Hike to Skradinski Buk Waterfall

Plitvice Lakes National Park gets most of the hype in Croatia, and for good reason. It's stunning, yet overrun by tourists and swimming is not possible. As a result, Krka National Park is seriously an underrated gem in this country. Same beauty. Less tourists. More swimming. More fun. Although the park itself is quite large (142 sq km), the main hike to and around Skardinski Buk Waterfall isn't very long (2km round trip) and only takes a few hours, including the break to swim and have picnic by the main waterfall cascade. 

Park at the big parking lot in Lozovac, buy your tickets, and either take a shuttle or the meandering walking path (I walked down the 875 meter long path and took the shuttle back up) to the beginning of the hike. Once at the bottom bus stop, facing the small village (a few buildings), take the first trail to the right onto the clearly marked footpath. Once on the trail it's nearly impossible to accidentally get off the trail or get lost. The loop is very well marked and maintained. The trail is mostly a wooden walkway that weaves in and out of the trees, with short side trails that give you different views of waterfalls. Be sure to take every side trail since you'll see all the best views. The trail will take you over the water and right next to the multiple falls so you get up close and personal with them. You see many smaller waterfalls, frogs, and butterflies on this walk, and it's really quite nice. The grand finale and the reason for doing this hike are the large and majestic cascades of Skardinski Buk. 

There are a few vendors by the falls from which you can grab a bite to eat and have a picnic in the field. Bathrooms are available if you need to change into your bathing suit. Now it's time for the best part- swimming in the waterfall! Be warned that the rocks are jagged and awkward to walk on, so I suggest wearing watershoes or sandals (not flip flops) if you have them. You can't swim directly under the falls, but you can certainly feel the force of it and the current of the river. There is a lifeguard on duty, so people of all ages can enjoy it.

After enjoying the beautiful waterfall, walk over the bridge and then it's a quick 5 minute walk, with one or two more viewpoints, back to the bus stop; completing the loop.

There is no better way to cool off on a hot Croatian day, and this park is a must do if you find yourself in this part of Europe!