Hiking Krasnaya Polyana. Outdoor guide to Sochi and Krasnaya Polyana One-day tours from Krasnaya Polyana
A little history...
In Soviet times, the city of Sochi was practically synonymous with seaside holidays. And prestigious. There was neither Turkey nor Egypt then... Holidays in Sochi were a certain indicator of the standard of living. The only alternative was Crimea.
We went to Sochi and its surroundings not only for the sea, it was also a very party place, where all kinds of artists constantly came and gave concerts. People went on excursions and to buy inexpensive fruit.
In parallel with this, Krasnaya Polyana mountain tourism already took place as an active form of recreation. Even in the first half of the last century (1930-1950s), tourist camps were set up in Krasnaya Polyana in the summer at the sanatorium named after. J. Fabritius. Stationary tents for tourists were placed on wooden floors. Active recreation in alpine camps and camp sites with participation in difficult hikes in wild places was considered the lot of the elite, an exciting and prestigious activity. Thanks to the state for campaigning and promoting the romance of camping life. It was believed that campaigns created a sense of collectivism and provided excellent skills necessary for Soviet people. By the way, if you believe the statistics, it turns out that in the Soviet Union more than 9 million people regularly participated in tourist clubs and sections! I wonder how many there are now... This means that the number of all kinds of hikes is in the hundreds of thousands. And this was when the equipment for tourism did not know either membranes or vibrams... it was heavy and of little functionality. The main routes of that time: the transition from Krasnaya Polyana through Engelmanov Polyany and Lake Kardyvach to Abkhazia, to Lake Ritsa; hiking along the Pseashkho ridges to the Kholodny camp; according to Aishkho; passages to the sea.
Until 1993, having completed a hike from this camp site, one could receive the title “Tourist of the USSR” and receive the corresponding badge. Nowadays you can get many wonderful photos as a souvenir and 100,500 likes on social networks.
During perestroika, a lot of good things were lost... however, let’s not talk about the sad things. What does Sochi mean to the current generation? For most people (and not only in Russia), this city is directly associated with the past Olympics, while Krasnaya Polyana itself has become synonymous with Russian ski holidays. All this is true, the city has changed a lot, and the number of ski tourists in the last season simply went through the roof. But in the summer the mountains do not disappear; on the contrary, in the summer, as well as in spring and autumn, they reveal themselves in all their glory. Fantastic views, unique nature, comfortable climate - an ideal place for mountain tourism.
Where to begin? Where to go? We bring to your attention a small guide from a resident of the city of Sochi, a fan of mountain tourism, and part-time our marketing director Dmitry Kovinov.
But first, a few words about why you should go to Sochi:
- Mild climate. There are not many places in the world where the mountain hiking season stretches for more than 6 months a year. In addition to the mountains themselves, on the coast of Krasnaya Polyana you can find many waterfalls and fascinating gorges.
- Nice weather. If you compare mountain tourism in Krasnaya Polyana with such regions as the Sayans, Central Caucasus, Altai, Kamchatka, Polar Urals or Khibiny, those rare rains (although there are prolonged ones) and snowfalls may seem like manna from heaven.
- Versatility. Krasnaya Polyana is perfect not only for classic mountain and hiking trips of varying difficulty. There is also a place for fans of rock climbing and via ferrata routes, as well as rafting, canyoning, mountain biking and even bungee jumping! The Sky Park alone is worth it.
- Excellent infrastructure. The Olympics left behind a good legacy. A new railway from the airport and train station in Adler or Sochi will take you to Krasnaya Polyana in an hour, and excellent trails and equipped shelters allow you to walk in the mountains in comfort and enjoy the beauty of nature. The Moscow-Adler plane will cost you about 6,000 rubles round trip (the main thing is to choose your tickets on time).
- Safety. Unfortunately, in the minds of many Russians the Caucasus is not associated with the most peaceful place to be. However, the population of the Krasnaya Polyana region is very different from the Central Caucasus. Most of the population of Sochi are Armenians, adherents of the Christian faith, while the village of Krasnaya Polyana itself is historically occupied by Greek and Estonian settlers.
- Low height The mountains of Krasnaya Polyana may seem like disadvantages to fans of technical mountaineering and ice climbing, but this makes the region extremely attractive for hikers, of whom the majority are still present.
- Variety of routes. Sochi is one of the longest cities in the World. Its length is more than 100 km. Can you imagine how much space there is? But nearby there is also Abkhazia, and the gorge of the Mzymta River...
The best hiking routes in Krasnaya Polyana and the surrounding Sochi:
We'll start with the shortest hikes and move on to the longest. For better orientation, we will indicate the approximate route time, taking into account the road from the center of Sochi and back. 
A walk through the relict forest along a beautiful equipped trail. We offer you a small (1 hour) and a large ring (2-3 hours). Both routes are accessible to absolutely everyone, regardless of skill level. No special “hiking” clothing or equipment is required, just a T-shirt and shorts are enough, it is advisable to wear sports shoes, but this is not a prerequisite. Bring a backpack with food (there are no cafes along the route). On hot summer days you can swim in the canyon of the Khosta River; bring a swimsuit.
This route should become a must to get acquainted with the nature of the “coastal climate zone”. Thanks to the well-maintained routes and cleanliness, the Yew-Boxwood Grove is truly the best place to get to know the nature of Sochi. Getting to the entrance to the grove, which, by the way, is located on the territory of the Caucasian Biosphere Reserve, is very easy.
- Duration: from 1 hour.
- Length: from 1.5 to 5 km.
- Highest point of the route: 200 m.
- From the center of Sochi and back - from 3 hours.
- How to get there: 15 minutes from the Sputnik bus stop in Khosta.
