Zubačka

The Tanvald to Kořenov to Harrachov line is the steepest railway in the Czech Republic. It was built with a rack, a toothed strip laid between the running rails, so a locomotive's cog wheel could grip the climb. Regular trains do not need that any more. Those daily services are run by Czech Railways (ČD), not by Zubačka.

What Zubačka actually offers

Zubačka is the nostalgic side of this railway, not the commute. Genuine rack-locomotive rides, historic railcars, steam trains between Kořenov and Harrachov, and a museum at Kořenov station: that is what carries the name. Zubačka provoz s.r.o., based in Kořenov, runs it with the Tanvald railway company. There is no daily timetable here, so check the calendar for special-train dates before building a trip around one.

Getting there

Regular ČD trains run Liberec to Tanvald, Harrachov and on to Szklarska Poręba in Poland, stopping at Kořenov station. IDOL bus routes 747 and 541111 also stop at Kořenov, žel. st.

Museum and depot

The railway museum at Kořenov covers the Zubačka line's history and the nearby route to Szklarska Poręba: a period stationmaster's office, rack gearing, and vehicle models among the exhibits. A visit takes about 30 minutes. Hours shift with the season, open daily in June to August, and on weekends, holidays or Friday to Sunday through the shoulder months of May, September and October, plus a short window in December.

Museum admission is CZK 60 full price, CZK 40 reduced for children aged 6 to 12 and for seniors. Add the Kořenov locomotive depot (výtopna) for a combined ticket at CZK 120 full price, CZK 70 reduced. Groups of 20 or more paying visitors can arrange an opening outside the usual hours.