The ridge reaches its highest height in the central part, known as the Bish-Iirdu mountain cluster, in which the main glaciation of the ridge is concentrated. The average height of the ridge here is about 3600 m, and the number of peaks exceeds 4000 m (Maashi-bashi - 4173 m, Aktru - 4075 m).

Severo-Chuisky ridge

In the central part of the ridge there are about 200 glaciers with a total area of ​​about 175 km², the largest is the Maashi glacier. The ridge is composed of clay shales, sandstones, limestones, and metamorphic rocks. A deeply dissected relief prevails. On the slopes up to an altitude of 2200-2400 meters there is taiga, higher - alpine meadows, tundra.Immediate settlements- Iodro,, Kurai, Chagan-Uzun, (old), Inegen.

The highest point of the Severo-Chuisky ridge is the Maashi-Bashi peak, 4173 meters high. The mountain is harsh both in appearance and in the difficulty of climbing to its top, but very beautiful. A picturesque panorama of Maashey-Bashi opens from the Nizhneshavlinsky pass (3100 meters, 1B grade). Another peak of the ridge, Mount Aktru-Bashi (4075 meters), rises to an altitude of over 4000 meters above sea level. Meth mountains, in height exceeding 3900 meters, andthe rise in the height of the ridge is 3500-3700 meters.

CL imat in the region of the Severo-Chuiskiy ridge is moderate, sharply continental. It is characterized by a large difference between day and night temperatures, cold winters and short warm summers. In the summer day, the temperature on the high-mountain lakes - Kamryu and others does not rise above +25 degrees, and at night it can drop to 0. Going on a trip in the mountains in summer, take warm clothes with you. The presence of a sweater, windbreaker, sports cap in a backpack can be invaluable. Take a raincoat with you, because the weather in the highlands is very unpredictable and can change in literally thirty minutes. Sunglasses and sunscreen will come in handy, especially for walks to the eternal snow, because the sun in the mountains is much more active on the skin than on the plain. In winter, the average temperature is -20 degrees.

V There are several major centers glaciation. First of all, this is the river valley. There are several glaciers here, the largest of which are the Left and Right Aktru, Dzhelo, and Maly Aktru glaciers. One of the largest glaciers in Altai is the Big Maashi glacier, which originates on the slopes of the Maashey-Bashi mountain. Its area is 14 sq. km. Be careful! Walking on large glaciers without insurance are dangerous, there are quite a few cracks that can be hidden under the snow.

View from the cordon "transshipment Aktru" to the Severo-Chuisky ridge in the morning

Pe The reals of the ridge are diverse, but they have one regularity - the northern and northeastern slopes of the passes are steeper, the takeoffs are higher. The difficulty categories of the passes are up to ZB, which determines the nature of the most serious passes - snow-ice. The height of the snow line on the northern slopes is about 2,900 meters, on the southern slopes - 3,100 meters and higher.

Or The ridge ridge is complex and consists of several roughly parallel ridges with a general west-east direction. They got their names from tourists: Chuisky, Shavlinsky, Karagemsky. Chuisky is located in the interfluve and Shavla, stretches for 60 km in latitudinal direction from the confluence and up to the Eshtykol plateau. The heights of the ridge grow from west to east, the highest point is 2925 m. There are paths along many river valleys and along the watershed. The watershed is swampy in places. The Shavlinsky ridge is located between the Shavla and Yungur valleys. Its height is about 2500 meters, to the east it rises, and glaciation appears on the ridge behind the right tributary of the Yungur River Kurunda. The forest grows only in river valleys. The most difficult passes are located in the eastern part of the ridge, a horseshoe envelope.

Wed The average height of the Karagem ridge, which is the watershed between Yungur and Karagem, is 3400 meters along its entire length. The ridge is covered with small glaciers, the area of ​​which increases towards the center of the node.

