Sněžník sits atop the highest table mountain in Bohemian Switzerland (723m), surrounded by sandstone walls (3-20m high) and a scenic birch forest. The plateau stretches 1.5 km, with a striking stone lookout tower marking the area. Due to erosion, a vast stone field extends along the slopes, offering a mix of beginner-friendly problems and hard lines up to 8B+.
The hard sandstone makes for excellent bouldering, with problems ranging from high and overhanging to low and technical. Small arrows mark the problems, with sit-starts indicated by arrows with horizontal lines. Please treat the rock gently, especially after rain, to preserve Sněžník for future climbers!
HISTORY 📖
The Elbe Sandstone region is the birthplace of free climbing—dating back to 1888 with the first ascent of the Nun tower. Since then, the Czech and German sides have seen 25,000+ routes and 4,000+ boulder problems.
Sněžník bouldering began in 1998, with Rosťa Štefánek establishing the first hard lines—many of which remain the hardest ascents today. The area expanded with public access through the Boulder Cup outdoor event and now features 10 connected sectors.
Key contributors include Rosťa Štefánek, Jaroslav Ježek, Ondřej Beneš, Martin Čermák, Zdeněk Suchý, Martin Jungling, Lukáš Skála, Tomáš Skála, and Jan Novák, who helped develop, clean, and document the area.
RULES & ETHICS
Sněžník is within a Protected Landscape Area—please follow these guidelines:
✔ No climbing on wet/damp rock!! The rock will break.
✔ No fires & respect temporary closures (e.g., nesting birds).
✔ Park only in designated areas; no driving on closed roads.
✔ No modifying the rock (no creating holds).
✔ Leave no trace—bury waste & take trash with you.
✔ Clean tick marks & use natural-bristle brushes.
✔ Stick to existing trails and keep noise levels low.
✔ No burners or aggressive tools that damage the rock.
BEST SEASONS TO VISIT
Bouldering at Sněžník is possible year-round, but each season offers different conditions:
🍂 Autumn (Best Season) – Ideal weather with dry conditions and cool temperatures.
🌱 Spring – Wetter conditions, so plan for possible delays.
☀️ Summer – Climb in shady sectors like Dresden, Ganja Field, and Ve Svahu. For wind and early shade, try East Side, Respekt (morning), or Best of Direct (morning).
❄️ Winter – Expect heavy snow. Best alternatives: Buttermilks in Modřín, Bahratal, and the Elbe Valley. Thanks to Bahratal’s microclimate, it often stays dry even in bad weather. Neighboring Saxony is usually sunny due to the Ore Mountains blocking precipitation.
RENTALS & GUIDING
Need gear? Rent crash pads, chalk bags, brushes, and more from Tisá. Printed topos are also available. Visit www.czechbouldering.com for details.
For a guided tour, local climbers can take you to classic lines or hidden gems while providing gear, transport, and accommodation. Contact us via www.easyclimbing.cz.
Read more
