The best walks and hikes around Idrija
4.5
(316)
2,630
hikers
15
hikes
Hiking around Idrija, Slovenia, offers diverse landscapes within the UNESCO Global Geopark Idrija. The region features varied topography, including the Idrija tectonic trench, dense forests, and river valleys carved by the Idrijca and Belca rivers. Hikers can explore areas ranging from the Upper Idrijca Landscape Park with its gorges and waterfalls to the elevated Idrija Hills and panoramic summits.
Best hiking trails around Idrija
- The most popular hiking route is Idrija Mercury Mine – Hleviška Planina Mountain Hut loop from Idrija, a 8.8 miles (14.2 km) trail that takes 5 hours 7 minutes to complete. This difficult route connects historical mining sites with a mountain hut offering scenic views.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Mountain Hut on Javornik – Lookout Tower loop from Smučišče SKI BOR Črni vrh, a moderate 6.2 miles (10.0 km) path. This trail leads to a lookout tower, providing expansive vistas of the surrounding peaks and forests.
- Local hikers also love the Idrija Mercury Mine – Rake Water Channel (341 m) loop from Idrija, a 3.2 miles (5.2 km) trail leading through historical mining areas and along the Rake Water Channel, often completed in about 1 hour 23 minutes.
- Hiking around Idrija is defined by its unique geological formations, dense forests, and historical water channels. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy riverside walks to more challenging mountain ascents.
- The routes in Idrija are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 60 reviews. More than 500 hikers have used komoot to explore Idrija's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
4.5
(10)
39
hikers
14.2km
05:06
600m
600m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.5
(4)
35
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.5
(6)
36
hikers
11.7km
03:59
580m
580m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
33
hikers
9.79km
02:59
340m
340m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
15
hikers
16.9km
05:34
790m
780m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
20
hikers
6.00km
02:17
420m
420m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
15
hikers
5.26km
02:01
370m
370m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
3.32km
01:04
150m
150m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
5.26km
01:25
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
2
hikers
14.5km
04:42
590m
590m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Other adventures around Idrija
Tips from the Community
The oldest preserved entrance to the mercury mine in Idrija and one of the oldest in Europe. It was named after St. Anthony of Padua, who was considered the patron saint of the cave and a protector against accidents. It has been open to tourists since 1994.
0
0
Today, the castle is home to the Idrija City Museum. Its main exhibition spaces are dedicated to presenting the extraordinary half-millennium history of the city of Idrija and the local mercury mine, the second largest mine of this precious metal on the planet.
0
0
The mine compressor station also occupied an important place in the mine. Since 1914, various compressors have been used to produce compressed air for almost a hundred years to make work in the mine faster and safer.
0
0
In the former loading station of the Jožef Mine cable car at the entry point to Rake, four locomotives and five ore transport carts are exhibited.
0
0
The Scopoli Memorial Garden was planted in Idrija in memory of the pioneering nature explorers. It can be visited at the entry point of the Raka walking trail.
0
0
The observation tower on the top of Javornik is covered in snow and ice. In winter, the weather is often windy, so warm and windproof clothing and good shoes are a must (if necessary, use crampons).
0
0
The hut stands at the upper edge of a large clearing just below the peak of Hleviška planina, one of the peaks of the hilly area between Idrijca and Nikovo. The first outpost was set up by Idrija mountaineers in a house they bought from the forester Križič and opened on 20 July 1948. Hleviška planina is a popular excursion spot for the people of Idrijca and a point on the Slovenian Mountain Trail, so the hut soon became too small. In 1953, they began building a new, larger hut next to the old one; it was opened on 19 June 1955. The hut was later improved in many ways: in 1975, a water supply was installed, and in 1979 it was thoroughly renovated. Between 1985 and 1989, the Idrija Mountaineering Association enlarged and modernised the hut: an extension was built, the interior was modernised and the exterior of the building was arranged. The ceremonial opening of the enlarged and renovated hut was on June 18, 1989, during the celebration of the 85th anniversary of the Idrija Mountaineering Association. Another thorough renovation took place in the years 2000 - 2005, when it was the 50th anniversary of the hut's opening. A winter room with four beds has also been arranged. The stamps of the Slovenian Mountain Trail, the Idrija-Cerkljanje Mountain Trail and the Slovenian Touring Bike Trail are located in a box, hung under the canopy of the woodshed. View: A more extensive view is from the nearby grassy peak of Hleviška planina. To the east we can see Idrija nearby, above it the Gore, and to the right Medvedje Brdo; on the south side the Črnovrška plateau with Javornik and Špik rises above the narrow Bela valley; To the southwest and west we see the lonely farms in Čekovnik, a sprawling hilly settlement between Idrijca and Nikovo, and behind us the northern slopes of the Trnovski gozd with Golaki; to the northwest are the Vojskarska plateau and Jelenk, nearby is the valley along the Nikova stream, and ahead we see part of the sprawling settlement of Kanomlja; to the north we see Porezen, Črni vrh nad Novaki, Blegoš, Ratitovec, Bevkov vrh, Ermanovec, Stari vrh and Lubnik, and the horizon is closed by the Julian Alps with Triglav, the Karavanke and the Kamnik Alps.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there around Idrija?