Sun e ridges converge into one knot in the area of ​​the Skazka and Krasavitsa peaks, located at the source of the Shavla River. Further to the east, the ridge is a complex system of ridges with developed valley glaciers and a number of northern and southern spurs 20-25 km long. The greatest glaciation is in the upper reaches of the rivers, Maash, Shavla, and on the southeastern slopes - in the headwaters of the rivers and Karagem.

In the drainage end of the ridge closes interesting peak The dome of three lakes, crowned with a glacier, behind it the ridge gradually degenerates, vast, in places swampy, open spaces appear, the forest disappears - it begins.

House of glaciologists near the Vodopadny glacier, on the way to the Dome, in height 3040 meters

Re The ki of the Bishyirdu mountain knot have much in common in their nutrition and regime. Therefore, they can be characterized by the example of a river. along its length from the sources to the exit from the mountains (14-15 km) and confluence with it is very diverse. Above the camp, it flows in a narrow valley in one channel, below the alpine camp it spills into many branches and channels, and then again enters one channel. During the day, in the area of ​​the alpine camp, it is impossible to wade it, and at dawn you can find a place where the crossing will be possible. The river also changes from the state of the weather. In the summer sunny days the river rages, and in cloudy weather its noise from the camp is almost inaudible. The speed of the river flow, depending on these conditions, varies from 1.8 m / s to 4 m / s and more.

Ha Typically, rain plays a minor role in the feeding of the river. Light rains not only do not increase water discharge, but, on the contrary, sometimes reduce, since in bad weather the melting of glaciers' snows decreases. Only heavy rains and heavy continuous rains increase the flow in the river.

On the river clearly shows changes in runoff over the time of day. But at the same time, daily highs and lows are not constant. During intensive melting of glaciers, the highest and lowest discharges occur later. The minimum water discharge on the river is observed on average in 5-7 hours, and the maximum - in 15-20 hours.

All re ki of the Severo-Chuisky ridge are tributaries of and. , before that, slowly carrying its waters along and, not far from the village, crashes into the gorge, making its way among the high rocks. This turbulent section of the river was named the Mazhoi cascade of rapids, since the mouth of one of the tributaries, the Mazhoy (Maash) river, is located nearby. Rafting on this site is characterized by the sixth, highest, category of difficulty, and to participate in it you need to have serious experience in water trips and soberly assess your strength. Not far from the mouth of the Mazhoi there is wooden bridge from which you can admire the riot of the elements - the Mazhoi cascade is an impressive sight. After the village, it calms down a little, however, powerful rapids are concentrated here, and the route along this section is rated by 4-5 categories of difficulty.

Severo-Chuisky ridge, view from the Chuisky tract

Cr The major tributaries in this area are the Akturu and Mazhoy (Maashi) rivers. The rivers Shavla and Karagem flow into. All rivers are very rough and rapids, the channel can be blocked by fallen trees. These are rivers with a steep slope. The angle of water fall here can exceed 100 m / km, that is, with each kilometer horizontally, the river descends 100 meters along the vertical axis.

Zd There are many lakes in almost every valley. This is explained by the vigorous activity of glaciers in antiquity - going down into the valley, the glacier, like a bulldozer, dragged in front of it a huge wall of stones - a moraine. Later, when the climate began to warm, the glacier stopped moving and began to retreat. The moraines remained to lie in the form of huge embankments, and many of them dammed up the rivers. This is how hundreds more reservoirs were formed, both large and very small. But when you see these lakes in clear weather, you forget about moraines-bulldozers, glaciers and just enjoy their endless beauty. Any traveler will be amazed by the severity of the Blue Lake in the Aktru gorge, the majestic view and the bright colors of the famous. The lakes on the Kamryu, Yungur, Abyl-Oyuk rivers are difficult to access and very beautiful, however, in order to get to them, you will have to walk for more than one day, overcoming categorical passes.

EU If you are lucky, you can meet wild animals here - mountain goats, wild boars. In remote valleys, where there is no local population or tourists, they live. There are quite a few of them in the Saylyugem river valley. Altai hunters say that they quite often observe through binoculars. , pikas and other rodents are ubiquitous here. Sometimes in some gorges, for example, on, in the early morning you can see up to a dozen running around the camp in search of food. Pikas are not so brave, but their characteristic squeak will invariably accompany you during walks along moraines, scree and ridges - the natural habitat of these small animals.