Zmeykovsky waterfalls are unique in that even in the hottest summer months there is enough water in the Dikarka River for you to admire their extraordinary five (!), albeit small, waterfalls that are not similar to each other. The Dikarka River originates from springs and therefore these waterfalls, unlike many others located in the vicinity of Sochi, do not dry out in the summer! Those who like to eat delicious food in nature will love the cozy restaurant near the lower waterfall.
It’s worth remembering the climate here; even in the depths of winter, Sochi is quite green.
In order to see Zmeykovsky waterfalls you do not need any special tourist equipment. If there has been no heavy rain in recent days, then you can safely ride in ordinary “city” clothes. Along the right bank of the river there is a dirt road from which beautiful views of the river and waterfalls open. In some places there are benches and gazebos. The length of the section of the river where the waterfalls are located is less than a kilometer, and the elevation gain is small. So you can see all the waterfalls in an hour to an hour and a half (half an hour to an hour up to the fifth waterfall and 15 minutes down to the parking lot). Under the first waterfall there is a large restaurant-cafe complex.
- How to get there: 10 minutes walk from the stop of minibus or bus No. 120 (runs from Sochi railway station through Matsesta to the village of Izmailovka (Chaysovkhoz)). Ask the driver to stop at the waterfalls.
- The walk through five waterfalls and back takes about an hour and a half.
Beshenka River
Just one hour of a leisurely walk from the center of Krasnaya Polyana, and you find yourself in another world filled with the sounds of a mountain forest. An excellent option for a small picnic in nature. A good option at any time of the year. In February-March, it is worth bringing snowshoes with you, as there can be quite a lot of snow!
From the center of Krasnaya Polyana and back - 3 hours.
Start of the route: Krasnaya Polyana village, Achishkhovskaya street, from the end of the asphalt road. 
A cascade of three waterfalls in the picturesque canyon of the Agura River is one of the most popular places of pilgrimage for summer tourists, but these waterfalls are most beautiful in autumn and spring, when there is more water and fewer tourists! If you want to complicate the route, you can plan to climb Mount Akhun (663 m), take a tent (and all the accompanying equipment) and spend the night under the stars.
A walk along the bottom of the picturesque gorge of the Agura River takes from an hour to four, depending on what and how you want to see. If you are short on time, a minimum plan will suit you - take a taxi to the beginning of the park and walk to the third waterfall, and then return back. An hour and a half is enough for this, the length of such a route is about four kilometers. But if you have enough time, you can slowly climb past all three Agur waterfalls to the Eagle Rocks (there are gazebos and benches with views of the mountains and the sea, and even a small stall with drinks and snacks) and go down the dirt road to Matsesta.
It is worth considering that the walk takes place among waterfalls in the gorge, so the sun gets there to a limited extent - early in the morning and in the evening it is quite dark. So, if you are planning to do a good photo shoot, a tripod is highly advisable.
This place is very popular for excursions, especially on weekends, so if possible, choose a weekday. What to take? There is no need to take food; you can buy water and something for a snack at the kiosk. In summer it can be very hot, although the water always gives you some coolness and if you consider yourself a cold person, you can take an extra jacket. It is enough to have sneakers on your feet.
- From the center of Sochi and back - 3 hours.
- How to get there: 20 minutes on foot from the Sputnik stop (any minibus in the direction of Sochi - Adler).
- To see all three waterfalls you will need at least 2-3 hours.
- Length: 2 to 10 km.
- Highest point of the route: 379 m (Agur Rocks), 663 m (Mount Akhun).
Khmelevskie Lakes
A walk from the Khmelevsky Lakes to the Achipsinsky Waterfalls and back is a great option for those who want to take a walk in the mountains. The only negative is the cost of transportation to the Khmelevsky Lakes. Jeeping in UAZs - from 4,000 rubles per car. You can arrange a pick-up right at the Rosa Khutor station square. In addition to summer, this option is suitable for both autumn and winter.
- From the center of Krasnaya Polyana and back - from 3 to 6 hours.
- How to get there: from Krasnaya Polyana or Rosa Khutor by jeep to Khmelevskie Lakes.
- Passes: not required(?).
Dry and wet canyons on the Psakho River are one of the most popular routes along the unique river canyons of Sochi. Sheer walls, waterfalls, thickets of boxwood and Colchis ivy and waterfalls make this route one of the most popular.
- From the center of Sochi and back - from 3 to 6 hours.
- How to get there: from Adler by bus No. 121 to the Kamenka 2 stop.
Vorontsovskaya Cave is the largest cave within the Greater Sochi. Labyrinths, narrow manholes, spacious grottoes and underwater siphons can be passed through as a sport, using alpine equipment, or you can simply take a walk along the tourist route. The temperature inside the cave is about +9°C, so dress warmly! Paid entrance.
- From the center of Sochi and back - from 4 to 12 hours.
- How to get there: 20 minutes walk from the village of Vorontsovka.
By some miracle, not included in all sorts of Sochi tourist guides, the waterfalls are not at all large, but amazing. The path to the upper waterfall constantly winds from one bank of the Svanidze stream to the other, in places dangerously approaching the cliff. Especially good in winter!
- From the center of Sochi and back - 4 hours.
- Start of the route: final stop of bus No. 102.
Hiking to the Bzerpinsky cornice with climbing Mount Tabunaya is our favorite weekend mountain hike. You can climb to a height of 1,600 meters by cable car, and in just two hours (of constant uphill climbing) you can find yourself in the area of alpine meadows. Views of the surrounding peaks, blooming rhododendron and the Krasnaya Polyana gorge are guaranteed right under your feet! This is probably the most beautiful one-day route in the vicinity of Krasnaya Polyana. You can walk and swim in a small mountain lake a little further from the Pseashkho pass. From the houses on the Bzerpinsky cornice to the lake it’s about an hour one way.
