Plitvice Lakes National Park is a unique natural wonder with its 16 terraced crystal clear lakes and 90 waterfalls. In the summer months the park and its trails can get busy, but with the tips in this article you can avoid most of the crowds.
## **General Information for Visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park**
Plitvice Lakes National Park remains open and accessible throughout the entire year, offering a unique experience during each season. However, many seasoned travelers and park enthusiasts recommend visiting during the shoulder seasons of **spring** and **fall**. These periods provide a sweet spot, avoiding the peak crowds and offering pleasant weather conditions.
The **spring** months are particularly enchanting as the park comes alive with the vibrant energy of melting snow. This surge of water results in higher water levels, creating more dramatic waterfalls and a generally more dynamic landscape throughout Plitvice Lakes National Park.
The summer season, encompassing July and August, presents a different set of circumstances. While the weather is undoubtedly hot and sunny, this is also the most crowded time of year to visit. Prepare for longer queues, busier trails, and a more bustling atmosphere. Furthermore, the water levels tend to be lower during the summer months compared to spring, potentially impacting the visual grandeur of certain waterfalls.
As the summer heat fades, autumn arrives, painting the park in a breathtaking palette of colors. The changing leaves create a truly spectacular backdrop for your exploration of Plitvice Lakes National Park. The weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it an ideal time for hiking and enjoying the scenery.
Winter transforms Plitvice Lakes National Park into a serene, snow-covered wonderland. This is the quietest time of year to visit, offering a sense of solitude and tranquility. The lakes often freeze over, adding to the magical atmosphere. However, be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially icy trails.
**Park Hours:** It is always a good idea to double check the most up-to-date park hours before planning your visit to Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Generally, the park hours are as follows:
* 9am – 4pm in the Winter
* 8am – 6pm in the Spring & Fall
* 7am – 8pm in the Summer
Daily ticket prices for Plitvice Lakes National Park vary depending on the season. The ticket price includes both a boat ride on one of the lakes, and the tourist train, which offers a convenient way to return to the Park entrance.
The ticket prices are structured as follows:
* 55 kn / $8 USD (Jan 1 – Mar 31 & Nov 1 – Dec 31)
* 110 kn / $17 USD (Apr 1 – June 30 & Sep 1 – Oct 31)
* 180 kn / $27 USD (July 1 – Aug 31)
Parking at Plitvice Lakes National Park is charged on an hourly basis, costing 7kn/hour (approximately $1). It’s a good idea to have small change available for the parking fee.
For visitors arriving by car, there are two entrances to Plitvice Lakes National Park. From each entrance, you’ll find four different marked hiking routes. Further information about these options is provided below, giving you a better understanding of the trails and their specific characteristics.
If you are planning a day trip from Zagreb or Zadar, allow approximately 2 hours by car or 2.5 hours by bus to reach Plitvice Lakes National Park. This is often considered the most efficient way to access the park for visitors with limited time.
## **Hiking Trails in Plitvice Lakes National Park**
For many, the best way to truly appreciate the beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park is by exploring the numerous hiking trails that wind through its stunning landscapes. Hiking allows you to immerse yourself in the scenery and venture beyond the more popular, crowded areas. The park offers a variety of trails, with a total of 8 different hiking routes. The shortest trail takes around 3 hours to complete, while the longest can take up to 8 hours.
Regardless of the trail you choose, it’s essential to bring an adequate supply of water to stay hydrated throughout your hike. Comfortable and supportive hiking shoes are also a must, ensuring a pleasant and safe experience on the sometimes uneven terrain.
Here’s a breakdown of the different trail options:
* Trail A (2-3 hours – 3.5km – easy): This trail focuses on the lower lakes and starts and ends at Entrance 1. Highlights include a walk to the majestic Great Waterfall and across the Kozjaka Bridge.
* Trail B (3-4 hours – 4km – easy): Similar to Trail A, this trail also explores the lower lakes but includes a scenic boat ride on Lake Kozjaka.
* Trail C (4-6 hours – 8km – moderate): This is an extended version of Trail B, incorporating a visit to the captivating upper lakes in addition to the lower lakes and the boat ride.
* Trail K (6-8 hours – 18.3km – difficult): For experienced hikers, Trail K offers a comprehensive exploration of the entire park, showcasing its diverse landscapes and hidden gems.
### Trail options from Entrance 2 (south gate-Upper Lakes)
* Trail E (2-3 hours – 5.2 km – easy): This trail focuses on the upper lakes, commencing with a short boat ride across Kozjak Lake and leading to Proscansko Jezero.
