Plizio Visual Lab
Peričnik Waterfall
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
River
The Peričnik Waterfall is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Slovenia, located within the Vrata Valley in the Triglav National Park. It consists of two distinct stages: the lower fall plunges 52 meters over a massive conglomerate cliff, while the upper fall drops a further 16 meters. Geologically, the waterfall was shaped by the erosive power of the Peričnik stream, which flows from the high karst plateaus into the glacial valley. A unique feature of the lower waterfall is the path that allows visitors to walk directly behind the curtain of falling water, providing a rare interior view of the geological layering. During winter, the waterfall often freezes completely, creating a massive wall of blue and green icicles that attracts ice climbers and photographers. Historically, the area has been a key waypoint for mountaineers heading toward the north face of Mount Triglav, Slovenia's highest peak. The site is strictly protected to maintain the purity of its glacial meltwater and to preserve the surrounding alpine flora, which is characteristic of the limestone terrain of the Julian Alps.
- Location: Slovenia
- Top sights: Slovenski planinski muzej · Pocar Homestead · Peričnik
- Nearby: Pokljuka (11 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 | -4 | -3 | 2 | 6 | 11 | 15 | 17 | 17 | 12 | 8 | 3 | -2 |
| Rain mm | 58 | 66 | 74 | 83 | 110 | 120 | 125 | 140 | 130 | 118 | 119 | 85 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Access to this iconic waterfall is typically straightforward via the valley road starting from the nearby settlements. Visitors generally park near the roadside and take a short, uphill forest trail directly to the falls.
Best season
Spring and early summer are usually the best times to witness the maximum water flow. Winter also provides a generally spectacular sight, as the waterfall frequently freezes into massive, beautiful icy pillars.
Terrain & paths
The short walk from the parking area involves a fairly steep but well-trodden dirt and rocky path. The famous walking path behind the waterfall is typically wet, slippery, and uneven, requiring cautious steps.
What to bring
Good walking shoes with solid traction are generally essential due to the damp environment. A waterproof jacket or umbrella is usually highly recommended, as the spray from the iconic waterfall will likely get you wet.
Parking
A dedicated parking area is typically available near the local mountain hut. During busy summer weekends, space can generally be limited, so parking further down the valley road might be necessary.
Safety
Walking behind the water curtain is generally thrilling but carries a risk of slipping on the constantly wet rocks. Visitors should typically watch their heads for low overhangs and beware of falling icicles during winter visits.
Time needed
The hike up and the experience of walking around the falls typically takes about an hour in total. Many visitors generally combine this short trip with a broader exploration of the striking surrounding valley.
Geography
Facts
- Total combined height of the two falls is 68 meters
- The lower drop measures exactly 52 meters in height
- Located at an elevation of 750 meters in the Vrata Valley
- The path behind the fall has been accessible since 1904
- Part of the Triglav National Park since its expansion in 1981
- In winter, the frozen wall can reach a thickness of several meters
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Peričnik Waterfall (7)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Are you allowed behind the fall?
Yes, a path leads directly behind the lower waterfall.
How many waterfalls are there?
There are two: the upper (16m) and the lower (52m).
How is the access?
A short, steep path leads up from the road.
Is it worth visiting in winter?
Yes, when the waterfall freezes into giant ice pillars.
Where to park?
At the Koča pri Peričniku mountain hut in the Vrata Valley.
Peričnik Waterfall: where is it located?
Peričnik Waterfall is located in Slovenia.
Peričnik Waterfall: what is there to see?
Highlights include Slovenski planinski muzej, Pocar Homestead, Peričnik.
Peričnik Waterfall: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Peričnik Waterfall: why is it worth visiting?
The Peričnik Waterfall is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Slovenia, located within the Vrata Valley in the Triglav National Park.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Europe
More places in Slovenia →
Nearby cities
Kamnik
Kamnik is a historic town at the foot of the Kamnik–Savinja Alps.
Jesenice
Jesenice is known as the city of steel and ice hockey.
Domžale
Domžale is located north of Ljubljana at the foothills of the Kamnik Alps.
Nova Gorica
Nova Gorica was built after WWII directly on the border with Italy as a counterpart to the city of Gorizia.
Škofja Loka Medieval Town
Škofja Loka is considered one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Slovenia and boasts a history of over a thousand years.
Škofja Loka
Škofja Loka is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Slovenia.
Logatec
Logatec is located on a strategic route between Ljubljana and the Adriatic coast.
Vrhnika
Vrhnika is located at the western edge of the Ljubljana Marshes and is best known as the birthplace of the writer Ivan Cankar.
Grosuplje
Grosuplje is located in the Lower Carniola region.
Ravne na Koroškem
Ravne na Koroškem is the largest town in the Slovenian Carinthia region and is known for its steel industry.
Ajdovščina
Ajdovščina is located in the center of the Vipava Valley and is known for its strong Bora winds and Roman remains.
Litija
Litija is located on the Sava river.
Idrija
Idrija is known for its former mercury mine, once the second largest in the world, and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Radovljica
Radovljica is a medieval town situated on a terrace above the Sava River.
Medvode
Medvode is located at the confluence of the Sava and Sora rivers.
History & landmarks
Ljubljana Town Hall
The Town Hall on Town Square in Ljubljana is the seat of the city municipality.
BTC City Ljubljana
BTC City is one of the largest business, shopping, and entertainment centers in Europe.
Postojna Cave
Postojna Cave is a breathtaking 24 km long system of karst passages and chambers, famously explored via a unique underground electric train.
Postojna
Postojna is a strategically important town in the Slovenian Karst region, globally famous as the gateway to one of Europe's largest and m…
Vipava Valley
A fertile valley between the Karst and the mountains, known for the strong Burja wind and indigenous wines.
Škocjan Caves
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring Europe's largest underground canyon and massive caverns.
Kobarid
Historical town in the Soca Valley, famous for its WWI museum and the emerald-green Soca River.
Cerkno Hill
A versatile destination in the Goriška region, known for its modern ski center and the historical Franja Partisan Hospital.