Runs in the Karkonosze

Jelenia Góra, Szklarska Poręba and Karpacz are your bases in the highest range of the Sudetes. The symbol of the region is, of course, Śnieżka, with the distinctive discs of the meteorological observatory right on the summit. After battling gravity, it’s worth trying Karkonosze-style kwaśnica or filling dumplings, which give you a boost to keep going. This region was especially loved by the outstanding athlete Justyna Kowalczyk, who often built her form here before the most important starts. Historically, kings also visited these areas, seeking respite in the shadow of great mountains. It is precisely here that runs and races in the Karkonosze gain their unique, almost magical dimension thanks to the presence of the legendary Liczyrzepa 🧔. Every stone on the path reminds you that nature reigns supreme in these parts.

Karkonosze National Park protects unique vegetation and spectacular postglacial cirques that look menacing even in summer. Streams flowing here form roaring waterfalls, such as Kamieńczyk or Szklarki, where the cool spray brings relief to tired muscles 🌊. Higher up you’ll find dwarf mountain pine and vast peat bogs, reminiscent of faraway Scandinavian landscapes ❄️. The lower montane forests are dense spruce woods, where the paths are soft and invite a fast pace under the cover of branches 🌲. Granite rock formations, such as Pielgrzymy or Słonecznik, serve as natural landmarks during long backcountry outings 🗿. The air is crisp and scented with resin, making every breath taste like a reward for the effort you’ve put in 💨.

The most important test in this region is undoubtedly the Karkonosze Ultra Marathon, which runs along the ridge of the entire range. Fans of extreme thrills choose the Chojnik Karkonosze Running Festival, where routes around the medieval castle can really put you through your paces 🏰. Equally iconic is the Tomka Kowalskiego Karkonosze Winter Ultramarathon, a true lesson in humility in the face of winter elements ❄️. You also can’t miss the Summer Bieg Piastów, which offers great on-foot races along the extensive trails of Jakuszyce 🏁. Each of these events brings together people for whom sport is a lifestyle and a way to stay close to the wild 🥇. The finish-line atmosphere in Szklarska Poręba or Karpacz is always hot despite the chilly gusts of wind 🔥.

This place demands your full focus, but repays you with views you’ll never forget for the rest of your life. Your fitness will rise here faster than the pressure before a storm on the summit ⛈️. Pack your backpack and set off to conquer these trails, because the mountains don’t like waiting for stragglers 🎒. Don’t let nerves eat you up and show the Mountain Spirit that you’ve got lungs of steel and the heart for the fight ⛰️.

It’s time to level up and feel the energy flowing straight from the granite rocks! 🏆