* Trail F (3-4 hours – 4.6km – easy): Explore the upper lakes with a boat ride across Lake Kozjaka, then venture to the lower lakes, taking a convenient shuttle back to the starting point.
* Trail H (4-6 hours – 8.9km – moderate): Begin with a bus ride to the starting point, hike through the upper lakes, sail across Lake Kozjaka, and then explore the lower lakes, returning via shuttle bus.
* Trail K-2 (6-8 hours – 18.3km -difficult): Similar to Trail K-1, this trail offers a comprehensive exploration of the entire park.
For a moderate hiking experience, Trail C from Entrance No 1 is a popular choice. This trail allows you to visit both the upper and lower lakes. It begins with an uphill climb through the park, culminating at the top of the upper lakes, where you can enjoy a well-deserved packed lunch at the provided picnic tables.
## **Essential Tips for Visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park**
Here are some expert tips to help you make the most of your visit to Plitvice Lakes National Park:
### #1 – Beat the Crowds
To avoid the large crowds that often gather at Plitvice Lakes National Park, arrive early, ideally before 9am. Most tour groups tend to arrive around midday, so planning your visit accordingly can make a significant difference. Consider leaving by noon to avoid traffic congestion. Alternatively, you can arrive in the afternoon, after most tour groups have completed their guided walks.
### #2 – Pack a Picnic
Instead of relying on the food options inside the park, which can be overpriced and of varying quality, plan ahead and pack a delicious picnic lunch. Find a scenic spot overlooking the lakes and enjoy a memorable meal amidst the natural beauty. Alternatively, plan to eat your meals outside the park.
### #3 – Consider an Overnight Stay
To maximize your time and enjoy early access to the lakes, consider staying in one of the nearby villages the day before your visit. This will allow you to be at the park entrance right when it opens, giving you a head start on the crowds.
For a more authentic and budget-friendly experience, consider staying in a Sobe (similar to a B&B) instead of a traditional hotel.
Here are a few recommended accommodations:
* Villa Sumrak: Located a 15-minute walk from the Great Waterfalls and lakes, this villa offers a friendly host family and delicious home-cooked meals upon request. With only 3 rooms, it’s best to book early.
* Villa Verde Guest House: Situated just minutes from park entrance 2, this newly refurbished guest house offers friendly owners and 6 comfortable rooms.
* Villa Lika: A larger option with 16 rooms, Villa Lika is a 15-minute walk from the park and offers great hosts.
* Bungalows Korana (Campsite): Located a short drive from the park, this campsite offers wooden bungalows with shared bathrooms and a restaurant on site. It features 47 rooms.
### #4 – Avoid Following Tour Groups
Before arriving at Plitvice Lakes National Park, take some time to research the various trail routes and choose one that suits your interests and fitness level. With well-marked routes, there’s no need to join a guided tour. You can start hiking right away and explore the park at your own pace.
### #5 – Hike Trails in Reverse
If you encounter a large tour group at the start of your chosen trail, consider walking the trail in reverse. While this will mean walking uphill for a significant portion of the time, you’ll likely encounter fewer people on the trail, allowing for a more peaceful and enjoyable experience.
### #6 – Explore the Upper Lakes
During peak season, the upper lakes tend to be less crowded than the lower lakes. Consider focusing your exploration on this area to avoid the biggest crowds and enjoy a more tranquil atmosphere.
### #7 – Discover the Park’s Surroundings
If you plan to spend a few days in the area surrounding Plitvice Lakes National Park, you’ll find an abundance of outdoor activities to enjoy.
These include:
* Cycling around the Plitvice Park area
* Whitewater rafting along the Una or Korana Rivers
* Spending a day at the Mrežnica River, enjoying a picnic and swimming
* River kayaking
* Hiking
### #8 – Rent a Rowboat
Although swimming is not permitted in the lakes due to their status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can rent a small rowboat for 50kn/hour and enjoy the scenery from a different perspective.
### #9 – Locate the Restrooms
Be sure to check the park map and familiarize yourself with the location of restrooms, as they are not very frequent along the hiking trails.
### #10 – Traveling with Small Children
If you are traveling with small children, be prepared to carry them, as strollers are not practical on the wooden boardwalks that make up many of the trails.
## Planning a trip to Croatia?
Here are a few itineraries that include Plitvice Lakes National Park to get you started.
* Magical Istria: Zagreb, Rovinj, Cape Kamenjak, & Plitvice – 9 Days
* Croatia Multisport: Zagreb, Plitvice, Paklenica, Hvar, & Dubrovnik – 12 Days
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