Sveto Brdo – ascent to Velebit’s second-highest peak
- 06:00
- 15.5 km
- 1200 m
The deep Krupa River canyon hides dozens of cascades, waterfalls, and the stone Kudin Most bridge. Expect a river ford as well, with the chance to cool off in crystal-clear, chilly water.
From the parking area, a rocky path descends with beautiful views down into the canyon, where the Krupa River winds its way below. Along its short course you’ll find countless cascades, several waterfalls, and the more than 100-metre-long stone Kudin Most. The trail drops down to it, and its 12 arches make for an easy crossing to the river’s left bank.
The path continues along the river, passes a large scree slope, and leads to a meadow with the roaring Panin Buk waterfall at its far end. The trail ends here, and the only way to continue is by fording the river. Do not try to cross right above the waterfall. Instead, head back a few dozen metres upstream, where the river is wider, shallower, and the current is weaker.
The ford is safe only when water levels are normal. After rain or in spring, when the river is often high, the crossing can be dangerous.
After the ford, the short loop splits off. The trail turns right and climbs more steeply up the canyon wall back to the upper rim. As you gain height, impressive views open up over the Krupa River and the surrounding cliffs.
The trail brings you directly back to the parking area where you started. This loop is shorter and easier than the option continuing to the confluence with the Zrmanja and the Visoki Buk waterfall, but it still offers a wonderful outing and the area’s main highlights: Kudin Most, Panin Buk, and the crystal-clear Krupa River.
Near Kudin Most, it is sometimes possible to buy water, soft drinks, or beer, but you should not count on it. The return route along the upper rim of the canyon can be brutally hot in summer, so make sure to bring plenty of water with you.
You can drive up a narrow paved road to a small parking area above the canyon. Arrive as early as possible, as it fills up quickly. If it is full, there is another even smaller parking area a little farther uphill. Once that fills up too, people park wherever they can along the narrow access road.