Medvědí vodopády

Medvědí vodopády (Bear Waterfalls) is a two-tiered waterfall in the Ore Mountains (Krušné hory), reached from the village of Nová Ves u Křimova, roughly 13 km from Chomutov near the German border. It remains a relatively little-known destination for hikers who prefer wild, unspoiled corners of the range over crowded, developed viewpoints.

Where exactly is the waterfall?

The waterfall sits on a left-bank tributary of the Chomutovka River, in the upper part of Bezručovo údolí (Bezruč Valley) in the Krušné hory. The starting point for the hike is the village of Nová Ves u Křimova, located about 13 km from Chomutov in the direction of Chemnitz, Germany. The village has its own parking area and a train station, Nová Ves u Křimova, making it reachable both by car and by rail.

How do you get to the waterfall?

A forest road runs through Bezručovo údolí, and near the so-called Pašerácký dům (Smugglers' House) a footpath branches off, climbing alongside the Pekelský potok (Hell Creek) and ending just below the falls. The final stretch runs through forest terrain that is steep in places, so the waterfall is only reachable on foot — no vehicle access is possible beyond the trailhead. Sturdy hiking shoes are recommended, especially after rain, when the path can get slippery.

What will you see there?

The waterfall drops in two stages, 3 and 5 meters high, cutting through a narrow gorge carved into massive orthogneiss rock. The gorge walls rise more than 20 meters, creating a secluded, almost hidden spot deep in the forest — a very different experience from the more developed, better-known waterfalls elsewhere in the Czech Republic. The surrounding protected area also includes other points of interest, notably the Sedm nosů (Seven Noses) rock formation, along with remnants of a former, now-defunct railway line that once crossed the area.

When is the best time to visit?

The best time to come is in spring, right after the snow melts, or during periods of autumn or spring rainfall, when the Pekelský potok carries the most water and the waterfall is at its most impressive. In summer, especially during drier spells, the water flow can drop noticeably. Given the steep, forested approach, it's best to plan the hike for daylight hours and avoid the trail after dark.

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Medvědí vodopády? The waterfall has two tiers, 3 and 5 meters high, dropping through a gorge with walls over 20 meters tall.

Where's the best starting point for the hike? The village of Nová Ves u Křimova, accessible by car (parking available in the village) or by train (Nová Ves u Křimova station).

Is the trail to the waterfall difficult? Yes, the final stretch along the Pekelský potok is steep and runs through forest — accessible only on foot, and sturdy footwear is recommended.

What else is worth seeing nearby? The Sedm nosů rock formation and the remains of a disused historic railway line, both part of the same protected natural area.