Suché skály — literally 'Dry Rocks' — is one of the most dramatic sandstone ridge formations in Bohemia, rising like a jagged stone wall above the Jizera river valley. Designated a National Natural Monument, this striking landmark of the Maloskalsko region will leave any visitor breathless, whether you are a hiker seeking panoramic views or a climber looking for a serious challenge.

The rocky ridge stretches for roughly 1000 metres, with the southern faces reaching 40 to 80 metres in height at their tallest point. The best way to appreciate the full scale and beauty of Suché skály is to climb to the nearby peak of Sokol — from Malá Skála, just follow the red trail towards Besedice. The landscape shifts with every season: lush summer greens give way to fiery autumn colours, and in winter the bare rock towers loom dramatically over the misty valley below.

How to get there

• Malá Skála (roadside parking) — red trail towards Besedice, ascent to Sokol peak for the best panoramic view of the rocks — moderate difficulty
• Road from Malá Skála to Koberovy — the rocks are directly accessible from the road, though there is no marked trail immediately beside the formation

Practical information

• Protected as a National Natural Monument since 2000 — nature protection rules apply
• No marked hiking trail runs directly along the rocks for safety reasons (risk of falling stones due to climbing activity) and to protect the site
• Steep wooden ladders between the rock towers are intended for experienced climbers only
• Climbing is permitted even on wet rock — the silica-cemented sandstone is exceptionally non-absorbent, making this one of the few areas in Bohemian Paradise where wet-weather climbing is allowed

The first recorded ascents here date back to 1893, when German climbers from the Liberec region conquered the highest summits of the ridge. Today, the unique tectonic mirrors and quartz veins running through the rock make Suché skály one of the most distinctive and sought-after climbing destinations in the entire Bohemian Paradise.