Ca we are M popular place for recreation in the region of the Severo-Chuisky ridge, undoubtedly, the Aktru valley is, however, other, less visited areas deserve a separate story. , the Maashi valley - all of them are famous for their beauty and are deservedly considered one of the most beautiful regions of Altai and all of Russia.

"A ktru "- translated from the Altai language means" the White house"or" white dwelling. "Mountaineering camp" Aktru "is located in the gorge of the same name. The camp is located in the wide part of the river valley at an altitude of 2150 metersand stands in the woods. It was first organized back in 1938, but rebuilt after the war and started working again only in 1953.

Akturu

Share n and Aktru is named after the river, whose sources are located on the surrounding glaciers. The valley is surrounded by high snow-capped mountains, more than 3500 meters high. The top of Aktru-Bashi (4075 meters) is the highest point of the region. This is one of the centers of mountaineering in Altai, there are concentrated routes from the 1st, the easiest, to the 6th, highest, category of difficulty. The first climbing camp appeared here in 1938. Today it is a year-round tourist base, where not only climbers, but also all nature lovers can stay. In the summer, there is a sports shift, where everyone can take a course of mountaineering training.

On For those who like mountain climbing, the summits of Kyzyl-Tash, Karatash and the Dome of Three Lakes await, from which magnificent panoramas of the Altai mountains open up. In addition, Aktru Valley is popular among freeriders. Here, with special physical and technical training, you can ride alpine skiing or snowboarding in both winter and summer. Lovers of picturesque nature can take a walk to the Maly Aktru glacier, the lower boundary of which drops to the level of the forest, and to the Blue Lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Picturesque views await you at the Uchitel pass. From it opens beautiful panorama peaks Akturu-Bashi and Kurkurek, and.

Severo-Chuisky ridge from the slopes of the Kuraisky ridge. Bizarre autumn flights of clouds over the Kuraiskaya steppe

Ak Tru is one of the few high-altitude gorges that can be reached by an all-terrain vehicle. Other valleys of Altai, as a rule, are inaccessible to any type of transport, except for a helicopter. The only exception is with gentle slopes, which is also available for passable vehicles. The trip to Aktru starts from the village of Kurai na. You can get to Kurai by any car, and a trip along it can become a separate adventure - there are a lot of different attractions and simply picturesque places on this road. In Kurai, we part with, turning onto a dirt road along, leading in the direction of the snow-capped mountains of the North-Chuisky ridge. The panorama of the ridge will accompany us throughout the trip across the steppe. In Kurai, we leave our minibus and change to an all-terrain vehicle. 23 kilometers across the steppe are driven with a breeze and accompanied by the most beautiful species to the surrounding mountains. After that, the road leads us to the "Perevalka" cordon. From here it is 8 kilometers to the Aktru climbing camp, but a difficult mountain road will require 2 hours to overcome this distance. It is best to go through the most difficult sections on foot, getting out of the car - just in case, for the sake of safety. Upstairs, in the valley, the road goes along the floodplain of the river, and compared to the ascent it is a picturesque and pleasant path that eventually leads to the Aktru climbing camp.

(or Maasheyskoe) is a lake in the region of the North Chuisky ridge at an altitude of 1984 meters. The lake died in July 2012. was located on the Maashei (Mazhoi) river, had a length of 1.5 km, a width of up to 400 m. It was formed about 100 years ago as a result of a landslide that blocked the river bed. The powerful glaciers Maashei, Kurkurek and Kurumbu are located near the lake. Bypassing the lake by west bank and following further along the Maashey channel, you can reach the Big Maashey glacier, from under which the river flows.

