Montenegro’s Durmitor National Park is one of the country’s most breathtaking natural wonders, offering a diverse range of hiking trails that take visitors through glacial lakes, towering peaks, deep canyons, and untouched forests. Located near Žabljak, the park provides well-marked routes for casual hikers, experienced climbers, and nature enthusiasts. The Tourism Organization of Žabljak has ensured that these trails are clearly signposted and well-maintained, making them accessible for all who seek adventure in the wild.
Among the most beautiful trails in the park is the Four Lakes Trail, a circular route connecting four glacial lakes located below the peaks of Stožina, Sedlena Greda, and Ranisava. The trail is fully visible and passable, with no dangerous zones, making it ideal for those seeking a peaceful nature walk away from urban life. Along the route, there are several fresh water springs, providing natural drinking water for hikers. A local legend connected to Stožina Peak tells the story of two young shepherds who attempted to climb the peak as a symbol of their love, only for the boy to tragically fall. The trail is best explored from May to October, while in winter, it can be accessed using snowshoes.
Another popular trail is the Red Cliff Trail, which passes through forests, pastures, macadam roads, and mountain paths. At the top of Red Cliff (Crvena Greda), a breathtaking viewpoint offers a panoramic scene of the surrounding landscape. This area is home to the rare Jablan flower (Trollius europaeus), an endangered species, as well as a relict species of mountain lizard (Ichthyosaura alpestris) found in Jablan Lake. The trail is fully visible and safe, with seasonal drinking water sources near Jablan Lake and Zminje Lake, and is best visited between May and October.
Another breathtaking trail is the one leading to Curevac, which provides spectacular sights of the Tara River Canyon, the deepest river canyon in Europe. The trail is circular, with fully visible and well-marked paths and no dangerous zones. Along the way, hikers can admire the Tepca and Obzir villages, as well as three spectacular viewpoints overlooking the canyon. The largest and most famous viewpoint is Curevac, which provides one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in Durmitor. The trail has one drinking water source, and hikers can find food and accommodation in the village of Nadgora, where local households offer traditional meals and overnight stays.
The Circular Trail Around Međed is one of the most diverse and visually stunning hikes in Durmitor. The route takes hikers around the Veliki and Mali Međed massifs, passing through glacial remnants at Debeli Namet, traditional shepherd settlements (katuns), and the scenic mountain pass Velika Previja. This trail is also an excellent location to see chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra), a species commonly spotted in Durmitor’s rocky terrain. There are two seasonal drinking water sources along the trail, one near Black Lake (Crno Jezero) and the other at Lokvica katun. Overnight stays are possible in the alpinist shelters at Lokvice and Debeli Namet.
A trail known for its historical and cultural significance is Danilo’s Trail, which passes through Todor’s Valley (Todorov Do), an area associated with the legend of Todor, the Durmitor fairies, and his beloved Ružica. The trail is fully visible and safe, except for one exposed section along a 30-meter rock passage. From the highest points of this route, hikers can enjoy panoramic views of Volujak, Maglić, Bioč, Golija, the Moračke mountains, Ljubišnja, and the Durmitor massif. A drinking water spring is available at the start of the hike, and the best time to visit is between May and October.
For those seeking a more challenging ascent, Prutaš (2,393m) is considered one of Durmitor’s most stunning summits. The hike begins at 1,707 meters above sea level and climbs 686 meters over a distance of 4 kilometers. The ascent takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes and requires climbing with hands in two short exposed sections. There are no drinking water sources along the trail, but nearby sources include Studenac Spring near Sedlo Pass and Šarban Spring in Dobra Dol. From Skrčko Ždrijelo Pass (2,114m), hikers can enjoy spectacular views of Bobotov Kuk (2,522m), Bezimeni Vrh (2,487m), and Planinica (2,330m). The best time to hike Prutaš is in summer, though stormy and rainy days should be avoided.
The Ice Cave Trail offers a truly unique hiking experience, leading to a hidden glacial cave filled with natural ice formations, stalactites, and stalagmites. The trail starts at Black Lake (Crno Jezero), passing through Lokvica katun and continuing to Ice Cave (Ledena Pećina) before returning to Black Lake. Inside the cave, visitors will find breathtaking ice sculptures and frozen formations, which should be preserved by avoiding unnecessary contact. The trail is considered moderate, but extra caution is required when descending into the cave, where a safety cable has been installed. The best period to explore this route is from June to October.
For hikers looking for the ultimate challenge, Bobotov Kuk (2,522m) is Durmitor’s highest peak and a must-visit for experienced climbers. The ascent starts at 1,908 meters at Sedlo Pass, climbing 835 meters over 6.8 kilometers. The hike takes approximately 4 hours, and although the trail is marked, certain sections require careful navigation and use of hands. There are no drinking water sources along the trail, but hikers can find a spring at Studenac near the Sedlo road. The best time to climb Bobotov Kuk is during summer, while avoiding rainy and stormy days. The summit offers an extraordinary panoramic view of Durmitor’s highest peaks, making it one of the most rewarding hikes in the park.
Durmitor’s hiking trails are well-marked and maintained, ensuring a safe and immersive experience. However, some high-altitude routes require technical skills, proper hiking gear, and a good level of physical fitness. The best hiking season is from May to October, and for those unfamiliar with the terrain, guided tours are available. Many trails have seasonal drinking water sources, though it is always recommended to carry extra water. Overnight accommodations are available in rural households, mountain lodges, and alpine shelters, with select locations such as the alpinist shelter in Lokvice and Debeli Namet offering simple accommodations for hikers.
The Žabljak region, the gateway to Durmitor National Park, is easily accessible from major international airports, including Podgorica (130 km), Tivat (170 km), and Dubrovnik (180 km). A variety of accommodations are available, including eco-lodges, traditional mountain huts, and family-run guesthouses.
For more details about the best hiking trails in Opština Žabljak visit https://tozabljak.com or Wikiloc.
Durmitor National Park offers a dream destination for hikers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. Whether scaling rugged peaks, exploring hidden caves, or enjoying the tranquility of glacial lakes, visitors are guaranteed an unforgettable journey through Montenegro’s wild landscapes.
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