Waterfall Szklarki

The beautiful wide cascade of water falling from over 13 metres has been a major attraction for tourists for many years. Although it is the second highest waterfall in the Polish Karkonosze Mountains, it does not fall short in charm compared to other tourist attractions within the Karkonosze National Park.

The Szklarka Waterfall is located just before entering Szklarska Poręba, close to national road No. 3. Remember that there is an entrance fee for the Karkonosze National Park. We have two hiking options to reach our destination. The first option is a good solution for families with children in strollers, as a comfortable wide path leads to the waterfall, which can be traversed with a relaxed 15-minute walk. We start this path right at the parking lot, along national road No. 3, where we can also find a ticket office for park entrance fees. However, if we prefer to exert ourselves a bit more, we can choose the second option, which begins in Szklarska Poręba, on 1 Maja Street. Those with vehicles can leave their cars in the parking lot right next to the Hutnik Inn. From there, we face about a 2-kilometre walk down the black trail to the waterfall. The whole trip should take us no more than an hour, although the return journey will involve a small uphill stretch.

We will hear our destination before we see it – the sound of the rushing water carries far. At the waterfall, we will find a small PTTK shelter charmingly named “Kochanówka”. It is worth climbing onto a small metal platform located just by the shelter, from where we will have a very good view of the waterfall. If you're curious about the origin of the waterfall's name, be sure to check out the legend of the Glassmaker, his daughter, and the spirit of the mountains…

Photo and text author: Ewa Bandyk