Hiking in Triglav National Park

Triglav National Park

Stunning diversity. It’s how to best describe the Triglav National Park and its incredible potential as a hiking destination. From more even ground and easy treks, to longer expeditions off the beaten track and challenging mountain climbs – there is a trail out there for everyone. Triglav National Park hiking has never been easier to plan and experience than it is with our help. See below when to go, what to bring and some of the best routes for trekking Triglav National Park.

Hiking Seasons

If you are planning on hiking in Triglav National Park, the time of your visit has to be chosen accordingly.

Lowland tours and undemanding hikes are suitable throughout the year and most do not require a professional guide. Late spring, when nature is in bloom and the weather is not too hot, is perhaps the most appealing for relaxing strolls and undemanding hikes.

Then there’s early autumn with its attractive palette of colours, stable weather and pleasant temperatures. In winter, however, snow and with it the increased complexity of a hiking tour have to be taken into account. Less trodden down routes covered with snow require the right hiking techniques and a guide who knows where to go.

In summer, you can also find many lowland undemanding hikes, especially those that run through forests, gorges or alongside bodies of water, e.g. the Martuljek waterfalls, Mostnica Gorge or along the Soča River. During the high season, hiking can easily be combined with refreshing water activities such as canyoning, rafting and kayaking. Summertime is also more suitable for demanding hikes on higher terrain, where the snow has melted, the days are long, and the temperatures are bearable. The possibility of unpredictable afternoon storms should be considered, so an early start is definitely a must.

In autumn, the highlands are still very tempting, as serious snowfall has not yet arrived, but days are already shorter, which demands a bit more planning. Winter conditions, on the other hand, require a precise and well-thought-out itinerary that is best devised with the help of an expert guide.

Preparing for Triglav National Park hike

What to pack also depends on the chosen tour. Striking the right balance when packing is an art in itself. If you forget to take something crucial to the mountains, you can get into a spot of trouble quickly, but if your load is too big, it can prove quite exhausting and consequently the hike becomes rather unpleasant. An experienced guide is always the best person to turn to for advice on which equipment to bring.

As a general rule, you should always pack some warmer layers of clothing and sun protection. The highlands, even mid-summer, require long trousers, a hat, a wind stopper jacket, and high-quality hiking shoes/boots with excellent grip.

There are many areas within the Triglav National Park where phone reception is questionable, which means GPS might not work. Maps for navigation should therefore be stored in advance and phone battery saved in case of mishaps. The emergency number to call in Slovenia is 112.

On steeper, more demanding and exposed trails, a helmet is recommended, as the limestone rock is crumbly. Debris can easily be triggered by the hiker in front of you or a passing mountain goat.

Always make sure to bring enough water supplies. Although drinkable, water sources are scarce in the high mountain karst. Additional high-calorie food should also be packed in the event you run low on energy or if the hike proves more demanding than expected.

In winter as well as late spring, ice axes and crampons are obligatory pieces of equipment in the higher parts of the mountains. Snowy patches can even remain in summer. Slipping is the most common type of accident in the mountains. It mostly occurs due to inadequate equipment, exhaustion and/or not knowing the terrain.

We therefore stress yet again that demanding climbs and even some longer intermediate hikes are best ventured on with a professional local guide.

Popular hiking trails in Triglav National Park

The extremely broad network of trails, including those that lead up Mt. Triglav, is simply begging to be explored and reveal its milliards of natural treasures. Here are some of the highlights.

The Soča Trail

This 25-km-long legendary trail follows the emerald Soča River from its source towards Bovec. It is the first designated trail in Triglav National Park. The trail connects the ancient Trenta paths and main picturesque sections of the valley, including cultural monuments and footbridges. 

Hut to Hut Hiking in Julian Alps

A Slovene tradition that cannot go unmentioned is hiking through the Triglav National Park and staying at mountain huts, located in surreal surroundings. Hut-to-hut tours take you deep into the picturesque wilderness and introduce you to the most authentic elements of Alpine life.

Mostnica Gorge

This scenic trail runs above the village of Stara Fužina and follows the 2-km gorge carved by the Mostnica River. It affords a relaxing and undemanding hike amid narrow rocky sections, past the river’s mesmerising 20-m-deep pools, and the mysterious rock formation in the shape of an elephant’s head.

Viševnik

Another excellent excursion is a hike up Mount Viševnik. It’s the highest (2,050 m) easily accessible mountain in Triglav National Park that promises fantastic views of the neighbouring peaks (especially Triglav), the Pokljuka Plateau and the valleys beyond. This hiking trail is perfect for families, beginners and those who would like to enjoy the scenery without breaking too much of a sweat.

The Seven Lakes Hike

Spending the day trekking across high-altitude pastures, stopping off at sublime glacial lakes, staying at traditional mountain huts, and enjoying all the natural perks of the Julian Alps – this and much more is experienced in famous Triglav’s Seven Lakes Valley. It’s an unforgettable journey that should definitely be ventured on if you have a few days to spare and reasonable physical stamina.

Juliana Hiking Trail

This extensive trail takes you through the heart of the natural word, past historical towns and rustic Alpine villages. It allows you to discover the Julian Alps in all their glory and learn a fantastic amount about life in the Triglav National Park. Just opened, this 267km long trail takes you around the Julian Alps. 

Keep the park as beautiful as it is

It is our responsibility to take care of this unique and highly important natural environment. Read more about does and don'ts and about the Triglav National Park in general here.

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