The route passes through the territory of the Caucasian Biosphere Reserve. A pass is required (obtained at the Aviary Complex, which is located a 5-minute drive from the center of Rosa Khutor (taxi drivers charge 400 rubles). Plan food and water. There is water on the route only at the Bzerpinsky cornice. There is no water until it (you need to carry it with yourself).
- There is an equipped camp on the Bzerpinsky cornice. There are houses, sheds, tables, a toilet, and an attic on the house.
- From the center of Krasnaya Polyana and back - from 6 to 9 hours (can be extended).
- How to get there: Pikhtovaya Polyana station of the Laura-Gazprom cable car to Rosa Khutor (Krasnaya Polyana).
- Passes: pass from the reserve.
Achishkho is the most accessible peak of Krasnaya Polyana, from which a fantastic panorama of the Black Sea coast, the inaccessible three-thousanders of the Greater Caucasus and the Olympic ski slopes opens. Formally, there are two “classic” routes for climbing Achishkho - through the Khmelevskie Lakes or through the upper reaches of the Beshenka River and then through the “Kamen” and the weather station. But there is also a less popular route - through the Greek spur. The trail runs along a sharp ridge in places and extreme caution must be used in bad weather. However, this route may be interesting for experienced hikers.
- From the center of Krasnaya Polyana and back - from 6 to 10 hours.
- How to get there: the route starts from the “Vertodrom” bus stop in the center of the village of Krasnaya Polyana.
- The climb to the top and back usually takes two days with an overnight stay at the Achipsinsky waterfalls, but athletes will make it in one. But if you’re not in a hurry, you can walk for three days!
- Since 2/3 of the mountains surrounding Krasnaya Polyana and Sochi are located on the territory of the Caucasus State Biosphere Reserve and in close proximity to the state border with Abkhazia, for most multi-day hikes you will need to obtain two passes - from the reserve (done on the spot) and from the border guards ( documents must be submitted at least one month in advance). In addition, you need to understand that you can only walk in the reserve along permitted routes (this is important!) and not at any time of the year (at the beginning of summer and autumn, the reserve is closed “for registration”. Scientists observe the animals and count them. All routes , listed above, are included in the list of allowed routes.
- In mid-June, routes passing through the territory of the Caucasian Biosphere Reserve are usually opened for tourists. Before this, you will not be able to obtain a pass to enter the reserve. The exact dates change every year and need to be clarified directly with the reserve. The reserve's website is kgpbz.ru.
For ideas for other trips, see our blog in the “Travel Ideas” and “Trekking” sections. Also on our blog you can find a lot of useful tips on choosing equipment and caring for it.
About the author: Dmitry Kovinov is a traveler and photographer, striving for ever new discoveries and acquaintances, and, part-time, also the marketing director of the largest outdoor equipment store “Sport-Marathon”, combining work and hobby. If you list the places he visited, you can create a separate review - the Caucasus, Europe, Asia, America, Siberia. Reading the reviews of such a person, you can trust his taste and kindly envy him. Dmitry's personal blog -
Hiking along ecological trails, implying responsible visits to corners of nature untouched by man.
Hiking routes in the mountains of Krasnaya Polyana
In the summer season, our Gorki Gorod resort offers walking eco-routes for traveling to hard-to-reach places in the Krasnaya Polyana mountains. Pedestrian tourist routes are located at an altitude of +960 m to +2200 m above sea level.
Alpine meadows hidden behind the hills, where snow-white rhododendron blooms, Medvezhiy and Polikarya waterfalls are now accessible to our guests thanks to equipped trails.
Do you need special equipment and physical training?
Without special equipment, you can admire the views of the Main Caucasus Range by taking a cable car. A breathtaking panorama of Krasnaya Polyana and mountain peaks will open from the highest point of our resort from the Black Pyramid peak (+2375 m).
Excursions to waterfalls and walks among high-mountain flowering meadows do not require serious physical training and are quite accessible to any healthy person. Such simple walks in the mountains can be taken by the whole family, even with small children.
Before walking, read the map and description of the route, which indicates the difficulty and time of completion. At one time you can go through several routes, for example, take a walk in the Circus-2 zone, a relict forest and walk to the Polikarya waterfall. The route through the alpine meadows can be combined with a walk to the Medvezhiy waterfall in the Circus-2 zone.
How to get on the route?
To climb the eco-routes, you must purchase a walking ticket (ski pass) for the cable car to the corresponding mark at the resort ticket office.
Visiting eco-routes is free.Opening hours: 10:00 – 18:00
Before visiting eco-routes, it is strongly recommended that you read the rules that are posted on our website.
You will need: comfortable trekking or sports shoes, trekking poles for more difficult routes, sunglasses, hat, sun cream, flask or bottle of drinking water.
Attached files
- pdf Rules for organizing excursions with children (kindergartens, schools, boarding schools, educational centers)
- pdf Rules for visiting and behavior on eco-routes
Eco-trail “Alpine meadows” +2200 m
Height:+1900 m / +2200 m
Length: 3000 m
Height difference: 150 m
Travel time: 1,5 hour
Complexity: high
The Alpine meadows area is part of the Sochi National Park. In addition to the Red Book plants, along the route you can find ancient atsanguars, which we inherited from the early Middle Ages. These structures made of unprocessed stones served as corrals for the livestock that mountain tribes grazed here. On the map of the resort there are signs with the location of the atsanguars.
To get to the starting point of the hike, you first need to take the cable car to +2200 m above sea level. Further, from the upper station of the cable car, follow the signs “eco route: Alpine meadows”. It is necessary to take into account the weather conditions and take warm clothes and waterproof windbreakers with you. There are two gazebos along the route where you can rest, have a snack or shelter from bad weather.
A walk along the full route to the gazebo on the Aibga ridge and back takes from one and a half to two hours, depending on the time you spend resting between transitions. In addition to this time, allow about an hour of total time for the ascent and descent of the cable car.
