park administration implemented a series of terrain measures to create a well-walkable path. He emphasized that the parks are pleased to introduce the route to the public and that design and planning took conservation needs into account to protect species and habitats.
How to join and recommended preparations
If you wish to join the guided opening hike, please register by the stated deadline. For anyone planning to walk the trail independently, the route is freely accessible and signposted year-round. Respect trail rules, keep to the marked path, and follow guidance from park staff during organized events.
- Register for the guided opening by the announced deadline if you want to participate with the group.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and weather-appropriate clothing; expect steep and uneven sections.
- Bring water, snacks, and any personal first-aid items you may need.
- Use public transport where possible; the trail is well connected to local bus services.
- Observe all signage, keep dogs under control, and avoid disturbing wildlife or vegetation.
