Wielka Sowa (1015 m a.s.l.) is the highest peak of the Sowie Mountains in the Central Sudetes — a rewarding destination that combines an easy hike with truly spectacular views. At the top, a historic concrete observation tower opens up a panorama stretching from Śnieżka to Śnieżnik and from the Trzebnica Hills to the Broumov Walls.

The massif lies within the Sowie Mountains Landscape Park and its slopes are threaded with a great variety of marked hiking trails, cycling routes and cross-country ski tracks. Summer brings pleasant forest walks and a refreshing breeze on the summit, while winter transforms the surroundings into a quiet cross-country skiing paradise. The atmosphere is friendly and unhurried, though as a Crown of Polish Mountains peak it draws a livelier crowd on weekends.

• From Sokola Pass — approx. 1 hr ascent, easy
• From Walimska Pass — approx. 1 hr ascent, easy
• From Sokolec via Sowa mountain hut — approx. 1 hr 20 min ascent, easy/moderate
• From Jugowska Pass via Kozie Siodło Pass — approx. 1 hr 30 min ascent, moderate
• From Walim — approx. 1 hr 55 min ascent, moderate
• From Kamionki — approx. 2 hr 15 min ascent, moderate
• From Pieszyce — approx. 3 hr 05 min ascent, demanding

• The observation tower on the summit was renovated and reopened in July 2023 — an entry fee may apply.
• The Sowa mountain hut is located on the route from Sokolec, near the summit.
• Wielka Sowa is part of the Crown of Polish Mountains and the Crown of Lower Silesian Mountains — bring your summit booklet.
• The ski lift and downhill runs have been closed since 2011.

The tower at the summit was inaugurated in May 1906 and was originally named after Otto von Bismarck, adorned inside with stained-glass windows depicting scenes from the chancellor's life — today it serves as the symbol of the nearby town of Pieszyce, proudly displayed on its coat of arms.