The longer upper lakes trail follows forest paths and panoramic viewpoints above the canyon before descending to boardwalks through the upper lakes cascade. Fewer crowds than Route A and offers sweeping aerial perspectives of the entire lake system.
The Plitvice Lakes Upper Route (Route B) offers a quieter and more immersive alternative to the popular Lower Lakes circuit, covering 8 kilometres through forested canyon paths, panoramic ridge viewpoints, and the upper lake cascade within Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Lika region. Entry is via Entrance 1 near the northern end of the park, where tickets and trail maps are available. The route accumulates 200 metres of elevation gain spread across several gradual climbs, making it suitable for moderately fit hikers who want more than a flat boardwalk experience.
From Entrance 1, the trail descends through old-growth beech and fir forest before reaching Prošćansko Lake, the uppermost of the 16 connected Plitvice Lakes. The forest canopy provides significant shade along the initial kilometres. The route then traces the upper lake chain — Ciginovac, Okrugljak, Batinovac, Malo Jezero, and Vir — where tufa barriers create a staircase of waterfalls dropping into increasingly large turquoise pools. Information panels along the way explain the active geological process by which the park's travertine dams are continuously growing.
After the upper cascade, a tram service included in the park ticket connects hikers to the Kozjak Lake boat landing, where the electric boat crosses to the main visitor hub. Hikers who prefer to skip the tram can continue on foot along a signed forest path, adding roughly 45 minutes to the total time. The trail surface transitions from compacted forest earth and gravel to wooden boardwalk as it approaches the lakes; some roots and uneven ground appear on the forested upper sections.
Shade is abundant throughout most of Route B due to the dense Dinaric forest cover. No mountain huts or water sources exist along the route; all facilities — café, toilets, and drinking water — are concentrated at the main entrance. The Upper Route sees noticeably fewer visitors than Route A, particularly on weekday mornings. Wildlife in the forest includes red deer, wild boar, and various raptors, with sightings more common in early morning.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Plitvice Lakes National Park, Lika region
- Best season
- May to June and September to October for optimal forest colour, manageable crowds, and full waterfall flow; July and August are busiest but waterfalls are at maximum volume.
Highlights
- panoramic canyon views
- Prošćansko Lake
- forest wildlife
- fewer crowds
Tips for visiting
- Start from Entrance 1 rather than Entrance 2 to begin with the less-crowded upper section.
- Wear sturdy trail shoes — forest sections have roots, rocks, and occasional mud after rain.
- The park tram runs on a fixed schedule; check the posted timetable at the tram stop before setting out.
- Carry at least 1.5 litres of water and a snack — no food or drink facilities exist along the trail itself.
- Binoculars are useful for spotting wildlife in the forest and waterfall detail from upper canyon viewpoints.
When to visit
Early morning departures from Entrance 1 (before 8:30 AM) significantly reduce crowd encounters; the upper lake section tends to be quietest on weekday mornings even during peak summer.
Accessibility
Route B is not suitable for wheelchair users or pushchairs due to its forest path sections with roots, uneven ground, and gradual climbs. The boardwalk sections near the upper lakes are generally flat but may still be narrow for wheelchairs. Visitors with mobility limitations are better served by Route A's flatter boardwalk circuit.
Frequently asked questions
Is Route B significantly harder than Route A?
Route B is longer (8 km vs 3.5 km) and involves 200 m of cumulative elevation gain through forest paths. The terrain is more varied and less crowded, making it a better option for fit hikers seeking a quieter experience. Lower Lakes sections remain accessible after Route B via the tram and boat connections.
Is the tram included in the park entry ticket?
Yes, both the electric tram and the electric boat crossing of Kozjak Lake are included in the standard park entry ticket at no additional charge.
Can Route B be walked in reverse?
The national park enforces one-way circulation on most boardwalk sections to manage foot traffic and protect the fragile travertine. Rangers patrol the routes and redirect hikers who attempt to walk against the marked flow.
Are there toilets along Route B?
Toilet facilities are located only at Entrance 1 and at the main visitor centre. There are no restrooms along the trail itself, so visitors should plan accordingly before setting out.