Attention on the route! You will be informed about the end of the route by signs warning you about the danger of going further and the rules for staying in the border zone (in accordance with the requirements of the Order of the FSB of Russia dated October 15, 2012 No. 515 “On approval of the Rules of the Border Regime”, staying in the border zone for citizens of the Russian Federation is only possible if you have a passport. Foreign citizens have the right to stay in the border zone only if they have a passport and pass).
Eco-route “Bear Waterfall” +2050 m
Height:+1970 m / +2050 m
Length: 500 m
Height difference: 80 m
Travel time: 0.5 hours
Complexity: average
The eco-route to the Medvezhiy waterfall is located near the unique climatic zone Circus-2. You can see the waterfall only in summer, when the snow melts. Melt water is the basis of a natural object. In the route area there is a beautiful valley of rhododendrons. The route is accessible from June to October
During your walk, you will get to know rare plant species, stunning panoramic views and clean mountain air.
On the way, a unique view of the Main Caucasian Range opens up, and blooming rhododendron against the backdrop of alpine meadows will serve as a beautiful backdrop for your photos.
Eco-trail “Relic forest” +1460 m
Height:+1400 m / +1500 m
Length: 900 m
Height difference: 50 m
Travel time: 0.5 hours
Complexity: average
The route passes through the mid-mountain zone of beech forests. Clean air and cozy gazebos for relaxation with panoramic views of the mountains. Here you can find endemic plants of the Western Caucasus that cannot be found anywhere else on our planet. Many of them are listed in the Red Book of Russia.
There are various bonuses here that you can stick around for.
The first surprise is the blackberry bushes. For those who decided to diversify their everyday life with a walk, the Gorki Gorod resort stores these juicy berries in almost every corner of the forest in the summer. They are tasty, clean, and most importantly healthy. But you need to be careful: blackberry bushes have thorns (it’s better to take a windbreaker with you), and they like to grow on a slope, so you need to watch your step so as not to fall.
The second bonus is the work of man. So that the townspeople would not get bored walking through the forest, gazebos were made for them to dine in, and wide stumps were left on which to rest. The difficulty of this walking route is easy, accessible to the most hardened office workers.
And another bonus - beautiful photographs not only from the relict forest, but also against the backdrop of the mountains, or even from a bird's eye view from the lift cabin.
Eco-route “Polikarya Waterfall” +1450 m
Height:+1450 m / +1600 m
Length: 800 m from K-13
Height difference: 50 m
Travel time: 15-20 min one way
Complexity: simple
Polikarya Waterfall, colloquially referred to as “pants” for its bifurcated shape, is the highest waterfall in Sochi and the Krasnodar Territory, and one of the highest in Europe. The height of the waterfall is approximately 70 m. It is located in the zone of subalpine meadows at an elevation between +1450 m and +1600 m vertically and to the left of the K-13 cable car, on the slope of the Aibga ridge. Nearby there is a snowfield that does not melt almost all year round. Even in June-July there is snow near the Polikarya waterfall. The Rzhanoy stream, which forms the Polikarya waterfall, flows out of the snowfield in Circus-3 and then flows into the Mzymta River.
Eco-route “Rhododendron Valley” +2370 m
Height:+2300 m / +2050 m
Length: 800 m
Height difference: 325 m
Travel time: down 30 minutes
Complexity: average
Rhododendron is surrounded by myths and legends. According to one of them, the forest elves, fleeing a fire in the forest at the foot of the mountains, left their native places, climbing higher and higher on the slopes. There they spent a long time looking for a plant - a home for the night. All the plants refused to shelter the elves, citing the fact that they had already become an abode for other animals and sheltered them under their crown.
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The elves were angry with the plants, and even more angry with the animals that were ahead of them. And only the rhododendron bush hospitably received the elves. For the fact that the plant gave shelter to magical creatures, the elves generously thanked it not only with luxurious flowers, but also with its poisonous properties, so that the bush would not serve for the benefit of animals.
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And we have a great opportunity to admire this beauty while going up or down the “Rhododendron Valley” eco-trail.
Hiking route to the Black Pyramid peak (+2375 m)
Height:+2320 m / +2375 m
Length: 300 m
Travel time: 40 minutes
Complexity: average
For guests who prefer an active summer holiday in the mountains, we have a picturesque walking route to the highest point of the resort - the Black Pyramid peak of the Aibga ridge.
From the peak of 2375 m there is a stunning view of the Mzymta River valley, the Olympic sites of the mountain cluster, and in clear weather you can see the sea. We can say with confidence that this is the best observation deck in the Krasnaya Polyana mountains.
The length of the route is 300 meters. The route takes 40 minutes. Difficulty - medium. Movement along the route is carried out accompanied by a Tirol club instructor wearing a climbing harness, a protective helmet, and along laid safety ropes. Children over 10 years old can only enter if accompanied by their parents. Comfortable clothing and sports shoes are required to complete the route.
Cost of guide support and equipment: 600 ₽.
Start of the route: from the upper station of the chairlift.
Instructor phone number: 8 938 865 93 93 .
Rules for visiting eco-routes
Walking along ecological trails implies a responsible visit to corners of nature untouched by man.
- Collecting plants and wild herbs is prohibited.
- Lighting fires is prohibited.
- It is prohibited to leave garbage on the walking trails.
- Driving outside of marked trails is prohibited.
- It is prohibited for children under 15 years of age to be present unaccompanied by adults.
- Eco-trails are located in a high-mountain zone - we kindly ask that persons who have health contraindications to this type of physical activity refrain from walking.
- The consumption of alcoholic beverages and being in a state of intoxication (alcohol, drugs, or other) is prohibited.
- If weather conditions worsen, you must immediately return to the cable car station.
- Walking in the evening is strictly prohibited.
