Black Lake Loop (Crno Jezero)
Black Lake Loop (Crno Jezero): Easy Durmitor Lakeside Walk
The Black Lake Loop is a 3.5 km easy circular walk around Crno Jezero in Durmitor National Park, northern Montenegro. Starting near Žabljak, it is a half-day outing rather than a long-distance trek, taking roughly 1 to 1.5 hours at a relaxed pace. The route suits families, first-time visitors to Durmitor and hikers wanting a low-effort lake walk below Međed peak before attempting harder routes such as the Bobotov Kuk Summit Trail.
Route Overview
The loop begins and ends at the main Durmitor National Park entrance/visitor area near Žabljak, about 3 km from the town centre on a mostly paved approach. The path circles Black Lake, linking Veliko jezero and Malo jezero via the natural strait between the two basins, which can dry out in summer. Expect shaded conifer forest, dirt and rocky lakeside sections, and views across the water to Međed peak. No fixed walking direction is specified; it is a straightforward waymarked loop. For another Montenegro lake circuit, compare it with the Biogradska Gora Lake Loop, or choose the Crna Glava Peak Trail for a higher Durmitor objective.
Durmitor National Park and Black Lake history
Durmitor National Park was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1980 for its glacial geology, canyons and forests. The national park was formally founded in 1952, while Black Lake had protected status as early as 1907. Crno Jezero remains the best-known and most visited of Durmitor’s glacial lakes, sitting within the Tara River basin, an area also associated with one of Europe’s deepest canyons.
Notable highlights
- Black Lake / Crno Jezero: The largest of Durmitor’s 18 glacial lakes and the park’s most famous attraction. Its dark appearance comes from reflections of the dense surrounding conifer forest.
- Veliko jezero and Malo jezero: The loop links the Big Lake and Small Lake basins, joined by a natural strait that often dries out in summer.
- Međed peak (2,285 m): This bear-shaped limestone wall rises above the eastern shore and gives the lake its classic Durmitor backdrop.
- Black pine and fir forest: Shaded conifer woodland rings the lake and reflects on the water, adding shelter and atmosphere to the short walk.
- Bifurcation hydrology: Water from Black Lake sinks underground and emerges in both the Tara and Piva river systems, a rare natural feature.
Challenges to expect
This is an easy, mostly flat walk, but it is not a paved promenade throughout. Expect rocky, root-strewn and sometimes damp sections close to the water, with slippery footing after rain or snowmelt. Two small stream crossings can be wet near the strait between the lakes. Winter access is possible, but the route may be snow-covered. A Durmitor National Park entrance fee applies; no separate hiking permit is needed.
Montenegro - Mountainous
- Forest
- Dirt
- Rocky
- Hotels
- Campsites
- Family Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Restrooms
- Water Sources
- Campsites
- Picnic Areas
The Black Lake Loop begins at the main entrance area near the visitor center and parking facilities in Žabljak. The route follows a clearly marked, circular trail that hugs the shoreline of Black Lake, first passing along Veliko Jezero (the larger lake) with gentle, well-trodden paths ideal for easy walking. As you continue, the trail moves into pine forest sections, where the surface becomes slightly rocky and rooty, blending small inclines and shaded stretches. Next you circle Malo Jezero (the smaller, adjacent lake), providing a change in scenery and photogenic views where the lakes converge. The final section completes the loop back at the starting visitor area, with access to amenities and ample opportunities to pause for photos or picnics throughout the walk.