JULIANA TRAIL - Gesamtverlauf

We walked stage 4 - 13 from accommodation to accommodation with approx 10 kg Rucksacks. We appreciated the large variety of different stages from high mountain meadows to wild river paths, from lakes to woods and lovely views. Lots of lovely remote villages, too. Thumbs up to the length of the stages, some quite challenging interspersed with easy walks inviting additional excursions from gorges and water falls to museums. There were some draw backs, too. Considering that this path is pretty new I hope it can be improved on: - signage: some stages are very well indicated, others very badly. Most prominent example is Pokljuka. The way up gives more than ample opportunity to get lost and GPS signal is not always available to help stay on track. The next day however is really well indicated - it being a different county in charge - the track lacks benches and/or shelters on many stages. These could and should be added over time. - much too much asphalt for no apparent reason. We found alternative routes without adding much to the stages and where we did follow the official asphalt and road routes, we were certain, alternatives through fields and woods could be found. Make deals with local farmers where necessary - but do consider rerouting where the road exceeds 2 km in unbroken length.

First off, the Julian Alps are beautiful. However, the Juliana Trail is not what I expected. I did stages 1-6 from Kranjska Gora to Bohinij but then quit after five days. There was too much walking on pavement/streets or next to streets. I totally hurt my feet and legs. I’m a seasoned hiker but want to be in nature. Not too much of that on the Juliana Trail. I then went into the National Park to climb Triglav and do a 4-day hike. It was absolutely stunning and exactly what I was looking for. Beautiful scenery, trails and little paths and of course nature. Totally worth it. I wish I’d known this and I wouldn’t have wasted my time on the Juliana “Trail”. Just my opinion, of course, but important info for future hikers.

First of all, the Julian alps are magnificent. The Juliana trail however I found quite disappointing. I walked the stages from Jesenice until Ukanc, where I left the path and climbed the Triglav. I’m a seasoned hiker and carry tent, camping stove and food with me. Normally I do mountain trails and was attracted to the nice site. It sounds great to do a circular path in the national park. Positive side is that the route is easy to find, it is clearly signposted. If you like walking on dirt roads and through pine forest, this is your walking path. I switched to the Slovenian mountain trail which suits me better. The views are better and the trail is much more beautiful and demanding. Only downside is that you rely solely on mountain huts and my tent was pretty useless. I think it is best suited for people who like to walk lightly from village to village and sleep in hostels or hotels. For more adventurous types, chose any of the other mountain trails. Sorry to say, I do appreciate the effort and love that was put into the making of this route, but it is not for me.