Lake Krn Slovenia
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Lake Krn Slovenia

4.9
·209 reviews·, Slovenia

Slovenia's largest glacial lake, a stunning emerald jewel nestled between quiet mountains, accessible via a rewarding hike.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late Spring to Early Autumn

Ideal hiking conditions

CrowdMedium
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Lake Krn Slovenia

Lake Krn Slovenia

Best Time

Late Spring to Early Autumn

Ideal hiking conditions

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Slovenia's largest glacial lake, a stunning emerald jewel nestled between quiet mountains, accessible via a rewarding hike.

4.9
(209 reviews)

"Sabrina says it’s worth the effort to get here! Beautiful lake and surroundings."

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots

Crucial for the steep, rocky sections. Good grip prevents slips on loose terrain.

💧 Pack Plenty of Water

Hydration is key for the 2.5-hour uphill climb. Refill stations are scarce.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lake Krn's Glacial Beauty

Lake Krn's Glacial Beauty

High-altitude glacial lake

Slovenia's largest glacial lake, a stunning emerald jewel nestled between quiet mountains. Worth the effort!

The Hike to the Lake

The Hike to the Lake

Trail from Lepena Valley

A rewarding trek through forests, with the final approach offering breathtaking views. The journey is part of the experience.

Mountain Hut Refreshments

Mountain Hut Refreshments

Near Lake Krn

A welcome stop for drinks and food just minutes before reaching the lake, offering a chance to rest and refuel.

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Planning Your Visit

Prepare for the Ascent

Lake Krn is a challenging hike, typically 2.5 hours uphill from the Lepena valley. Proper footwear and ample water are essential. Check the weather forecast meticulously before you go, as conditions can change rapidly at this altitude. Reddit

Timing is Key

While beautiful year-round, consider visiting in late spring or early autumn for optimal hiking conditions. September offers pleasant weather, but be prepared for potential rain. Reddit

Best Times

When
Late Spring to Early Autumn
Why
Ideal hiking conditions
Crowd
Medium
When
September Mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Lake Krn hike, Slovenia Find all the details in my latest vlog on my YT @AnneliekeOutdoors #slovenia #triglavnationalpark #hikingslovenia #julianalps #socavalley
@annelieke_outdoors
1K likes • 4.2K views

🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots

Crucial for the steep, rocky sections. Good grip prevents slips on loose terrain. Reddit

💧 Pack Plenty of Water

Hydration is key for the 2.5-hour uphill climb. Refill stations are scarce. Reddit

💎Crystal-clear water, towering mountains and the breathtaking beauty of Lake Krn 🌊🏞️ Discover Slovenia’s hidden gem! ⛰️✨🇸🇮 #lake #slovenia #for #you #fyp #dreamdestinations #teamwork #CapCut
@leoverse2000
1.3K likes • 32.8K views
KRNSKO JEZERO : Slovenia hidden gem.. Krnsko jezero (also known as Lake Krn) is the largest glacial lake in Slovenia, located in the Triglav National Park in the Julian Alps. Basic Information • Altitude: ~1,391 meters (4,564 ft) • Area: ~59,000 m² • Max depth: ~17.5 meters • Length: ~400 meters • Width: ~150 meters ⸻ 📍 Location • Below Mount Krn (2,244 m) in western Slovenia • Near the ...
@rhubielyn14
29 likes • 528 views

☁️ Check Weather Forecast

Conditions change rapidly. Arriving soaked is a common regret. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Start from Lepena

The hike from Dom dr. Klementa Juga v Lepeni is well-traveled and scenic. Reddit

reddit.com

Visiting Slovenia from Canada and looking for feedback on my 7-10 day itinerary in September

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots

Crucial for the steep, rocky sections. Good grip prevents slips on loose terrain. Reddit

💧 Pack Plenty of Water

Hydration is key for the 2.5-hour uphill climb. Refill stations are scarce. Reddit

☁️ Check Weather Forecast

Conditions change rapidly. Arriving soaked is a common regret. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Start from Lepena

The hike from Dom dr. Klementa Juga v Lepeni is well-traveled and scenic. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(209 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Lake Krn for its stunning natural beauty, describing it as a 'beautiful lake' and 'amazing' despite the challenging 2.5-hour uphill hike. The rewarding views and serene mountain setting make the effort worthwhile for most. Some note that parts of the hike can be steep and rocky, emphasizing the need for good footwear and preparation. Reddit

"Sabrina says it’s worth the effort to get here! 2’30’’ hours uphill climbing from the parking lot. Check the weather in advance, we’re arrived soaked wet ☔️"

Gianluca Scarpellini

"Beautiful lake and sorroundings. The hike from Lepena direction is quite long (2,5 hours) and somewhat boring until you get near the top. Nonetheless, the final part of the hike near the mountain hut is totally worth it. Make sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring enough water. Highly recommended!"