Remember when visiting the Circus-2 zone that the last descent time from K-5 is until 17:30, and on K-4 until 18:00.
Route
Winter is in full swing, and your legs are asking for a hike. Unfortunately, this time of year is not very suitable for long routes, and not only because the route takes longer due to deep snow. In winter, tourists in the mountains face mortal danger - avalanches. On some trails, avalanche-prone areas can be avoided, but not everywhere.
But there are also undoubted advantages: winter changes the landscape so much that a hike in summer and a hike in winter along the same route are two different hikes. You simply won’t recognize places you’ve known well since childhood in winter! But the main thing is that only in winter can the sky in the mountains be so blue, and the air so transparent and clean.
Krasnaya Polyana
My favorite Krasnaya Polyana. I remember it as a small village surrounded by majestic ridges, which could be reached from Sochi by helicopter or along a narrow serpentine along the stormy Mzymta. Now this is one of the most fashionable and elegant ski resorts in the world (it is also considered expensive, but I would argue with this statement).
The founding date of the village on the stele located at the entrance to Krasnaya Polyana is 1869, but in fact, a large village of mountain tribes existed here from time immemorial.
The village itself and its surroundings have repeatedly played an important role in history. On May 21, 1864, the Caucasian War ended here. And in 1942, at the Pseashkho and Aishkho passes, our troops stopped the German mountain division “Edelweiss” in the battle for the Caucasus.
The mountains here attract not only skiers and snowboarders. There are stunningly beautiful places here - lakes, alpine meadows, rocks, glaciers and everything that is dear to the heart of a tourist. There are easy routes that are well suited for beginners and families with children. Many peaks are accessible for climbing without special mountaineering training.
How to get there
Our journey starts from the Laura-Gazprom cable car, which is located 5 km from the village.
Getting to Laura is not difficult: buses from Sochi and Adler run from 6 am to 9 pm approximately every 30 minutes (about 250 rubles from Sochi), the stop is located directly at the ski lift. Travel time is more than 2 hours. It is better to leave on one of the first buses, because upon arrival you will have to go to the reserve office to get a pass. This will take about another hour.
The reserve office is located in the open-air complex (easy to find by following the signs), open from 9 a.m., and from Laura to it you need to walk along the river (on the opposite side of the Grand Hotel Polyana) for about 20 minutes.
The cost of the pass is 300 rubles per person per day.
The trail is periodically closed during the winter, so it's best to call the reserve to find out what rules are currently in effect.
The easiest way is to come by car, go to the reserve, and leave it in the parking lot near the ski lift for the duration of the hike (500 rubles per day).
If you travel by train, it costs more (from Sochi about 450 rubles). From the station to the cable car you will have to walk for about 20 minutes. The first train arrives at 8.47, and this is later than necessary, because you still need to go to the reserve office to get passes. If you buy passes in advance, you can immediately go to the new 3S cable car and climb to Pikhtovaya Polyana.
To climb you need to buy an excursion ticket. Price 1100 rubles (more expensive on weekends and holidays). The cable car runs from 9.00.
So, one early morning we went to Krasnaya Polyana for snow and beautiful scenery. We had to go to the top of Mount Tabunnaya (2351 m) in the area of the Pseashkho massif.
When we went to Tabunnaya in winter for the last time, the new cable car from Alpiki-Service did not yet exist, and we had to climb from the Psekhako plateau (1450 m). Now the lift to Pikhtovaya Polyana saves a lot of time and effort. And during our very first hike, the trails were just starting to be built, and we climbed on foot from the river, from the very bottom, gaining a total of almost 1800 m in altitude per day.
From the Psekhako plateau we went down along the rope tow, then went up to the construction site of the biathlon complex. The road along which construction equipment drove was a mess of snow and mud, so we strapped on snowshoes and dived into the forest.
We reached Pikhtovaya Polyana (1600 m) quite quickly. The weather was excellent - bright sun and calm. From where the upper cable car station is now located, the trailhead is just a stone's throw away. However, in winter the trail is a big word, because everything is covered with snow a couple of meters thick. But it’s not at all difficult to guess, since the path goes along an obvious spur, and if you just go up all the time, you’ll come out exactly where you need to go.
We climbed through a beautiful fir forest to the Bear Gate (1890 m), where the territory of the Caucasian Nature Reserve begins. The forest is already over, and you can enjoy the mountain scenery without interference. They usually arrange a short rest here - there is a table and benches. But this is in the summer. And now only the tips of the dwarf birch trees are visible, which grow in the area between the fir forest and the alpine.
From here the trail turns left and traverses along the slope of Tabunnaya to the Bzerpa cornice - one of the most beautiful places in the reserve. In the summer, alpine flowers bloom there, and now there are avalanches. Therefore, after taking a rest, we begin to climb the narrow ridge straight into the forehead. The ridge becomes steeper and steeper, and we walk the last meters taking off our snowshoes.
Having climbed up, we find a suitable place, dig places for tents and set up camp. As a reward for an active day, we get an amazing purple sunset.
The next morning, after having breakfast with delicious porridge (and everything is delicious in the mountains), we run lightly to the top of Tabunnaya. Visibility – 360 degrees. Incredible panorama. The four peaks of Aibga, Turya Mountains and the beautiful Agepsta on one side, on the other - the majestic Chugush, Vorobyov Peak, in front are the sharp peaks of Pseasheh, below is the beautiful valley of the Pseashkho Pass, behind are the low mountain ranges that separate Krasnaya Polyana from the coast. The peaks of the Abkhazian mountains can be seen in the distance.
We packed up camp and headed back. We walked for a while, but then, when the slope became gentler, we gave up, sat down on our heels and slid down to the benches in no time. Descending through the forest was more difficult - every now and then we fell into the loose snow even on snowshoes, but we still reached Pikhtovaya Polyana quickly. A little more and we are on Psekhako.
