Via Dinarica White Trail

The trail starts in Slovenia, in the mountain town of Razdrto. Winding its way through the southern reaches of the Julian Alps, you will cross alpine mountain scenery and pass by pleasant mountain villages on your way to the Croatian border. Once you cross into Croatia, the White Trail takes you into Risnjak National Park, the first of many nature preserves you will pass through. The trail continues southward along the Dinaric Alps, briefly following the Premužić Trail through Velebit National Park before continuing along the rugged karst mountain scenery into Paklenica National Park. This section is especially scenic, as the trail offers breathtaking views over the Adriatic Sea and plenty of opportunities to take a break from the trail in one of the many idyllic towns that dot the coastline below.

The Via Dinarica White Trail then leaves the coastline to veer inland on its way to Bosnia-Herzegovina. Here you will encounter some of the most challenging, but also some of the most rewarding sections of the entire trail. The Herzegovinian mountains form a region known for its dramatic views, challenging climbs, and welcoming hospitality. When you eventually approach the Montenegro border in Sutjeska National Park, a detour to the peak of Maglić mountain is highly recommended!

You will then visit the lush green landscape of the Prirode Piva and Durmitor national parks before hiking some relatively easy sections as you cross the Montenegrin countryside. Be sure to sample the local hospitality while passing the many villages in this section! Soon, the White Trail approaches the mountains again when it closes in on the Albanian border. It passes through Biogradska Gora and Prirode Komovi national parks before crossing the border, offering up some of the last serious challenges of the trail.

Once in Albania, the Via Dinarica White Trail mostly follows a series of valleys before finding its end near the town of Valbona. However, this might not be the official ending for much longer, as there is talk of expanding the trail through Albania into North Macedonia.

Due to the long distance involved, a complete thru-hike (or any section hike) will need to take place between June and October. The weather will be the warmest between these months, reaching the highest temperatures in July and August (around 30 Celcius or 86 Fahrenheit).

To avoid snow in the higher reaches of the Dinaric Alps, it’s best not to start your adventure until mid-June. Avoiding the hottest months is also recommended if you don’t hike well in the heat. June and September are therefore recommended if you prefer hiking in cooler weather.

Keep in mind that the weather in the high mountains can change rapidly, and it’s essential to be prepared for various conditions, including sudden rain or snow showers. Always check trail conditions, and local weather forecasts before embarking on a high-alpine hike. Additionally, consider your hiking experience and skill level, as some sections of the Via Dinarica White Trail can be challenging and require proper equipment and experience.

First things first, do your homework on the trail. Check out the details on factors like how tough it is, how long it’ll take, and what kind of terrain you’ll be tackling in which sections. Don’t just rely on HIKING-TRAILS.com; hit up guidebooks, chat with folks who’ve hit the trail, and tap into local hiking groups for insider tips.

Share your itinerary with people you trust—including your approximate start and end times, where you’re headed, and who to call in case things go wrong. Safety first, always!

Keep an eye on the weather, too. Please stay off the trails if you see or hear of extreme weather heading your way. Bring along plenty of water and some snacks to keep your energy levels up. In July and August, try to bring 4 liters each day.

Stick to marked trails, pack out your trash, and show some love to the critters and plants you come across by practicing Leave No Trace.