The best walks and hikes in Czarny Las
4.4
(12)
16
hikers
8
hikes
Hiking in Czarny Las offers a variety of trails through forested landscapes. The region features routes suitable for easy walks and moderate hikes, with some trails passing by historical landmarks such as the remains of Melsztyn Castle. The terrain generally includes doubletrack paths and varied elevation gains, providing opportunities for outdoor activity in a natural setting.
Best hiking trails in Czarny Las
- The most popular hiking route is Melsztyn Castle loop from Melsztyn, a 1.2 miles (2.0 km) trail that takes 37 minutes to complete. This easy route features moderate elevation changes and passes by historical castle ruins.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Kamionka loop from Łysa Góra, an easy 4.0 miles (6.5 km) path. This trail offers a longer walk through the local landscape, taking approximately 1 hour 48 minutes.
- Local hikers also love the View of the Mountains loop from Łysa Góra, a 6.7 miles (10.8 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 2 hours 54 minutes.
- Hiking in Czarny Las is defined by dense woodlands, varied elevation, and historical points of interest, with a network of routes offering options for different ability levels.
- The routes in Czarny Las are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 19 hikers have used komoot to explore Czarny Las's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
4.0
(1)
5
hikers
2.07km
00:39
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(5)
4
hikers
6.53km
01:48
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
2
hikers
10.8km
02:54
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(4)
3
hikers
5.55km
01:33
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
7.66km
02:08
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Quite a steep climb, but the castle and views are worth the effort.
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There is parking on the back road which is then a fairly level walk to the tower. If you park by the restaurant on the main road it is a steep & muddy when wet climb up to the site.
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The castle is almost completely rebuilt, a beautiful view of the Dunajec and Zakliczyn
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Melsztyn Castle was restored in 2022 and again in 2023 when the roof on the residential tower was completed. The castle can now be visited again without restrictions. Entry is free and possible at any time because the entire area is under video surveillance.
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According to written records, the construction of the castle was started by the castellan of Kraków, Spycimire, in 1347. In the initial period, the castle was occupied by an eastern waporza. Steep and slender stols were an excellent protection for the castle. The castle consisted of a residential building with an oval light from a cistern and outbuildings. At the beginning of its existence, the castle functioned as a knightly residence of the powerful Melsztyński family. The stronghold was built in the 14th century. On the western edge of the hill, a high five-storey tower was erected on a rectangular plan. The third and fourth floors served as living quarters. The old and the new were themselves connected by a wall, enclosing the whole establishment with one defensive perimeter. From the west and south, a retaining wall was built to level the sweats in the courtyard and to strengthen the wall against sliding. At the bottom of the great, from the north-east side, there was a gatehouse through which the entrance to the castle led. Another extension of the defense system took place around 1461, which enabled the use of firearms. From the potnocnet side, an earth fortification was erected, which moved the first line of defense to a further distance. The main gate was also strengthened. In 1311, Melsztyn was sold and became the property of the Jordan family. In the middle of the 16th century, the oldest part of the castle was rebuilt in the Renaissance style into magnate residences. In the lower storey there were slit shooting ranges, while the upper storey had a representative and residential character. The castle survived almost unchanged until the end of the 18th century, despite the fact that its owners changed. From 1601 they were the Tarls, and from 1744 the Lanckoronskis. Resisting even the attacks of the Swedes in the 17th century The year 1770 turned out to be tragic for the Melsztyn castle, when it was first taken over by the Bar confederates and then conquered and burned by the Russian army. The first research work and securing the walls were undertaken in the years 1879-85 with the participation of architects and art historians. We owe it to Karol Lanckoronski and thanks to him we can still see the remains of the zambu today Local Action Group Dunajec-Biala
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on hiking trails in Czarny Las?
The trails in Czarny Las primarily feature forested landscapes with varied elevation. You'll find doubletrack paths, suitable for both easy walks and more moderate hikes. The region is characterized by dense woodlands and natural settings.
Are there any easy hiking routes suitable for beginners or families in Czarny Las?
Yes, Czarny Las offers several easy routes. For instance, the Melsztyn Castle loop from Melsztyn is an easy 2 km trail that takes about 37 minutes. Another option is the Kamionka loop from Łysa Góra, an easy 6.5 km path, perfect for a longer, relaxed walk.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Czarny Las?
Based on local activity, the most popular times for hiking in Czarny Las are April, August, and September. These months generally offer pleasant weather conditions for exploring the forested trails.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Czarny Las?
Yes, dogs are permitted on many trails in Czarny Las. For example, the doubletrack trail near Babice, which is representative of the area's easy routes, is dog-friendly.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Czarny Las?
Yes, many routes in Czarny Las are designed as loops. You can explore options like the Melsztyn Castle loop from Melsztyn, the Kamionka loop from Łysa Góra, or the View of the Mountains loop from Łysa Góra, all offering a return to your starting point.
What kind of landmarks or points of interest can I find along the trails?
Czarny Las features historical points of interest. A notable landmark is the remains of Melsztyn Castle, which can be explored on routes such as the Melsztyn Castle loop from Melsztyn. This castle was originally a defense system from around 1461.
How many hiking routes are available in Czarny Las?
There are 9 hiking routes available in Czarny Las, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, offering a variety of options for different preferences and fitness levels.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Czarny Las?
The routes in Czarny Las are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 10 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain and the natural setting of the dense woodlands.
Are there any longer or more challenging hikes in Czarny Las?
While most trails are easy to moderate, you can find longer routes. The View of the Mountains loop from Łysa Góra is a moderate 10.8 km trail that takes approximately 2 hours 54 minutes to complete, offering a more extended experience through varied terrain.
Is Czarny Las suitable for trail running or mountain biking?
Yes, some areas within Czarny Las, particularly the doubletrack trails, are suitable for activities like trail running and mountain biking, in addition to hiking. These paths often feature easy physical ratings and moderate elevation changes.
Are there any cafes or accommodation options near Czarny Las?
While specific cafes or accommodation directly adjacent to the trails are not detailed, the region's proximity to towns like Babice, Łysa Góra, and Milówka suggests that local amenities would be available within a short distance for visitors.
Most popular routes in Czarny Las
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