The lift that takes you to Pikhtovaya Polyana is open until 16.30, and it is better not to be late for it. If suddenly this does happen, there is no big problem - you can walk to the cable car on Psekhako, where the slopes for evening skiing are located, so the lift is open until 23.00.
Equipment
Of course, the basic tourist kit is a backpack, a tent, a flashlight, a sleeping bag (necessarily warm, it can be down to -20°C at the top), KLMN (mug-spoon-bowl-knife), mat-mat, winter clothes (preferably water- and windproof ), good warm trekking boots.
It is advisable to have two sets of thermal underwear: a thin one for moving (it’s very hot in the sun, and you have to take off your jacket every now and then), a thick one for spending the night. Shoe covers are convenient (we call them “flashlights”) - these are things that are worn over trousers and cover the leg from foot to knee, used to prevent snow from getting into boots and under trousers.
Required: snowshoes or ski tours, sunglasses with the maximum degree of protection (snow in the sun, even without it, is really blinding), sunscreen with the highest factor (you can burn to blisters - the sun is already bright at altitude, plus reflection from the snow ), snow shovel, burner and gas.
It’s better to take a supply of food and gas - if the weather suddenly worsens, the descent from Tabunnaya to Medvezhya Gate in poor visibility becomes dangerous, you may have to wait it out.
Since the hike is only for two days, take a bottle of red wine and spices with you: mulled wine at the summit is the best mulled wine!
Winter in the mountains is wonderful, and I sincerely wish everyone to enjoy it to the fullest, but always remember to be safe.
Krasnaya Polyana is one of the most accessible and civilized places in Russia for real mountain hiking. Moreover, you don’t have to go mountaineering: you can choose a simple, but very picturesque route that can be easily conquered in a weekend. On fine days the weather is comfortable. Getting there is very convenient. And at the resorts of Krasnaya Polyana you can buy everything you need, as well as choose a guide and issue the necessary permits to the reserve and border areas.
"To Lake Kardyvach"
The route is for two to four days.
Route start: Engelmanov Polyany, where you can get there by SUV. The road from Krasnaya Polyana is 20 kilometers, travel time is about two hours.
Distance: from 18 kilometers per day.
Climb: 600−2500 meters.
When to go: from July to September; in June there is still snow here.
Important: Lake Kardyvach is located not only in the reserve (you need to pay an entrance fee), but also in the border area (you need to issue a pass, which may take several days).Lake Kardyvach is a beautiful place in the Caucasian Biosphere Reserve, located in the mountains above Krasnaya Polyana at an altitude of 1838 meters and surrounded by fir and birch forests, alpine meadows, springs and waterfalls. For most of the year, Kardyvach is hidden under ice and snow and does not warm up above +12 degrees, but in the summer it changes its color several times from green to blue.
The length of the route from the Engelman Glades along the Mzymta is 18 kilometers in one direction along a comfortable, well-trodden and marked forest path. Wow places for radial walks are lakes Sineokoe (distance - three and a half kilometers) and Upper Kardyvach (four kilometers). There are reserve cordons nearby for overnight stays and there is no need to carry water with you, but you will still need sleeping bags, foam and food. You can go on a hike on your own, but the reserve is more happy with organized groups with guides.
“From Chernorechye to Krasnaya Polyana: a hike through the mountains to the Black Sea”
Itinerary for five days.
Distance: 55 kilometers.
Route start: Chernorechye cordon, which can be reached by car.
When to go: from June to October.
Important: Permits will be required to visit the reserve. A pass to the border area is not needed, but you must have a Russian passport with you.Legendary route No. 8 of the Caucasian Biosphere Reserve through the Main Caucasus Range and its two passes - the Small Balkans and Aishkho. Most of the route runs along the valley of the Malaya Laba River. There are no mobile communications or organized camps here, but there are cordons for overnight stays. You will have to carry camping equipment and provisions with you. Along the route there are not only amazing natural beauties, but also monuments to soldiers of the Great Patriotic War. The route is linear, and once you start it, you have to finish it.
The first day is a hike from the Chernorechye cordon to the 3rd Company cordon through beech and fir forests.
Second day— crossing the Small Balkans pass along picturesque cliffs to the Umpyr cordon.
Day three— the path to the “30th kilometer” cordon through the southern forest with a large number of rivers, many of which will have to be forded.
Day four— hike to the Chistaya River with a view of the mountain and the Tsakhvoa glacier with a height of 3345 meters.
Day five- through the Aishkho pass (2401 meters - this is the highest point of the entire route).
"To the Clean River"
Itinerary for three days.
Distance: up to 16 kilometers per day, total length - 40 kilometers.
Route start: the end of the asphalt road to Rosa Khutor, from where seven kilometers by SUV through the Paslukh cordon to an altitude of 1800 meters.
Important: It is mandatory to have a Russian passport.
When to go: from July to October.Part of the previous route from Krasnaya Polyana to the Chistaya River through the Aishkho Pass and back is a popular option for a memorable three-day hike.
The first day— crossing the tall Aishkho is not easy, but it is accessible to healthy and relatively athletic people. Spending the night in tents is most successful at the confluence of the Malaya Laba and Chistaya rivers.
Second day— radial walks to waterfalls and viewing platforms.
Day three- the way back.
"To Mount Achishkho"
Itinerary for two days.
Distance: 12−15 kilometers.
Height difference: about 400 meters.
Route start: at the “Heliport” stop in the village of Krasnaya Polyana.
When to go: from mid-May to October.
Important: A pass to the Caucasian Biosphere Reserve is required.There are two ways to Mount Achishkho - through the Khmelevsky Lakes or through the Beshenka River and the weather station on Kruglaya Polyana. As a rule, tourists cover this route in one day without making any trekking. However, it’s still worth spending the night at the Achipsinskiye waterfalls or Lake Mirror.