Aljosa Todorovic

"Nice hike through the forest. We did it for 2 h from Lepena(depends on the physical level) Really nice lake and great views to Krn."

Aleksandra Markova

What People Like

Breathtaking glacial lake
Rewarding mountain views
Worth the challenging hike

What People Dislike

Steep and rocky trail
Long uphill climb

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lake Krn is primarily accessed via hiking. The most common starting point is the Dom dr. Klementa Juga v Lepeni mountain hut in the Lepena Valley. From there, it's a challenging 2.5-hour uphill hike. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at the Dom dr. Klementa Juga v Lepeni mountain hut, which serves as the trailhead for the hike to Lake Krn. Reddit

While direct public transport to the trailhead is limited, you can take buses to nearby towns like Bovec and then arrange local transport or a taxi to reach the Lepena Valley. Planning ahead is recommended. Reddit

The most popular and recommended approach is the hike from the Lepena Valley. Other routes may exist but are less frequently used by tourists. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit Lake Krn itself. However, parking at the trailhead may have a small fee. Reddit

Lake Krn is an outdoor natural attraction and is accessible at all times. However, hiking during daylight hours is strongly advised for safety. Reddit

No, the hike to Lake Krn is free. The primary costs involve transportation to the trailhead and any refreshments you might purchase. Reddit

While technically accessible, visiting Lake Krn in winter is not recommended due to snow, ice, and potentially hazardous hiking conditions. It's best enjoyed during the warmer months. Reddit

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

The hike from the Lepena Valley typically takes around 2.5 hours uphill to reach the lake. The return journey might be slightly quicker. Reddit

The hike is considered moderately difficult due to its sustained uphill climb and some steep, rocky sections. Good physical condition and appropriate footwear are necessary. Reddit

There is a mountain hut located about 10 minutes before reaching the lake where you can purchase drinks and food. The lake itself is a natural attraction with no built facilities. Reddit

Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support and grip. Layers of clothing are recommended as temperatures can vary. A waterproof jacket is advisable due to potential rain. Reddit

The hike is challenging and may not be suitable for very young children or those with limited mobility. Older children who are accustomed to hiking might enjoy the adventure. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The lake itself offers stunning reflections and panoramic views. The surrounding mountain peaks and the approach through the forest also provide beautiful photographic opportunities. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds. However, the dramatic mountain scenery is impressive throughout the day. Reddit

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. However, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive lake and mountain vistas. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The hike to Lake Krn is a significant undertaking and may not be suitable for families with very young children or those who are not accustomed to strenuous activity. The 2.5-hour uphill climb, with steep and rocky sections, requires good stamina and proper footwear. Reddit If your family enjoys challenging hikes and your children are older and experienced hikers, the reward of reaching Slovenia's largest glacial lake can be immense. Consider packing plenty of snacks and water, and take breaks as needed. The mountain hut near the lake offers a welcome respite for refreshments. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Lake Krn is an excellent destination for budget travelers as the primary cost is transportation to the trailhead and any food or drinks purchased along the way. The hike itself is free, and there are no entrance fees. Reddit Packing your own lunch and snacks can further reduce expenses. For accommodation, consider staying in more affordable guesthouses or hostels in nearby towns like Bovec, and then arranging transport to the Lepena Valley. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Hiking Experience

The journey to Lake Krn is an integral part of its allure. The hike from the Lepena Valley, typically starting at the Dom dr. Klementa Juga v Lepeni, is a sustained uphill trek that can take around 2.5 hours. While some sections are described as 'somewhat boring' until you near the top, the latter part of the trail offers increasingly rewarding views. Reddit The path winds through forests, providing welcome shade, but also features steep, rocky inclines that require careful footing. Many visitors emphasize the importance of wearing appropriate footwear to navigate these challenging parts safely. Reddit

As you ascend, the landscape gradually opens up, revealing glimpses of the surrounding peaks. The anticipation builds with every step, culminating in the breathtaking sight of the lake. Just about 10 minutes before reaching the main lake, you'll find another mountain hut, a perfect spot to pause, grab a drink, and soak in the approaching beauty. Reddit This hike is a true test of endurance but is consistently described as 'worth the effort' by those who complete it, making the destination all the more satisfying.

Understanding Lake Krn's Ecology

Lake Krn is recognized as the largest glacial lake in Slovenia, a testament to the powerful geological forces that shaped the Julian Alps. Formed during the last glacial period, its pristine waters are fed by snowmelt and natural springs, maintaining its characteristic emerald hue. The lake's high altitude and remote location contribute to its unique ecosystem, supporting a variety of alpine flora and fauna. Reddit

Conservation efforts are crucial to preserving the natural beauty and ecological balance of Lake Krn. Visitors are encouraged to stay on marked trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and pack out all trash to minimize their impact. The surrounding area is part of Triglav National Park, a protected zone that safeguards Slovenia's natural heritage. Respecting these guidelines ensures that Lake Krn remains a spectacular natural wonder for generations to come. Reddit

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