Lake Maashey in the valley of the Maashey river on the North Chuya ridge

Ma ashi (Mazhoy) is a turbulent river with milky blue water. A peak, glaciers, a valley, a lake, and several passes are named after this river. Peak Maashei-Bashi ("head, or house of Maashei") is the highest peak of the North Chuya ridge. The peak height is 4173 meters. The Big Maash glacier descends from its slopes into the valley. This is one of the largest glaciers in Altai, with an area of ​​about 14 square kilometers and the maximum thickness, or, more correctly, with a capacity of about 150 meters. The lower border of the glacier drops to an altitude of 2200 meters, which provides you with an excellent opportunity to walk along the Great Maashei and play snowballs in the summer.

Recommended You can combine a visit to the Maashey valley and. These two valleys complement each other perfectly. Shawla is a bright turquoise lakes surrounded by a forest and snow-capped mountains. In the Maashey valley, you will find mesmerizing views of the raging waters of the Mazhoy River, the harsh beauty of the Karagem-Bashi and Maashey-Bashi peaks and unique rocks of various colors and shades. Nearby there are picturesque lakes Karakabak, located in the circus of beautiful mountain peaks... The lakes surrounded by small waterfalls of Alyonina also fascinate. The full name of Alena, after whom Alena's lakes on the left tributary of the upper reaches of the Masha River are named - Elena Vladilenovna Bobyleva. On the way to the lakes, there is a memorial plaque with the inscription: "UNDERSTAND BY THE STREAM TO ALENIN LAKES, REMEMBER THE MOTHER OF TWO CHILDREN IN LOVE TO THE MOUNTAINS TOURIST BOBYLEV ELENA VLADILEVN. Walking to these natural art is usually included in the Maashei Valley travel itinerary.

Alyonin lakes

V Three roads lead the Maashei valley - the first two start from the villages and Mena na, and then connect at the old bridge across, not far from the mouth of the Mazhoy. Previously, there was a dirt road that climbed up the Maashei Valley, but in 2003 it was blocked by a rockfall and now this trail is only suitable for hikers, motorcycles and horses. After a steep climb up from, the trail flattens and further way not as difficult as the first 2-3 kilometers after the bridge.

Tr This road starts in the village of Kurai. This road is suitable for off-road vehicles, it crosses and eventually ascends to the pass in front of the Maashei valley. Descent from the pass is very difficult, the slope of the car to the bow in some areas can reach 45 degrees, and at the bottom of the valley of heroes-motorists there is a very wobbly bridge over the Mazhoy River. The road after the bridge connects with the trail from and Menov. Further by car, you can drive another 3 kilometers up the valley, after which the road ends and a hiking trail begins, leading to the lake, Maashei glacier, as well as to the Karakabak valley. Another road branches off from the main one and goes up to the side of the valley. This is the road to the Oroi pass, which will later become the path to.

All roads to Gorny Altai go through the city of Biysk, so the description will be from this city. The route looks like this:

Distance from Biysk is about 521 km. Of which 30 km will have to be walked.

GPS coordinates: 50.063198, 87.633465

In Biysk, after the bridge over Biya, we drive straight without turning anywhere. The historical part of the Chuisky tract will begin behind Biysk. The road is an excellent asphalt, and immediately behind Biysk there is a 4-lane road. True, not for long, after 20 km the usual two-lane will become, but still of excellent quality. Approximately 150 km after Biysk, there will be a fork in front of the village of Ust-Sema. We leave on the main right along the M-52 highway to Tashantu. We cross the Katun on a new bridge. We rise to the Seminsky pass. Although this is the highest pass on the Chuisky tract, it is not technically difficult, you can easily overcome it in any car at any time of the year. The cover on the pass, as well as on the entire Chuysky tract, is excellent asphalt. After 80 km there will be another pass, one of the most beautiful and more difficult than Seminsky - the Chike-Taman pass. However, it can be easily overcome by any car at any time of the year. Outside the village of Kupchegen, the track goes along the Katun. We pass the village of Inya, behind it there is a place

The Severo-Chuysky ridge stretching from north-west to south-east for almost 120 km is a site Altai mountains, located in the northwestern part of the Kosh-Agach region, in the southeastern part of the Altai Republic. The width of the ridge from the eastern part reaches 20 - 25 km, and from the western part - 50 km. The North Chuisky ridge is limited by the valleys of the Argut and Chagan-Uzun rivers.

