Plitvice Lakes National Park is famous not only for its spectacular waterfalls and pristine lakes but also for its diverse hiking trails, offering visitors the chance to fully experience this natural wonder. The park features eight main trails, each providing its own unique adventure. Here’s an overview to help you pick the perfect trail.
General Information About the Plitvice Lakes Trails
Before we dive into specifics, here are a few basics. Plitvice Lakes National Park offers trails of varying lengths and difficulty, making it easy for every visitor to find their ideal hike. Trails are clearly marked by letters, and each one features distinct attractions and views.
The hiking trails at Plitvice Lakes National Park start at either Entrance 1 or Entrance 2. Trails beginning at Entrance 1 are marked in green, while trails starting from Entrance 2 are marked in orange. Read this article to find out which entrance to choose.
Plitvice Lakes Trails
Here’s a detailed list of the official trails in Plitvice Lakes National Park:
Trail A
- Length: 3.5 km
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Start: Entrance 1
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: Lake Kozjak, Great Waterfall
Trail A is ideal for visitors seeking an easy, picturesque walk. Following the shore of Lake Kozjak, this trail offers amazing views of the lake and the famous Great Waterfall.
Trail B
- Length: 4 km
- Duration: 3-4 hours
- Start: Entrance 1
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Lower Lakes, Sastavci Waterfall
Trail B takes you around the park’s Lower Lakes, showcasing several charming smaller waterfalls. It’s perfect if you want to see more without a lengthy hike.
Trail C
- Length: 8 km
- Duration: 4-6 hours
- Start: Entrance 1
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Great Waterfall, Lake Kozjak boat ride
Trail C is among the most popular routes. The Great Waterfall and an unforgettable boat ride on Lake Kozjak make this trail a visitor favorite.
Trail E
- Length: 5.1 km
- Duration: 3 hours
- Start: Entrance 2
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Upper Lakes, Lake Prošćansko
Trail E circles the scenic Upper Lakes, providing stunning views of Lake Prošćansko. This moderate hike is a great choice for nature enthusiasts.
Trail F
- Length: 4.6 km
- Duration: 3-4 hours
- Start: Entrance 2
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: Lower Lakes, Veliki Prštavac Waterfall
Trail F offers an easy stroll along the Lower Lakes, passing by the impressive Veliki Prštavac Waterfall. It’s especially suitable for families.
Trail H
- Length: 8.9 km
- Duration: 4-6 hours
- Start: Entrance 2
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Highlights: Upper and Lower Lakes, numerous waterfalls
Trail H is one of the park’s most challenging yet rewarding hikes, covering both the Upper and Lower Lakes. Recommended for experienced hikers.
Trail K
- Length: 18+ km
- Duration: 6-7 hours
- Start: Accessible from both Entrance 1 and Entrance 2
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Highlights: Entire park loop, all major attractions
Trail K is the ultimate Plitvice Lakes hiking experience, encompassing all the park’s main attractions. It’s an essential adventure for experienced hikers.
Navigating Trails in the Park
The trails at Plitvice Lakes are clearly marked, making them easy to navigate from start to finish. Just follow the signs with your chosen trail’s letter, and you’ll never get lost.
Some trails include bus or boat rides, which are covered by the park entrance fee.