Quarry Great America: The Czech Grand Canyon

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Discover the 'Czech Grand Canyon': A breathtaking former limestone quarry with stunning views, hiking trails, and crystal-clear waters near Mořina.

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Quarry Great America

Quarry Great America, also known as Velká Amerika, is a stunning abandoned limestone quarry near Mořina, Czech Republic, often called the 'Czech Grand Canyon'. Mining in the late 19th and 20th centuries created this dramatic landscape, now a popular destination for hikers and photographers.

A brief summary to Quarry Great America

267 17, CZ

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Quarry Great America.

Wear sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the rocky terrain safely.
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike for several hours.
Stay on marked paths to ensure your safety and protect the natural environment.
Check the weather before planning your visit, as trails can become muddy after rain.

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Getting There

Walking

If you are already in Mořina, Quarry Great America is approximately 1 km from the town center. Head south on Hlavní street, following signs for Quarry Great America. The walk takes about 15 minutes. Be sure to wear good walking shoes as the path may be uneven.
Public Transport

From Prague, take a bus from Prague-Zličín to Mořina. From the bus stop in Mořina, it is a 1 km walk to the quarry following the yellow trail. Alternatively, bus no. 311 stops directly at the Velká Amerika quarry (stop Mořina, quarry branch), but this line has limited service. Check the local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. A single bus fare from Prague to Mořina typically costs around 30-50 CZK.
Car

From Prague, take the E50 and Route 116 to Mořina. Look for signs directing you to Quarry Great America. Parking is available near the entrance. Parking fees may apply.

Discover more about Quarry Great America

Velká Amerika, or Quarry Great America, is a captivating former limestone quarry located near the village of Mořina in the Central Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic. Often referred to as the 'Czech Grand Canyon', this site offers a dramatic landscape shaped by decades of mining activity. Quarrying began in the late 19th century, driven by the demand for limestone in industries such as sugar refining, iron production, and glass manufacturing. Mining intensified after World War I, carving a massive gash in the landscape. By 1963, when operations ceased, Velká Amerika had become an 800-meter long and 100-meter deep chasm. Rainwater gradually filled the void, creating a picturesque lake at the bottom. Today, Velká Amerika attracts visitors with its stunning rock formations, crystal-clear waters, and surrounding greenery. Hiking trails along the quarry's edge provide panoramic views, especially from the southwest end. Although direct access to the quarry floor is prohibited due to safety concerns, the viewpoints offer ample opportunities for photographers and nature enthusiasts. Nearby, smaller quarries like Malá Amerika (Little America) and Mexiko add to the area's allure, with Malá Amerika also featuring a clear lake. These quarries are interconnected by underground tunnels, some of which can be explored through guided tours arranged with the OS Hagen association or during the annual European Day of Protected Areas event. Velká Amerika has also served as a backdrop for numerous films and TV series, including 'Lemonade Joe', 'The Little Mermaid', 'Wheel of Time', and 'Carnival Row'.