Durmitor National Park, Montenegro: Prutaš Peak Hiking Guide
Durmitor National Park is located in the northeast of Montenegro. With nearly 50 peaks over 2,000 meters above sea level, the Durmitor area attracts numerous hikers and nature enthusiasts. The most-visited spot is undoubtedly the stunning Black Lake, which is the largest glacial lake in the park. Other highlights include rafting or ziplining in the Tara Canyon, mountain biking or driving the panoramic P14 route, or hiking to one of the many peaks. Bobotov Kuk is the most popular hiking trail and it’s the highest peak at 2,523m or 8,277ft of elevation. But if you’re looking for a hike that’s less exposed and quieter than Bobotov Kuk, but just as beautiful, then we recommend hiking to Prutaš Peak. The locals we talked to described this hike as having the best ratio of effort versus beauty, and we agree! In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know for the Prutaš Peak hike and showcase its beautiful views.
Check out our video on Durmitor National Park to see the Prutaš peak hiking trail through our camera!
Table Of Contents
Important Things To Know
Best time to travel to the Durmitor National Park
It’s best to hike Prutaš peak between mid-June to the end of October. During the winter, the road to get to the trailhead will have snow, which makes it difficult to reach at that time. If you do decide to go in winter, make sure to have full winter equipment ready. Always wear good hiking shoes, because the last push to the top is rocky and can be a bit slippery when it’s wet.
Hiking essentials for Prutaš peak
In order to hike Prutaš peak, you will need to bring some essentials in your day pack:
At least 2 liters of water and nutritious snacks. There’s neither water sources nor places where you can find shade along the way.
Sturdy hiking boots, warm hiking gear (the ridge and summit get cold!), and a rain jacket just in case
Sunscreen
Phone with Maps.me dowloaded or an actual trail map
Cost
Durmitor National Park is an affordable travel destination. A day ticket for the park is €3, you can also buy a 3-day ticket for €6 or a 7-day ticket for €12. You can find the ticket booth at the entrance of Black Lake. However, to start the Prutaš peak hike you won't have a purchase a ticket and no one seems to check either.
Where To Stay
It’s best to base yourself in the nearby town of Žabljak, which has lots of accommodation options. From here, you can either drive to the trailhead or take a taxi.
Apartment Usović: great apartment with fully-equipped kitchen and has an excellent location (this is where we stayed!)
Apartments Stevovic: small cozy bungalows
Putaš Peak Hike Route Overview
Hiking overveiw:
Difficulty: Moderate (out-and-back hike)
Length: 9.57km (5.9mi) round trip
Time needed: 4-6 hours
Elevation gain: 854m or 2,801ft
Summit altitude: 1,393m or 7,800 ft
Starting the Prutaš peak hike
In order to start the hike, you need to drive the panoramic route P14 until you reach a wooden frame that has “Sedlo” written on it. Note that there are also other approaches to reach Prutaš peak, but this southern approach is the easiest route.
The first 2.5 kilometers or 1.5 miles of the hike take you along the slopes of a beautiful, green valley. The ascent is gradual and the views are incredibly inspiring. Before you realize it, you’ll arrive at a ridge (Škrčko Ždrijelo pass at 2,114m or 6,935ft). It is the ideal place to take a break and have some lunch. From here, you have breathtaking views including a view of Bobotov Kuk, the highest point in Durmitor.
The path splits here into different directions, as there’s a trail that also goes down to the glacial lakes (Skrka lakes). But to pursue Prutaš peak, you’ll stay to the left and keep climbing up. The trail continues along beautiful grassy slopes with stunning views both left and right. Once you get close to the peak, you’ll be able to observe the impressive vertical sedimentary layers of Prutaš. This strange rock cliff is what gave name to the peak, which translates to “a mountain made of twigs”.
At the top, you deserve some time to rest and soak up the beauty surrounding you. The 360 panoramic views stretch all across the mountain peaks of Durmitor National Park. You’ll even spot Tara Canyon to the north!
After another 15 minutes of hiking pas the summit, you’ll arrive at the final viewpoint. Here, you’ll be able to observe the Skrka Lakes! There’s the option to descend down from here to the Skrka Lakes. In this way, you can make it a loop but you also add at least another hour and it’s a lot more exposed. We only recommend that option for very experienced hikers. The easiest option is to return along the same route you came, which takes about 2 hours to get back to the parking lot.
Use These Websites To Save Money On Your Trip To Montenegro
Booking.com for places to stay
Skyscanner for cheap flights
GetYourGuide for local tours
Rentalcars.com for affordable car rentals
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Other Top Durmitor National Park resources:
If you're looking for some other suggestions and tips on the Durmitor National Park, here are some great articles that will help you:
21 Best Things to do in Durmitor National Park by Via Travelers
Durmitor National Park: Europe's Largest Canyon by Time Travel Turtle
Durmitor National Park, the Perfect Mountain Escape in Montenegro by Montenegro Pulse
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