Preparing for your trip to the statue

Before you head into the woods, you need the right gear. The paths in Karlovy Vary are well-maintained but can be steep. Proper preparation ensures you enjoy the scenery without any physical stress. Check the weather forecast on the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism site before starting. In 2026, many trails have updated signage to help visitors.

• Footwear: Wear sturdy sneakers or hiking boots with good grip.
• Water: Bring at least 500ml of water, especially in summer.
• Map: Download an offline map of the forest trails.
• Cash: Keep some Czech Koruna for the funicular or nearby cafes.
• Camera: You will want to capture the iconic statue and the skyline.

The walk is short but involves some stairs and uneven ground. If you plan to see other best things to do in Karlovy Vary, start early. This avoids the midday crowds that gather near the statue. Always tell someone your planned route before entering the forest park area.

Choosing the best route to Deer Leap

There are two main ways to reach the lookout point. Your choice depends on your fitness level and available time. Most visitors prefer the funicular for ease, while locals often enjoy the forest trails. If you are short on time, do not attempt the full uphill hike. If you enjoy nature, the wooded paths are very peaceful.

Decision Guide:

• If you have limited mobility: Take the Diana Funicular to the "Jelení skok" station.
• If you want a workout: Follow the yellow or blue trails from the Grandhotel Pupp.
• If it is raining: Stick to the funicular as forest paths can become slippery.
• If you are on a budget: The hike is free, while the funicular requires a ticket.

The funicular is managed by the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary. Tickets are affordable and can be bought at the base station. The ride itself offers a unique perspective of the city's architecture. Hiking takes about 30 to 45 minutes from the valley floor.

How to find the Kamzik chamois statue step-by-step

Following a clear path is the easiest way to reach your goal. The statue is located at a spot called Jelení skok, which means Deer Leap. It is one of the most photographed places in the region. Follow these steps to ensure you do not miss the hidden turn-offs.

1. Step 1: Reach the starting point. Go to the Diana Funicular base station near the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 5 mins. Cost: Free to start. Mistake: Confusing this with the Imperial Funicular.
2. Step 2: Ascend the hill. Either ride the funicular to the middle stop or follow the yellow trail markers uphill. Time: 5-30 mins. Cost: ~100 CZK for funicular. Mistake: Missing the middle station exit.
3. Step 3: Follow the signs for Jelení skok. Look for the wooden signposts pointing toward the chamois statue. Time: 5 mins. Cost: Free. Mistake: Taking the path toward the Diana Tower instead.
4. Step 4: Navigate the rocky path. Walk past the Jelení skok restaurant toward the metal railing. Time: 2 mins. Cost: Free. Mistake: Wearing flip-flops on the rocky sections.
5. Step 5: Locate the statue. The Kamzik statue is on the large rock formation to your left. Time: 1 min. Cost: Free. Mistake: Forgetting to look up at the rock peak.

Once you arrive, take a moment to enjoy the best photography spots at Deer Leap lookout. The statue looks best when the sun is behind you in the afternoon. Be careful near the edges as the drop-off is quite steep. The site is open year-round for all visitors.

Troubleshooting common problems at Deer Leap

Even simple trips can face unexpected hurdles. Knowing how to handle these issues will save your day. The forest park is large, and it is easy to take a wrong turn. Always look for the color-coded trail markers on the trees. These are the standard for navigation in the Visit Czechia network.

• Lost the trail: Head downhill to return to the town or find a main road.
• Funicular is closed: Check for maintenance notices at the bottom station before walking.
• Crowded lookout: Wait five minutes; most tour groups move quickly.
• Poor visibility: If it is foggy, the statue might be hard to see from a distance.
• Phone battery low: Carry a power bank as GPS drains battery in the woods.
• Closed restaurant: The cafe near the statue has seasonal hours; bring snacks.
• Slippery rocks: Avoid climbing on the rocks during or after rainfall.

If you get tired, there are many benches along the way. You can also combine this trip with the Karlovy Vary colonnades walking route afterward. This allows you to transition from nature back to the city's thermal springs. Most issues are easily solved by staying on the marked paths.