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Overview
Route E is the Upper Lakes circuit from Entrance 2, pairing serene boardwalk walking with a short electric boat hop and a shuttle ride back. Expect emerald‑to‑turquoise water, wooded shores, and a steady stream of waterfalls. Total distance is about 5.1 km (3.17 miles), typically done in 2–3 hours depending on queues for the boat and shuttle.
Route in a Nutshell
From Entrance 2, walk to pier P1 and take the quick boat across Lake Kozjak to P2. From there, follow the well‑marked “E” signs upstream through the Upper Lakes—past Burgeti, Gradinsko, Milino, Galovac, and Okrugljak—toward the higher basins near Lake Prošćansko. Finish by catching the panoramic shuttle from ST3 back to ST2 at Entrance 2.
Highlights
This loop concentrates many of the park’s best Upper Lakes boardwalks and cascades into a compact outing. Don’t miss the viewpoints around Veliki and Mali Prštavac and the fan of travertine steps at Galovački Buk. The blend of boat + walk + shuttle keeps the pace varied and lets you cover a lot without backtracking when services operate.
Best Time to Hike
Hit park opening or after 3 pm for softer light and noticeably thinner crowds. Midday brings the heaviest lines at the P1→P2 boat and at ST3 for the shuttle—plan 15–30+ minutes each at peak. On shoulder‑season days, the Upper Lakes feel wonderfully tranquil.
Practical Tips
Follow “E” wayfinding and stop codes (P1/P2 for boats; ST3/ST2 for shuttles). Wear grippy footwear—boardwalks are often wet. Carry water and a snack; options are limited once you’re on the loop. Stay on the boardwalks and do not swim. If you want a longer day that also includes the Lower Lakes, consider the full‑day H route from Entrance 2; Route E essentially covers the Upper‑Lakes half used in the longer C/H programs.
Seasonal Notes
In snow or ice, the park may suspend the boat and/or shuttle, and parts of Route E can close. If services are off, you’ll likely do out‑and‑back segments instead of a full loop. Boardwalks get slick in winter—slow down and mind footing.
Pros
- Efficient mix of boat, boardwalks, and shuttle lets you see a lot fast
- Clear “E” signage with P1/P2 and ST3/ST2 stop codes makes navigation simple
Cons
- Boat and shuttle queues can add 15–30+ minutes during peak hours
- Winter service suspensions can force partial closures or out‑and‑back walking
Parking
Begin at Entrance 2 (south entrance); the loop starts near P1 and returns via shuttle to ST2.
Caution
Boardwalks can be wet and slick; in snow/ice the boat and shuttle may not run and sections can close—plan for delays and stay on marked boardwalks.
