The Lower Lakes are the four lakes at the downstream end of the chain, set in a steep limestone canyon whose walls are draped with moss and small waterfalls. The path drops through the canyon on boardwalks and stone steps, passing cave mouths and curtains of water, until it reaches the foot of Veliki Slap, the tallest waterfall in the park, which drops roughly seventy-eight metres in a white ribbon from a cliff into the Korana. From the base you look up at the water, and a short, steep climb on the other side gives a view from above. This is the most photographed corner of Plitvice and the usual starting point for short routes. It is also the most dependable section in winter, because the park keeps the Lower Lakes walkable when the Upper Lakes are shut for ice or snow.
The route in practice
From Entrance 1 you walk down to a viewpoint over the Lower Lakes canyon, then take the stairs and boardwalks to the water's edge. The path follows the lakes through the narrowest part of the canyon, where the sound of falling water is constant, and reaches the bottom of Veliki Slap.
The loop back climbs a staircase beside the canyon wall to a viewpoint over the big waterfall, then returns along the rim. Shorter programmes cover only this section and take around two to three hours with photo stops; longer ones add a boat crossing of Lake Kozjak and part of the Upper Lakes.
Seasons and light
In spring the waterfalls run strongest and the mist reaches the boardwalk; in autumn the beech leaves turn orange and copper above the water; in winter, ice forms along the edges and on the cliff curtains, and the whole canyon is quieter. In deep cold the stairs and boardwalks can be slippery and sections may close at short notice, so ask at the ticket office what is open before you commit to a route. Bring shoes with a proper tread, a waterproof layer and, in winter, gloves, because the canyon traps cold air.
Practicalities
Entrance 1 has the car park and the ticket office closest to the big waterfall, and parking there is charged. The stairs around Veliki Slap make this section hard with a pram or a wheelchair. Food and toilets are at the visitor areas rather than along the path, so go before you drop into the canyon. The canyon is shaded and damp, so it is cooler than the car park, even in summer.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided boardwalk and staircase walk through a limestone canyon to the base of the park's tallest waterfall, with a viewpoint above it on the way back.
Best time
Early morning in any season, or a winter weekday when this is often the only part of the park fully open.
How long
Two to three hours for the Lower Lakes loop with photo stops.
Tips
Ask at the ticket office which paths are open, wear grippy shoes, and expect spray near the foot of the waterfall.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-time visitors with a half day who want the big waterfall.
- Families
- Good for children who like stairs and waterfalls, but not suited to prams.
- Couples
- A winter morning with ice on the cliff edges and almost nobody on the boardwalk.
- Pair with
- The boat and train, or Rastoke on the drive out.
- Time needed
- Allow at least two hours; three if you photograph.
Good questions
How tall is Veliki Slap?+
Veliki Slap is roughly seventy-eight metres tall and is the highest waterfall in Croatia. It drops from a cliff at the end of the Lower Lakes into the Korana river.
Which entrance is closest to the Lower Lakes?+
Entrance 1 is the closest, and it has the car park and ticket office for this section. A train and the boat can bring you back if you do not want to retrace your steps.
Is it open in winter?+
Usually yes. The Lower Lakes are the part the park keeps open longest, but ice can close individual paths, so check on the day.
Is the walk hard?+
It is a moderate walk with many steps, short climbs and slippery surfaces in wet weather. Fit visitors need around two to three hours, and the loop can be shortened with the train.
Can I walk behind or swim under the waterfall?+
No. Paths stay in front of the water and swimming is prohibited throughout the park.
