A Hiker’s Guide to Paklenica National Park

Tucked into the southern slopes of the Velebit mountain range, Paklenica National Park is a hiker’s paradise of dramatic limestone gorges, pine forests and high karst peaks. Located less than an hour from Zadar, it offers a rugged contrast to the Adriatic coast just below.

Getting There and When to Go

The park has two main entrances, both near the village of Starigrad. The coastal road and the A1 motorway make it easy to reach by car, and regular buses connect Zadar with Starigrad throughout the year.

Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons for walking, with mild temperatures and clear skies. Summer can be very hot in the canyons, so early morning starts are essential. Winter brings snow to the higher trails, which are then only suitable for experienced mountaineers.

The Main Trails

Most visitors begin with the walk up Velika Paklenica canyon. The path follows a dry riverbed between towering walls, passing old stone watermills and occasional climbers on the cliffs above. The first section is easy and suitable for families.

From the canyon, a steeper trail climbs to the mountain hut at around 480 metres. This is a popular rest stop and the starting point for several longer routes. A short but demanding side trail leads to Anića kuk, a rocky summit with sweeping views over the canyon and the sea beyond.

For a full day out, the trail to Manita peć cave is well marked but requires a good level of fitness. The cave itself is open to visitors as part of guided walks, and its stalactites and stalagmites are a highlight. Beyond the cave, experienced hikers can continue to the high peaks of the Velebit, where the terrain opens into vast limestone plateaus.

Practical Tips

• Wear sturdy walking shoes or boots; the terrain is rocky and uneven.
• Carry at least two litres of water per person in summer; there is no drinking water on most trails.
• Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change quickly in the mountains.
• Take a map or download an offline map app, as mobile coverage is patchy in the canyons.

Beyond Hiking

Paklenica is also one of Croatia’s top destinations for rock climbing, with hundreds of bolted routes on the canyon walls. The park’s forests are home to a rich variety of wildlife, including eagles, chamois and the rare griffon vulture. After a long day on the trail, the nearby town of Starigrad offers a quiet place to rest, with a pebble beach and views back towards the mountains.

Whether you have a couple of hours or a full day, Paklenica rewards every step with wild, unspoiled scenery. It is a place to slow down, breathe deeply and remember why Croatia’s mountains deserve as much attention as its islands.