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Medvjedak

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Mountain

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Medvjedak is a forested mountain ridge located in the heart of the Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia, consisting of three main peaks: Oštri Medvjedak, Tupi Medvjedak, and Turčić. Standing at a maximum elevation of 889 meters above sea level, the massif provides a commanding view over the cascading lakes and karst valleys that define the park's topography. Geologically, the mountain is primarily composed of limestone and dolomite, which are characteristic of the Dinaric Alps and have facilitated the development of various karst phenomena. The dense beech and fir forests of Medvjedak serve as a vital habitat for large predators such as brown bears, wolves, and lynxes within this protected ecosystem. Hiking trails lead visitors through pristine natural areas where the flora displays a high degree of biodiversity, including several endemic species of the Balkan Peninsula. Historically, the area's rugged terrain kept it inaccessible for centuries, preserving the ancient forest structures from intensive human intervention and logging. Today, Medvjedak is a central component of the UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting naturalists and hikers seeking tranquility away from the park's main tourist routes.

Location: Croatia
Top sights: Turčić · Vodena dolina · Cave Šupljara
Nearby: Smoljanac (5 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	0	1	5	10	14	18	21	21	15	11	6	1
Rain mm	95	103	89	94	109	86	69	85	140	124	141	111

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Reaching this peak is usually done by starting at the main Plitvice Lakes area. Well-marked hiking routes generally guide visitors directly from the valley up into the dense mountain environment.

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Best season

The most favorable period to visit is usually from late spring to early autumn. During these months, the dense beech and fir forests are typically free of heavy snow, making the paths much safer.

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Terrain & paths

Hikers should expect a moderate to steep landscape characterized by thick woodland coverage. The natural paths navigate through dense tree roots and uneven earth, requiring a reasonable fitness level.

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What to bring

Sturdy hiking boots with solid ankle support are highly recommended for traversing the forest trails. Carrying a reliable physical map and layered clothing is also generally essential for changing conditions.

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Parking

Visitors typically leave their vehicles at the established parking zones of the national park. From these main lots, it is usually a straightforward walk to find the initial trailheads for the mountain.

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Safety

Sudden changes in local weather are relatively common, so checking forecasts beforehand is advised. Remaining on the officially marked forest paths is crucial to protect the delicate local flora and fauna.

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Time needed

An average round-trip hike typically occupies roughly a half day of continuous walking. Those wishing to take extensive photographs of the pristine trees often plan for a few extra hours on the trails.

Geography

Coordinates

44.89860, 15.62060

Facts

The highest peak, Oštri Medvjedak, reaches an elevation of 889 meters.
The ridge comprises three distinct peaks: Oštri Medvjedak, Tupi Medvjedak (868 m), and Turčić (801 m).
Medvjedak is located within the Plitvice Lakes National Park, established in 1949.
The geological composition consists mainly of Cretaceous limestone and dolomite.
The area provides a habitat for the protected brown bear, which gave the mountain its name.
The summit offers a panoramic view of the Prošćansko Lake and the surrounding karst plateaus.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Plitvička Jezera (village)2 km · SExplore →

Plitvice Lakes National Park4 km · SExplore →

Plitvice Lakes4 km · SWExplore →

📍Smoljanac5 km · NEExplore →

📍Vrelo Koreničko15 km · SExplore →

📍Gornje Vrhovine15 km · SWExplore →

📍Vrhovine17 km · WExplore →

📍Vranovača17 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Medvjedak (10)

Turčić

Turčić is a mountain in Lika-Senj County, Croatia.

Vodena dolina

Vodena dolina is a spring in Lika-Senj County, Croatia.

Cave Šupljara

Cave Šupljara is a cave in Croatia.

Mošinovac

Mošinovac is a spring in Lika-Senj County, Croatia.

Bear Cave

Bear Cave is a cave in Croatia.

Nacionalni park Plitvička jezera

Nacionalni park Plitvička jezera is a national park of Croatia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Krčingrad

Krčingrad are ruins in Croatia.

Tavanak

Tavanak is a mountain peak in Croatia.

Belvedere

Belvedere is a viewpoint.

Stubica

Stubica is a hill in Lika-Senj County, Croatia.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is Medvjedak located?

It is a mountain range above the Plitvice Lakes in the national park of the same name.

Does the summit offer a view of the lakes?

Yes, from the three peaks (Oštri, Tupi, and Turčić) you have beautiful views of the Upper Lakes.

How long is the hiking trail?

The circular trail takes about 2.5 to 3 hours and leads through dense primeval forests.

Do I need a ticket for the national park?

Yes, since the trail is within the Plitvice Lakes National Park, a valid entry ticket is required.

Are there bears there?

The name Medvjedak is derived from bears, and they indeed live in these secluded forest areas.

Medvjedak: where is it located?

Medvjedak is located in Croatia.

Medvjedak: what is there to see?

Highlights include Turčić, Vodena dolina, Cave Šupljara.

Medvjedak: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Medvjedak: why is it worth visiting?

Medvjedak is a forested mountain ridge located in the heart of the Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia, consisting of three main peaks: Oštri Medvjedak, Tupi Medvjedak, and Turčić.

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