Idrija offers a selection of 15 hiking trails. These include 3 easy routes, 10 moderate routes, and 2 difficult trails, providing options for various skill levels.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Idrija has several easy trails. For a gentle walk, consider the Idrija Mercury Mine – Rake Water Channel loop from Idrija, which is 3.2 miles (5.2 km) long and takes about 1 hour 23 minutes. Another easy option is the Hleviška Planina Mountain Hut loop from Wild Lake, a 3.3 km route that explores the area around the mysterious Wild Lake.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on hikes in Idrija?
Hiking in Idrija offers diverse natural features. You can explore the unique geology of the UNESCO Global Geopark Idrija, including the Idrija tectonic trench. Trails often follow the crystal-clear Idrijca River, leading through lush forests, past gorges, and even to waterfalls. The region is also known for its varied flora, including the endemic Carniolan primrose, and the mysterious Divje Jezero (Wild Lake), a protected natural monument.
Are there any trails that offer panoramic views or lead to viewpoints?
Absolutely. For expansive vistas, the Mountain Hut on Javornik – Lookout Tower loop from Smučišče SKI BOR Črni vrh is a popular choice. This moderate 10 km trail leads to a lookout tower, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and forests. Elevated spots like Mount Hleviše (908 m) and the summits above Črni Vrh also offer panoramic views, stretching from the Adriatic Sea to Triglav on clear days.
Can I hike with my dog in Idrija?
Many trails in Idrija are suitable for hiking with dogs, especially those that traverse natural landscapes and forests. It's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, particularly in protected areas like the Upper Idrijca Landscape Park, and to respect local wildlife and other hikers. Always carry water for your dog, especially on longer routes.
Are there any circular hiking routes around Idrija?
Yes, many of the trails in Idrija are designed as loops. For example, the Idrija Mercury Mine – Hleviška Planina Mountain Hut loop from Idrija is a challenging 14.2 km circular route. Another option is the Mountain Hut on Javornik loop from Dolgi grič, a moderate 4.3 km trail.
What historical or cultural landmarks can I see while hiking in Idrija?
Idrija's hiking trails often intertwine with its rich mining history. You can explore the UNESCO World Heritage mercury mine area. The Rake Water Channel, built in 1604 to serve the mine, now features a popular walking path. You can also see the Kamšt, an 18th-century waterwheel, and the impressive 18th-century Klavže Dams, sometimes called 'Slovenian pyramids', which were used for timber transport.
What is the best season for hiking in Idrija?
The best seasons for hiking in Idrija are generally spring, summer, and autumn. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming flora, while summer offers warmer temperatures ideal for exploring rivers and lakes. Autumn provides vibrant fall colors and comfortable hiking conditions. While some trails may be accessible, winter hiking can be challenging due to snow and ice, especially at higher elevations.
Is public transport available to reach hiking trailheads in Idrija?
While Idrija has some local bus services, direct public transport to all trailheads might be limited, especially for routes starting in more remote areas. It's advisable to check local bus schedules in advance or consider driving to trailheads where parking is available. For more detailed information on local transport, it's best to consult local tourist information.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Idrija?
The komoot community highly rates hiking in Idrija, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 60 reviews. Hikers often praise the region's unique blend of natural beauty, including its diverse landscapes and geological formations, with its rich historical and cultural heritage, particularly the mercury mining sites and water channels. The varied terrain offers something for everyone, from easy riverside strolls to challenging mountain ascents.
Are there any specific attractions near the Wild Lake that I can visit?
Yes, the Divje Jezero (Wild Lake) itself is a protected natural monument and Slovenia's first outdoor museum in nature. A 3 km trail, 'Pot ob Rakah,' follows the Idrijca River Canal from the Kamšt (an 18th-century waterwheel) directly to the Wild Lake, offering a picturesque walk. After heavy rains, you might even witness the lake's deep karst spring gush water like a geyser.
Are there any long-distance hiking trails that pass through Idrija?
Yes, Idrija is part of several significant long-distance trails. The Idrija-Cerkno Mountain Trail, an extensive 184 km alpine route, offers varied landscapes and natural heritage. Additionally, the Idrija Municipality is part of the 617.4 km long Slovenian Mountain Hiking Trail / Transverzala, one of Europe's oldest and most popular connecting routes. The Via Alpina (Red Trail) also passes through the Idrija Hills.
Most popular routes around Idrija
Most popular attractions around Idrija
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
