Mrtvica Canyon

What is this place

Mrtvica Canyon is a scenic gorge of the Mrtvica River on the southern flanks of the Morača Mountains, between Podgorica and Kolašin. A popular hiking path starts near the village of Međuriječje and follows the emerald river to the natural arch “Kapija želja” (Gate of Wishes).

Key features

• Danilo’s Bridge (1858) – a stone bridge built by Prince Danilo Petrović in memory of his mother Krstinja; the classic trailhead.
• “Kapija želja” – a natural stone arch in the river corridor; the trail’s most photographed spot.
• “Mrtvičke grede” – a cliff-cut ledge path made in the Yugoslav Army era, with airy traverses.
• Canyon length about 15 km from Međuriječje to Velje Duboko; most visitors walk shorter 6–12 km out-and-back sections.
• Zeleni Vir – refreshing summer dips in crystal water.

What to see

• The stone Danilo’s Bridge and the first narrow river sections.
• The Gate of Wishes arch and turquoise pools beneath vertical walls.
• The ledge passage of “Mrtvičke grede” with grand views.

History

Danilo’s Bridge was built in 1858 by Prince Danilo Petrović, formalising a key crossing and becoming a local landmark. Place names along the route became established in the 20th century with the spread of leisure hiking.

During Yugoslav times a cliff-ledge path (“Mrtvičke grede”) was cut into the rock by army units, improving passage through the middle canyon. Today the way is waymarked and maintained informally, still a “wild” trail with minimal facilities.

Practical information

Location: Kolašin Municipality; usual start at Međuriječje on the E65/E80 Podgorica–Kolašin highway.

Getting there: drive E65/E80 to the signed turn for Međuriječje; continue to Danilo’s Bridge and the meadow with informal parking at the trailhead.

Access: free; no gates or services; virtually no facilities.

Visiting hours: daytime.

Visit duration: 2–3 h to the Gate of Wishes out-and-back; 4–6 h to the ledges; a full day for the through-hike.

Best time: spring and autumn for mild weather and good flow; summer for swimming and long daylight.

Notes: rocky tread with narrow ledges and scree; sturdy footwear, water and sun protection essential; patchy cell coverage; pack out all waste.