Helenčiny vodopády

Helenčiny vodopády is a scenic waterfall on the Lužec stream (also known historically as Nivský potok), located within the cadastral area of the village of Boleboř in the Krušné hory (Ore Mountains), roughly 13 km north of central Chomutov. It's a favorite short-hike destination in the region — a compact but striking spot where the stream drops over a rocky ledge, forming a cascade about 4 meters high, followed by two smaller steps and rapids further downstream.

How to get there?

The most convenient starting point is the village of Svahová, where a path marked with a red tourist trail begins at the edge of the settlement. The route runs about 2 km through forest on a rocky, occasionally narrow path, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The waterfall sits right next to a wooden footbridge, at the point where the red trail from Svahová to Lesná crosses the Lužec stream — the E3 cycling route between Lesná and Svahová also passes nearby. You can drive as far as Svahová or nearby Lesná, then continue on foot.

What will you see there?

The main draw is the waterfall itself — a rock step where the stream falls about 4 meters into a small pool before continuing over additional, lower steps. The site is surrounded by dense, shaded deciduous forest, which keeps the area noticeably cool even on hot days, making it a popular spot to cool off in summer. Interestingly, the stream's natural flow is only about 60 liters per second, but it has been artificially boosted to roughly 100 liters per second using water supplied from the nearby Kachní and V Díře ponds — so the waterfall looks impressive year-round rather than only after snowmelt or heavy rain. Old German maps labeled the site Aubachfall bei Neuhaus; the name Helenčiny vodopády only became common through more recent regional publications.

When to visit?

The waterfall can be visited year-round, though water flow and surrounding greenery are at their best in spring and early summer. In summer it's a popular natural "cooling spot" for hikers exploring the Krušné hory, while autumn brings extra color from the surrounding deciduous forest. In winter, the approach can be tricky due to icy rocks and snow on the forest path, so extra caution is advised.

Frequently asked questions

How tall is the waterfall? Helenčiny vodopády is about 4 meters high, with two smaller steps and rapids just below the main drop.

Where's the best place to start the hike? The village of Svahová is the most convenient starting point — a red-marked trail leads about 2 km along a rocky path directly to the waterfall.

Does the waterfall have water all year? Yes. Although the natural flow is only about 60 l/s, it's artificially supplemented with water from the Kachní and V Díře ponds up to around 100 l/s, so the waterfall looks impressive regardless of season.

What was the waterfall called in the past? Old German maps recorded it as Aubachfall bei Neuhaus, before the current Czech name Helenčiny vodopády became widespread.