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For our parents, children and grandmothers, Sochi has always been a popular destination for a July-August beach holiday. For my peers, Sochi and Krasnaya Polyana are the places where the Winter Olympics took place in 2014. For me, this is, first of all, the crazy beauty of nature and mountains. So beautiful that a few years ago my wife and I left Moscow and now live in Sochi. In the five years since moving, I have already made more than 70 hikes in the Caucasus and decided that I have the moral right to make something like a “Guide” to this fantastic region for any tourist and outdoor enthusiast! On this large page (please be careful and patient), I have collected all the basic information for planning and organizing an independent hike in the outskirts of Sochi and Krasnaya Polyana.
Let me start with what attracted us personally to this place so much that we moved here to live?
Why Sochi and Krasnaya Polyana?
- Mild climate and super ecology. Despite the fact that in the winter months there are often prolonged rains on the coast, and snowfalls in the mountains, the climate here is, of course, much more comfortable for life than in my native Siberia, or in the Urals, or even in central Russia. There is no need to talk about the environment. There are no large industrial enterprises in Sochi, and daily morning sea and evening mountain breezes clean the city's air from exhaust gases.
- Long hiking season. The climate of these places allows you to go to the mountains for six months - from June to November!! And if you pay attention not only to the mountains, but also to the coast with its numerous waterfalls and gorges, then the hiking season becomes year-round!
- Huge opportunities for multi-sport. Those who love sports and mountains can find entertainment for every taste: classic hiking and mountain hiking, mountain biking, via feratta routes, rafting, canyoning and even bungee jumping!
- Excellent infrastructure. The new railway from the airport and train station in Adler or Sochi will take you to Krasnaya Polyana in an hour, and excellent trails and even the presence of mountain shelters and tent camps allow you to walk in the mountains in comfort, even with small children, and at the same time enjoy the beauty of nature. A plane from Moscow is also inexpensive compared to flights abroad (just buy in advance!).
- Safety. May the tolerants and cosmopolitans forgive me, Sochi and its surroundings are fundamentally different from other regions of the Caucasus. You can be sure that you will not have any hassles with the locals. The village of Krasnaya Polyana is historically populated by ethnic Greeks and Estonians, and Sochi by Armenians, who are known to profess Christianity, not Islam. The share of the Russian population here, in my opinion, is even greater in Moscow.
Minuses? From the point of view of “sports” tourism and mountaineering, the only disadvantage of the Krasnaya Polyana mountains is their low height. There are practically no serious glaciers or extended vertical walls here. Also, many are bothered by the fact that most of the Krasnaya Polyana mountains are located on the territory of the Caucasian Biosphere Reserve, which imposes certain difficulties with organizing hikes (more about them below), but in my opinion, the presence of the reserve is not a minus, but a plus. It’s scary to imagine what would happen to these beautiful mountains if they weren’t protected by law! As for the disadvantages of the city of Sochi in terms of a place to live, I personally want more direct flights not only to Moscow, but also abroad. And a couple or three embassies of European countries. Do not need anything else! But back to hiking, this is an outdoor guide after all!
5 Day Hiking Ideas All Year Round
Everyone who comes to Sochi for just a few days wants to see all the most interesting things. But how to do that? After all, the length of Sochi along the Black Sea coastline alone is more than 100 kilometers!! (by the way, one of the longest cities in the world), and if we add to this the gorge of the Mzymta River, in the upper reaches of which the village of Krasnaya Polyana is located with the new ski resorts Rosa Khutor, Gornaya Karusel and Gazprom-Laura "... And if we add to this the neighboring “friendly” Abkhazia.. How to manage everything?
To begin with, I will share a list of the TOP 5 easy and one-day routes that are available all year round - both winter and summer.
(1)
A walk through the relict forest along a beautiful equipped trail. Both routes are accessible to absolutely everyone, regardless of skill level. It is enough to wear sports shoes. A must have to get acquainted with the nature of the “coastal climate zone”. On hot summer days you can even swim in the canyon of the Khosta River!!
How to get there: 15 minutes from the Sputnik bus stop in Khosta.
Two circular routes - "Small Ring" (the walk will take approximately 1 hour) and "Big Ring" (from 2 to 4 hours).
(2)
Zmeykovsky waterfalls are unique in that even in the hottest summer months there is enough water in the Dikarka River for you to admire their extraordinary five (!), albeit small, waterfalls that are not similar to each other. Those who like to eat delicious food in nature will love the cozy restaurant near the lower waterfall.
How to get there: 10 minutes walk from the minibus or bus stop No. 120.
A walk through all five waterfalls and back will take from one and a half to three hours.
(3)
Walking towards the Orekhovsky waterfall is my favorite hiking option when you want to get some fresh air and take a break from the city. The route is not difficult - ordinary sneakers are enough equipment and is short - a walk to the waterfall and back can take a couple of hours! In addition, Orekhovsky waterfall is one of the highest waterfalls in Sochi.
From the center of Sochi and back - from 3 to 5 hours.
How to get there: by taxi or half an hour on foot from the city bus terminus.
(4)
A cascade of three waterfalls in the picturesque canyon of the Agura River is one of the most popular places of pilgrimage for summer tourists, but these waterfalls are most beautiful in autumn and spring, when there is more water and fewer tourists!
How to get there: 20 minutes walk from the Sputnik stop (any minibus in the direction Sochi - Adler)
The walk to the first large waterfall and back will take about 1.5 hours, if you go further with a climb to the Prometheus rocks for at least 2.5 - 3 hours.
(5)
By some miracle, not included in all sorts of tourist guides in Sochi, the waterfalls on the Svanidze stream are not at all large, but amazing. The path to the upper waterfall constantly winds from one bank of the Svanidze stream to the other, in places dangerously approaching the cliff. If you leave early, you can manage to get further, to the Azhek waterfalls!