On the Severo-Chuiskiy ridge, formed by sandstone, clay shale and other rocks, there are about 200 glaciers with a total area of ​​almost 175 square meters. km.

The Bish-Iirdu mountain knot in the central part of the Severo-Chuisky ridge is its the highest part and the center of glaciation. The average height of the ridge in this part is about 3600 m, the most high points are Maashey-bash- 4173 m, Aktru- 4044 m, Kurkurek- 3982 m.

In terms of scale and scenic beauty, the Severo-Chuisky ridge is one of the most memorable spectacles that appear before the eyes of tourists traveling along the Chuisky tract. For the first time, a majestic panorama of the Severo-Chuisky ridge with eternal snows on the peaks opens in the area of ​​801 km of the Chuysky tract, after the village of Aktash. The view is really impressive, but only if there is good visibility and no clouds. Most best views- at the entrances to the village of Kurai, as well as from the entire Kurai steppe. The distance from the Chuisky tract to the Severo-Chuisky ridge is about 30 km. The Saylyugem National Park was created on the spurs of the ridge.

Nature

The lower part of the slopes of the Severo-Chuisky ridge, at an altitude below 2400 m, is covered with larch-cedar taiga, higher there are alpine meadows, then the tundra zone, at the very top there are eternal snows and glaciers. In this area you can find wild animals - marals, mountain goats, wild boars, as well as numerous rodents - chipmunks, pikas, squirrels, ground squirrels. Large animals are also found in the valleys, for example, bears and the rarest animals listed in the Red Book - snow leopards - live here.

This area is characterized by a sharply continental climate, which is distinguished by large differences in day and night temperatures, cold winters and short summers. During the winter months, the average temperature in the area is -20 degrees. In summer, temperature fluctuations are colossal: for example, during the day the temperature can rise to +25 degrees, and at night it can drop sharply to 0. For this reason, when going on a trip to this area, even in summer it will not be superfluous to take warm clothes with you, as well as a raincoat and Sunglasses.

The rivers of the Severo-Chuisky ridge are tributaries of the Chuya and Argut. The large tributaries of the Chuya in this area are the Aktru (Akturu) and Mazhoi (Maashi) rivers. The rivers Shavla and Karagem flow into Argut. All rivers are very rough and rapids, very difficult for rafting.

A large number of lakes in the region of the Severo-Chuisky ridge is due to the activity of glaciers in this area in antiquity. Coming down from the top, the glacier dragged in front of it a huge wall of stones - a moraine. When, during the warming of the climate, the glacier stopped, the moraines remained lying in the form of huge embankments, which were subsequently filled with water.

Many lakes, which are real pearls of Altai and the Severo-Chuisky ridge, are inaccessible. For example, the way to the lakes on the rivers Kamryu, Yungur, Abyl-Oyuk takes up to several days and is separated from big land»Category passes. More accessible and popular with tourists are Blue Lake in the Aktru gorge, Maasheyskoye lake and the famous Shavlinsky lakes.

sights

The main attraction of the region of the Severo-Chuisky ridge can rightfully be called nature: a huge number of lakes of incredible beauty, mountain valleys, the highest ice peaks, rapid turbulent rivers, relict cedar forests, as well as the opportunity to make mountain hiking trips and mountaineering ascents - all this makes the protected area of ​​the spurs of the Severo-Chuisky ridge unique tourist destination... The most popular routes are the valleys of the Aktru, Shavly and Mazhoya rivers.

Valley of Aktru (Akturu)

Due to its relatively good accessibility (the gorge can be reached by a cross-country vehicle), the Aktru valley is the most popular attraction of the North Chuysky ridge.

The Aktru valley is named after the Aktru river, whose sources are located on the surrounding glaciers. The valley is surrounded by high snow-capped mountains, the height of which exceeds 3500 m. The second highest peak of the Severo-Chuisky ridge is located here - the Aktru glacier, with a height of 4044 m.

