Plaška Glava

Plaška Glava is a 795-metre peak rising above the southeastern side of the Plaščanska Valley, part of the broader Ogulin-Plaščanska Valley in the Lika region, Karlovac County, Croatia. It overlooks the hamlet of Blata and the small town of Plaški, roughly 28 km south of Ogulin. The mountain draws day hikers looking for a rewarding summit without heavy logistics, tucked just off the main route connecting Karlovac and Lika.

How to get there?

Most trails begin near Plaški, with a road running toward Blata and up to the base of Plaška Glava's slopes. The hiking path starts close to the settlement, crosses a railway line, and enters the forest, climbing gradually via the northern approach. You can drive to the outskirts of Plaški or Blata and continue on foot from there — the route is marked and maintained by the local mountaineering society.

What will you see?

The signature stretch of the trail passes through the so-called Đurđa's Stairs, then continues through forest toward the Gradina hill (635 m), home to the ruins of the medieval fortified town of Plaški. In the 15th century the fortress belonged to the Frankopan family, one of Croatia's most prominent noble dynasties — today only fragments of the defensive walls remain, hinting at how strategically important this spot once was above the valley. Further along, the trail passes the distinctive Babin Zub rock formation before reaching a saddle, from which a short final climb leads to the summit of Plaška Glava. From the top, views open up across the entire Plaščanska Valley, the surrounding hills of Lika, and, on clear days, the more distant ridges of Mala Kapela. It's a route that pairs physical effort with regional history — an unusual combination over such a modest distance.

When to visit?

Spring and autumn are the best seasons for climbing Plaška Glava, offering comfortable temperatures for a multi-hour hike and forest paths free of snow. In summer the trail can get hot and partly exposed along the ridgeline, so an early start is worthwhile. In winter, icy patches on the rockier sections — particularly around Babin Zub — can make the ascent trickier, so less experienced hikers should exercise caution or postpone the trip until conditions improve.

Practical information

The trails on Plaška Glava and around Gradina are maintained by the local mountaineering society "Plaške Glave," based in Plaški and founded in 2012 to protect and promote the cultural, historical, and natural heritage of the Plaščanska Valley. Bring water and sturdy hiking boots — the terrain is rocky in places and requires sure footing, especially near Babin Zub and the Gradina ruins.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Plaška Glava? The peak reaches 795 metres above sea level, rising above the Plaščanska Valley in Karlovac County.

How long does the hike to the summit take? Starting from the Plaški area and passing through Gradina and Babin Zub, it's a typical day hike — the exact duration depends on fitness and pace, but plan for several hours round trip with stops at the ruins.

What else is worth seeing along the way besides the summit? The main historical highlight is the ruined medieval fortified town of Plaški on the Gradina hill (635 m), once owned by the Frankopan family, along with the distinctive Babin Zub rock near the saddle.

Is the trail suitable for beginners? Yes, in good weather conditions it's accessible to moderately fit hikers, though it requires basic stamina and proper footwear due to the rocky sections.