The best MTB trails around Dam Josefův Důl
4.8
(298)
2,733
riders
70
rides
Mountain biking around Dam Josefův Důl offers a variety of routes through the scenic Jizera Mountains. The region is characterized by dense forests, rolling hills, and the prominent Josefův Důl Reservoir, providing diverse terrain for mountain bikers. Trails often feature a mix of forest paths, gravel roads, and singletrack, with elevation changes typical of a mountainous landscape. The area's natural features make it suitable for various skill levels, from leisurely rides to more challenging ascents.
Best mountain bike trails around Dam Josefův Důl
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Mountain Station Knajpa – Josefův Důl Reservoir loop from Josefův Důl, a 32.2 miles (51.8 km) trail that takes 3 hours 28 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers extensive views of the reservoir and surrounding forests.
- Another top favourite among local mountain bikers is Šámalova Chata – Josefův Důl Reservoir loop from Janov nad Nisou, a moderate 9.9 miles (16.0 km) path. This loop provides a balanced ride through woodland and along the reservoir's edge.
- Local mountain bikers also love the Josefův Důl Reservoir – Mountain Station Knajpa loop from Bedřichov, a 36.0 miles (58.0 km) trail leading through varied forest terrain and past the reservoir, often completed in about 4 hours 4 minutes.
- Mountain biking around Dam Josefův Důl is defined by dense forests, reservoir views, and hilly terrain. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult rides, catering to different ability levels.
- The routes in Dam Josefův Důl are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 200 reviews. More than 2,000 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Dam Josefův Důl's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
4.7
(6)
124
riders
51.8km
03:28
810m
810m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
4
riders
15.7km
01:16
320m
320m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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4.7
(6)
166
riders
58.0km
04:05
940m
940m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.8
(4)
77
riders
25.9km
01:50
420m
420m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
24
riders
20.5km
01:27
280m
280m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
It was closed, but there was a cooler with an honesty box under the awning.
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The view even makes up for the still icy path in early spring.
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Nová Louka has a history closely linked to Bedřichov. A glassworks had been operating there since the end of the 16th century, which was run by Johann Josef Kittel in 1756. Because he was prospering successfully and the work of the Bedřichov glassworks was not enough to cover orders, he built a glassworks 2 km further north in the forests, around which a small settlement of several houses (of glassworks employees) arose in the following years. In the deep Jizera forests, there was enough wood available, necessary for lighting glass furnaces and for producing potash - an ingredient for glass raw materials. In 1769, Nová Louka came into the hands of the Riedel family, the most important glass entrepreneurs in the Jizera Mountains. In the middle of the 19th century, the glassworks stopped working due to increasingly unfavorable economic conditions (lack of wood, the advent of more modern technologies in glass production). The glassworks and its associated buildings were demolished, leaving only the so-called Manor House, which was rebuilt into a hunting lodge by the estate (owners of the Nové Louka land).
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Šámalova chata, originally a hunting lodge of the Clam-Gallas family, was used during the First Republic by Dr. Přemysl Šámal, chancellor of President T. G. Masaryk. The interior was paneled with larch and the suite with a bathroom was furnished in the same way as in the Černín Palace. Today, the cottage is used by all tourists to recharge their batteries. Nová Louka is a retreat near Bedřichov located on the Blatný stream in the Jizera Mountains. The only building here today is Šámalova chata with a popular restaurant. The retreat is located near the Nová Louka nature reserve, which protects the local peat bog. Another name used today is Šámalova louka in memory of the period when the First Republic Chancellor Přemysl Šámal used the cottage.
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The reservoir lies above the village of Josefuv Dul and is easily accessible from there. Many hikes into the Jizera Mountains start from here. The circular trail around the reservoir is well signposted and suitable for all types of sports. (There is no continuous paved road.)
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There was delicious homemade cake. The staff is very friendly.
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The dam is also known as the Czarna Nysa dam.
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Legendary kiosk at the crossroads of tourist trails at the foot of Mount Jizera, reconstructed in 2007, named after the former lumberjack's hut.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are there around Dam Josefův Důl?
There are over 70 mountain bike trails available around Dam Josefův Důl, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.
Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners around Dam Josefův Důl?
Yes, the area offers 8 easy mountain bike routes. An excellent option for beginners is the Blatný Pond – Šámalova Chata loop from Bedřichov, which is 12.7 miles (20.4 km) long and features gentle elevation changes.
What about challenging mountain bike routes for experienced riders?
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 15 difficult mountain bike trails. A notable option is the Josefův Důl Reservoir – Mountain Station Knajpa loop from Bedřichov, a demanding 36.0 miles (58.0 km) route with significant elevation gain.
Are there family-friendly mountain bike trails suitable for children?
While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't always explicit, the 8 easy routes are generally suitable for families with older children or those comfortable with longer rides. These trails often follow forest paths and gravel roads with less technical terrain.
When is the best time of year to go mountain biking around Dam Josefův Důl?
The best time for mountain biking around Dam Josefův Důl is typically from spring to autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally favorable, and the trails are clear of snow, offering optimal riding conditions through the Jizera Mountains' dense forests.
Can I find mountain bike trails with scenic viewpoints around Dam Josefův Důl?
Many trails in the region offer extensive views, particularly those that loop around the Josefův Důl Reservoir or ascend to higher points in the Jizera Mountains. The Mountain Station Knajpa – Josefův Důl Reservoir loop from Josefův Důl is known for its extensive views of the reservoir and surrounding forests.
Are there loop mountain bike trails around Dam Josefův Důl?
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Šámalova Chata – Josefův Důl Reservoir loop from Janov nad Nisou provides a balanced ride through woodland and along the reservoir's edge.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy the most about mountain biking in Dam Josefův Důl?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 200 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, the beautiful reservoir views, and the well-maintained network of forest paths and gravel roads that cater to various skill levels.
How long are the mountain bike trails in this area?
Trail lengths vary significantly. You can find shorter routes like the Šámalova Chata – Josefův Důl Reservoir loop from Janov nad Nisou at 9.9 miles (16.0 km), up to longer, more challenging rides such as the Josefův Důl Reservoir – Mountain Station Knajpa loop from Bedřichov which is 36.0 miles (58.0 km).
Is public transport available to reach the mountain bike trails?
Josefův Důl is accessible by public transport, including local buses and trains, which can bring you close to the starting points of many trails. It's advisable to check local timetables for specific connections to trailheads.
Are dogs allowed on the mountain bike trails around Dam Josefův Důl?
Generally, dogs are welcome on trails in the Jizera Mountains, provided they are kept under control, especially in nature protection areas or near wildlife. Always ensure to follow local regulations and clean up after your pet.
Are there any less crowded or 'hidden gem' mountain bike trails?
While popular routes like those around the reservoir attract many, exploring some of the slightly less central trails, such as the Mountain Station Knajpa – Blatný Pond loop from Bedřichov, can offer a more tranquil experience while still providing beautiful scenery and enjoyable riding.
Most popular routes around Dam Josefův Důl
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