This is one of the centers of mountaineering in Altai, here mountain routes originate from the first (easiest) to the sixth (highest) categories of difficulty. The first climbing camp, which is located at an altitude of 2150 m, appeared at this place back in 1938. Despite the fact that many years have passed since then, and the tourism business, of course, is developing, the Aktru alpine camp is still practically the only "oasis" of infrastructure in this mountainous region.

Today the Aktru alpine camp is a year-round tourist base, where not only climbers, but also all nature lovers can stay. In addition, Aktru Valley is popular among freeriders. Here, with special physical and technical training, you can go downhill skiing or snowboarding at any time of the year, however, there are no equipped lifts and specially laid tracks.

From the alpine camp you can make radial exits to the glaciers Bolshoy and Maly Aktru, to the high-mountainous Blue Lake, to the peaks of Kyzyl-Tash (3486 m), Karatash (3534 m) and the Dome of Three Lakes (3556 m), from which magnificent panoramas of the Kurai steppe open and the mountains of Altai. These routes can be followed by an instructor, or you can independently - the trail is specially equipped, there are signs along its entire length of the trail.

Small Aktru glacier has a length of about 3 km and an area of ​​more than 3 square meters. km. The glacier occupies the valley between the peaks of Karatash and the Dome of Three Lakes, the thickness of the ice of Maly Aktru reaches 92 m. The way from the alpine camp to Maly Aktru will take about an hour one way.

Big Aktru glacier, with an area of ​​more than 11 sq. km and a length of about 8 km, is the main and largest of the Aktru glaciers. The thickness of the ice in some places reaches 350 m. It has two "arms" - the smaller Right Aktru and the larger Left Aktru. In the area of ​​the lower part of the glacier, at an altitude of 2840 m above sea level, there is the Blue Lake. The road to the Blue Lake from Aktru alpine camp will take up to 4 hours one way

Blue Lake is the starting point for ascents to a number of peaks. From the north and north-east, the lake is framed by steep rocky slopes, the southern shore of the lake is more gentle, formed by a glacial moraine. The water in the lake is turquoise in color, but very cold - even in hot summers its temperature does not rise above +2 degrees. The depth of the lake is 14 m. The ice on the lake lasts from the second half of September to the beginning of June.

Panorama "Severo-Chuisky ridge in winter" (exact place - Blue Lake in Aktru gorge)

Shavlinsky lakes

Shavlinsky lakes, located in the valley of the Shavla river - the very heart of the Severo-Chuysky ridge - are one of the most beautiful places Mountain Altai. The lakes got their name from the Shavla River, which means "young tree" in Altai. Shavlinsky lakes amaze with incredible color combinations: bright turquoise color of water, rich green shades of larch and cedar forests, framed by snow-white snow-capped peaks bearing magical names - Dream, Fairy Tale and Beauty.

Lower Shavlinskoe lake is located at an altitude of 1973 m, the length of the lake is 800 m, the width is 500 m. The lake is in the stage of siltation. In the middle of it there are extensive shoals, partly overgrown with sedge. You can get here on foot or on horseback as part of a horse excursion.

Upper Shavlinskoe Lake considered the most beautiful lake in the surrounding area. The lake is located at an altitude of 2164 m. Its length is 1500 m, and its width is 500 m. It is located near the large Shavlinsky glacier, descending to the northwest from one of the peaks of the North Chuysky ridge. The banks are flat, rocky. The lake has a peculiar bright turquoise color of the water, due to a noticeable admixture of glacial turbidity. Horse groups no longer reach the Upper Shavlinskoye Lake and you can only get to its shore on foot or by helicopter.

Valley Maashey (Mazhoy)

It got its name from the stormy Altai river - Maasha (Mazhoy). Here is the peak of Maashey-bash - highest peak Severo-Chuisky ridge, the height of which is 4173 m. From its slopes, the Big Maashi glacier descends into the valley. This is one of the largest glaciers in Altai, with an area of ​​about 14 sq. km and a thickness of about 150 m. The lower boundary of the glacier drops to an altitude of 2200 m.

