The adit is part of a larger 16th-century underground water management system that remains functional for drainage today.
The name 'Black Trout' refers to the fish species that were historically found in the tunnel's clean mine waters.
The entire transit is conducted via flat-bottomed boats propelled by guides using manual techniques along the tunnel walls.
The adit reaches depths of up to 30 meters below the surface of the surrounding forest.
The structure is connected to the wider Tarnowskie Góry Lead-Silver-Zinc Mine network, which spans over 150 kilometers of tunnels.
The geological structure features Triassic-period dolomite rock, which is visible along the tunnel walls.
Sztolnia Czarnego Pstrąga (Black Trout Adit) is an underground water transport tunnel forming part of the historical Silver Mine complex in Tarnowskie Góry, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors traverse a 600-meter section of the adit by boat, navigating between the Ewa and Sylwester shafts. The adit was constructed in the late 18th century to drain water from deep silver and lead ore mines into the Dramy River. The underground route maintains a constant temperature of approximately 10 degrees Celsius year-round. It stands as a significant relic of industrial mining engineering in Upper Silesia. The site remains a protected monument preserved for tourism and historical education.
The view from the boat as it exits or enters the dimly lit, moss-covered entrance of the tunnel.
Bring a warm jacket or sweater regardless of the weather outside due to the consistent low temperature.
Wear comfortable, non-slip footwear suitable for wet and potentially muddy conditions near the boarding areas.
Plan for extra time to walk the forest trails connecting the two shafts above ground.
Do not arrive without a confirmed reservation, as boat capacity is limited and tours fill up quickly.
Open year-round, though boat tour frequency may vary significantly depending on the season and group booking demand.
Maintain silence during the boat ride to hear the guide's explanation and respect the underground environment; do not touch the walls to protect the ecosystem.