If I only have 2 hours to spend at Plitvice Lakes (en route from Split to Ljubljana), is it worth stopping? I am most interested in whether I can reach the viewpoint from the upper circuit that shows an overview of the lower lakes (the iconic photograph that is on most websites). Or do I need more time to reach that viewpoint? I read through the various hiking circuits (which range from 2 to 8 hours) on the website for Plitvice Lakes National Park, but I cannot determine which route would lead me to that viewpoint. Because my time is limited, I don’t need to ride the electric boat or the panoramic train if they don’t save time or lead me to where I really want to go. I wish that I had a whole day to spend in the park, but I do not, so my question is whether it is worth stopping at all for such a short time. If all I will see in 2 hours are a few smaller waterfalls from ground level, I might just skip it, but if I can see that gorgeous “overhead” shot of several lakes and waterfalls, I will gladly make the effort. Thanks!

I don't remember, but I just checked our Croatia pictures, the "iconic" one you are describing is almost at the end of the Plitvice Lakes series, so it makes be believe you might not be able to get there and back in 2 hrs (we spent a full day at the lakes).
But hopefully someone else with a more recent experience might know better.

Is the two hour limit self-imposed or does it come from the need to take a public bus?

If self-imposed, you really ought to reconsider.

If you have to catch a bus, maybe someone can add more to this: the chain of lakes form a kind of gorge. Most of us start at the top and walk down the chain gently. When you get to the bottom, you either turn around and walk back the way you came OR you walk up a steep trail interspersed with steps to the top.

I can't say I know the view you describe, but if it is closer to the bottom end of the gorge, it might be quicker to walk in that way. People do. It is not a one-way trail.

You can get to that viewpoint of the lower lakes from the entrance #1 in very little time. Right after you enter the park you can see that view.

With two hours you could go down to that part of the lakes and back up, as well. You don't need to go to the boat or the tram, just see the view from up top and then go down and explore as much as you can before heading back up.