Start of the route: final stop of bus #102.
From the final stop to the waterfalls and back - 4 hours.
ONE-DAY HIKES IN THE MOUNTAINS OF KRASNAYA POLYANA
The mountain hiking season in the vicinity of Krasnaya Polyana begins no earlier than mid-June, when, after the snow melts in the mountains, the reserve opens routes. The best time for hiking is July-August, the period of the most stable and warm weather. Once the snow cover settles, the routes are closed again. This usually happens in mid-October.
(1)
Climbing to the top of the Stone Pillar is the most accessible mountain walk in the vicinity of Krasnaya Polyana. From the top a majestic all-round panorama of the Western Caucasus mountains opens up, and if you're lucky, you can even see the Black Sea. Absolutely anyone can climb the Stone Pillar, since from the cable car station to the top there is an excellent trail (in fact, a dirt road), marked with signs. It's impossible to get lost.
Start of the route: the upper station of the Rosa Khutor cable car.
The walk from the upper cable car station takes about 1.5 to 3 hours.
(2)
Thanks to a specially equipped trail and a relatively small height difference for mountains, today this is perhaps the only alternative to the route to the top of the “Stone Pillar” among the simple walking routes in the Krasnaya Polyana mountains available to everyone.
How to get there: by cable car "Gornaya Karusel" from Estosadok (Krasnaya Polyana).
Timing: the hike itself takes from one and a half to three hours, plus another half hour for the ascent and descent on the cable car.
(3) Khmelevskie lakes - Achipsinskie waterfalls
A walk from the Khmelevskie Lakes to the Achipsinskiye Waterfalls is an excellent option for a full-day mountain walk. To gain time and save energy, you can go up to the Khmelevskie Lakes in jeeps (from 4,000 rubles per car, you can arrange a pick-up right at the Rosa Khutor station square).
Timing: from the end of the road to the nearby lakes and back - an hour and a half, to Lake Mirror and back - 4 hours, to the Achipsinsky waterfalls - at least 5-6 hours there and back.
(4) Bzerpinsky cornice
Hiking the Bzerpisky Cornice is my favorite weekend mountain hike. I even wrote a small guide! You can climb to a height of 1600 meters by cable car, and in just two hours (of constant uphill climbing) you can find yourself in the area of alpine meadows. Views of the surrounding peaks, blooming rhododendron and the Krasnaya Polyana gorge are guaranteed right under your feet!
How to get there: Pikhtovaya Polyana station of the Laura-Gazprom cable car to Rosa Khutor (Krasnaya Polyana)
From the upper station of the cable car and back - from 6 to 9 hours at a sports pace.
(5) Mount Achishkho
Achishkho is one of my favorite peaks in Krasnaya Polyana. I am also writing a hotel guide for this mountain. From the top there is a panoramic view of the Black Sea coast and a view of the Greater Caucasus.
To go to the top and back in one day requires either excellent physical training (a climb of almost 2000 vertical meters, and then the same amount of descent is not a task for the weak in body) or expensive, from 5,000 rubles per car to get to the Khmelevsky Lakes!
MULTI-DAY MOUNTAIN HIKES
Multi-day hiking trips with an overnight stay in a tent are an eternal classic. Only in this format can you truly take a break from the pressure of modern civilization and chat with friends live while sitting around an evening fire, and not through instant messengers and social networks, because there is practically no connection on such routes :)
If you are not ready to plan your own route, are not sure that you can correctly determine the path, or simply do not have your own tourist equipment, in the mountains of Krasnaya Polyana there is a unique opportunity for our country - to spend the night in the mountains in pre-installed tents of the Krasnaya Polyana Mountain Club or go with kids on unique trips combined with teaching tourism skills! And if you want, you can rent equipment from them and go on your own.
The hikes are listed in ascending order of duration and difficulty, starting with the easiest.
(1) Bzerpinsky cornice - Kholodny camp
If you are just dreaming of starting hiking and in the mountains in particular, a hike to the Bzerpinsky cornice is the best option for you. The equipped trail, the availability of rest areas, and the availability of cellular communications make this route as safe as possible for such an experience. And the views all around will make you rock. Just dress warmly, it’s cold in the mountains at night!
Start of the route: upper station of the Gazprom cable car
Duration: from 2 to 4 days.
(2)
Super popular place. Especially in the fall, when all the local photographers flock here. If you want to see something else besides the lake (climb the neighboring peaks) - plan for more days!
Start of the route: the village of Rosa Khutor or Engelmanov Polyany
The lake is located both on the territory of the Caucasian Biosphere Reserve and in the border zone. So you will have to arrange for passes in advance.
Duration: from 4 to 8 days.
(5) Abkhazia
Lately, Abkhazia has been my favorite region for multi-day hikes. At the height of summer, when the surroundings of Krasnaya Polyana are full of tourists, there is absolute silence here, no hassles with passes or border guards. Maximum scope for creativity in building multi-day routes!
Start of the route: Lake Ritsa or Gegsky waterfall
Duration: from 3 to 7 days.
IMPORTANT! Since 2/3 of the mountains surrounding Krasnaya Polyana and Sochi are located on the territory of the Caucasus State Biosphere Reserve and in close proximity to the state border with Abkhazia, for most multi-day hikes you will need to obtain two passes - from the reserve (done on the spot) and from the border guards ( documents must be submitted at least one month in advance). In addition, you need to understand that you can only walk in the reserve along permitted routes (this is important!) and not at any time of the year (at the beginning of summer and autumn, the reserve is closed “for registration”. Scientists observe the animals and count them. All routes , listed above are included in the list of permitted routes. Read more about passes below.
Map of outdoor attractions in Sochi and Krasnaya Polyana