Javor (Karkonosze)

Javor is a modest peak in the Czech part of the Krkonoše (Giant) Mountains, rising right above Pec pod Sněžkou, one of the region's most popular resort towns for hiking and skiing. It reaches an elevation of roughly 1002 metres above sea level, about 1.5 km southeast of the town centre. On older, German-language maps of the region it appears under the name Urlaskoppe.

Javor is far from the highest summit in the Krkonoše range — nearby Sněžka towers well above it — but its proximity to Pec pod Sněžkou makes it an easy, natural target for both walkers and skiers. The mountain lends its name to the Javor piste, one of the longest ski runs in the Czech Republic and a core part of the ski infrastructure at the Pec pod Sněžkou resort.

How do you get to Javor?

The starting point for any visit is Pec pod Sněžkou itself, well connected by road to both the Polish and Czech sides of the Krkonoše. Because the peak sits only about 1.5 km from the town centre, it can be reached on foot in a short time, making it a good option for a short walk or a warm-up before heading deeper into the mountains. In winter, the Javor area is served by the resort's lift infrastructure, with prepared ski runs leading back down toward Pec pod Sněžkou.

What will you see there?

The surroundings of Javor show the typical landscape of the central Czech Krkonoše — gently folded, partly forested slopes descending toward the valley where Pec pod Sněžkou sits. From the higher stretches of terrain, views open up across the surrounding range, including toward the massif of Sněžka, the highest peak in the entire Krkonoše. In summer the area is well suited to relaxed walking away from the crowds, while in winter it becomes part of a fully operating ski area with lifts and lit runs.

When should you visit?

Winter, typically from December to March, is the busiest season — Javor and the surrounding slopes are then fully prepared for skiing, and Pec pod Sněžkou is at its liveliest as a ski destination. In summer and early autumn the area is much quieter and better suited to hiking and longer walks along the trails of the Krkonoše National Park (Krkonošský národní park, KRNAP). Spring and late autumn can bring changeable weather, so it's worth checking the forecast before heading out.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Javor? The peak rises to an elevation of about 1002 metres above sea level, making it a moderately elevated point compared to the highest parts of the Krkonoše range.

Is Javor a good spot for beginner skiers? The Javor piste is one of the longest ski runs in the Czech Republic and forms part of the extensive Pec pod Sněžkou resort infrastructure, which serves skiers of varying levels — it's worth checking the local difficulty markings for specific sections before heading down.

How far is Javor from Pec pod Sněžkou? It's about 1.5 km in a straight line from the town centre, so the peak or its surrounding area can be reached fairly quickly, either on foot or via the lifts during the winter season.

Can you see Sněžka from around Javor? Yes, the higher stretches of terrain around Javor offer views toward the massif of Sněžka, the highest peak in the Krkonoše range, visible on the horizon.