In the Maashei Valley, the main attractions are Mazhoi cascade- The 17-kilometer stretch of the Chuya River from the mouth of the Maashei River to the Chibit village, with 54 rapids of 5 and 6 (highest) categories of difficulty, is a real “mecca” for fans of extreme recreation.

The hiking trails to lakes Maasheya- Karakabak, Maashi lakes, Alenin (or Alenkin) lakes with waterfalls; Maashi glacier (Right and Left), Karagem mountains.

Many excursion routes combine a visit to the Maashey valley with a visit to the Shavla river valley and the Shavlinsky lakes.

How to get there

The cities closest to the Severo-Chuyskiy ridge are Biysk (distance about 500 km) and Gorno-Altaysk (about 400 km), 30 km of which will need to be covered on foot or part of the way by an off-road vehicle.

The route to the ridge follows federal road R-256 - Chuysky tract, through the villages of Aktash, Chibit and Kurai. Further - in the hike mode, almost 30 km on foot.

The coordinates of the Severo-Chuisky ridge for the navigator: 50.063198, 87.633465

Depending on which program you have planned, the route will differ slightly.

So, on routes to the Aktru valley the departure will be from the village of Kurai (826 km of the Chuysky tract), to the Mazhoya valley- from 801 km of the Chuysky tract, to the Shavla valley- from 780 km of the Chuisky tract (landmark - the bridge over the Chuya river in front of the Chibit village).

The route from Gorno-Altaysk to the village of Aktash along the Chuysky tract

Access to the Aktru Valley is the easiest of all. In good weather, by car it will be possible to get closer to the spurs - to the sign "Cordon-Pass 500 m" (also known among tourists as "Perevalka"), an SUV will allow you to drive even further for almost 8 km, but you need to take into account that there is a river the area that the car will have to wade.

Because public transport does not travel to these parts, and there is no way to get there by car, it is obvious that in order to inspect all the beauties and hidden secrets of the North Chuysky ridge, one of the best options may be a trip as part of an organized tour group. Such excursions are easy to purchase in advance. Often, the programs include comfortable delivery to the place of the group gathering, river rafting where it is impossible to walk, overcoming some sections of the path on horseback or "casting" off-road vehicles to hard-to-reach places.

Video "Landscapes of the Severo-Chuisky ridge"

Severo-Chuisky ridge is a mountain range of Central Altai, located on the interfluve of the Chuy River and the Karagem and Chaganuzun rivers. From the west, the ridge is bounded by the Argut valley, from the east - by the Chagan-Uzun valley. The North Chuisky ridge can be imagined as a continuation of the Katunsky ridge, cut by the Argut River. The total length of the ridge is about 120 kilometers. The North Chuisky ridge has almost the same average height of about 3500 meters. Along the entire length of the ridge, there are peaks with a height of about 4000 meters, the highest of which are the Maashey-Bash mountain (4173 meters) in the Bish-Iirdu mountain knot, in which the main glaciation of the ridge is concentrated, and the Aktru-Bashi mountain (4075 meters).

The ridge has a pronounced alpine appearance - peaked peaks covered with eternal snow and glaciers, steep, steep slopes cut by river gorges. On the slopes up to an altitude of 2200-2400 meters, there is a larch-cedar taiga, higher - alpine meadows and tundra.

Several large centers of glaciation are located within the Severo-Chuisky ridge. The total area of ​​glaciation is over 130 sq. Km. There are several glaciers in the Aktru valley, the largest of which are the Left and Right Aktru, Dzhelo, and Maly Aktru glaciers. The Big Maashey glacier, which is one of the largest glaciers in Altai, is located on the slopes of the Maashey-Bashi mountain. Its area is 14 sq. Km.

The Severo-Chuisky ridge is interesting primarily for professional climbers who are able to make mountain hikes up to the 4th category of difficulty. The most popular routes pass in the basins of the Aktru, Masha, Shavla rivers. As a rule, trekking starts in Chibit, Aktash, Menakh, Kurai or Aktru camp.

Altai is characterized by a complex system of ridges with spurs of different heights and lengths. The Severo-Chuisky ridge is located in the southern part of the Altai Republic and has a length of about 120 km; its spurs go out to the Chuisky tract, which explains its high tourist development.

This is the second highest ridge in the Russian Altai. It has the greatest height in its central part, where its main glaciation is located. The heights of the mountains here reach 4000 m and higher (Maash-Bash, Aktru). This area of ​​glaciation is relatively accessible and is one of the centers of mountaineering and tourism in Altai.

The most popular place among tourists is the Aktru valley, due to the presence of a climbing camp here.

The ridge is fraught with a large number of attractions. The rivers of the ridge are tributaries of the Chuya and Argut, all of them are very rough and rapids, with a steep slope.

The large number of lakes is explained by the activity of the glacier in antiquity. The most famous and visited ones are the Shavlinsky, Karakabak, as well as the Maashi lake, which disappeared in 2012.

To the Maashi glacier

Route description

Route type - pedestrian
Duration - 7 days
Length - auto 600 km, pedestrian. 20 km
Number of tourists - from 6 people
Price - 12,000 rubles

Arrival Schedule

June: 5, 12, 19, 26
July: 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
August: 7, 14, 21, 28

Route program

1 day Meeting the group at the airport in the city of Gorno-Altaysk, at the bus and railway stations in the city of Biysk. Transfer to the recreation center in the Chemal region, Altai Republic (from Gorno-Altaysk 80 km, from Biysk 170 km). Upon arrival at the camp site - breakfast. After that, fees for the route: receipt of food and equipment, packing of backpacks, loading into the car. Transfer to the Chuya river along the famous Chuisky tract. Chuisky tract is the main transport artery of Gorny Altai, connecting Russia and Mongolia. Outside the window, constantly changing landscapes. In a day's journey we will overcome two passes: Seminsky and Chike-taman, visit the confluence of the largest mountain rivers Chuya and Katun, visit archaeological sites: rock paintings of the Kalbaktash tract, Ininsky Olennye stones, ancient burial mounds of the Karakol valley. Upon arrival at the place of lodging, we set up camp, prepare dinner over the fire. Overnight in tents at the confluence of the Mazhoy and Chuya rivers.

2nd day Rise at 9.00, breakfast. Then we collect the camp and pack our backpacks. Today is the beginning of the walking part of the route. At the very beginning, a sharp ascent straight from the camp (400m.) Then a smooth ascent along the Maash (Mazhoy) river, crossing to the mouth of the Karakabak river. The journey takes 4-5 hours. A hot lunch by the stream in the middle of the way. We set up the camp at the confluence of the Mazhoy and Karakabak rivers. Overnight in tents.

Day 3 Radial exit to the Maashi glacier and the hollow of the lake of the same name, which broke its dam in 2012. The group finds itself at an altitude of about 2000 m. mountain lake and several waterfalls nearby. Riding on karimats on the glacier and tasting Alpine condensed milk ice cream. Hot lunch by the glacier. Return to the camp at the confluence of the Mazhoy and Karakabak rivers ( total length route 13 km). Dinner, campfire games. Overnight in tents.

4th day Radial hike to the upper reaches of the Karakabak river. The trail to the lakes winds along the Karakabak River among larches and honeysuckle, higher along the cedar, and then runs out into the high-mountain tundra zone to the thickets of dwarf willow and birch. Five lakes of the Karakabak valley amaze with their unrealistically turquoise color, around the lakes there are glades of flowering gentian, a bathing suit and catchments. Hot lunch by the lake. Return to the camp in the evening. Dinner, campfire games. Overnight in tents.

Day 5 Descent along the already familiar path to the valley of the Chuya river, to the mouth of the Mazhoy river. Overnight stay on the river bank. The journey takes 6-7 hours.

6th day Moving along the Chuisky tract to the tourist center in the Chemal region. Lunch on the bank of the Ursul river. Accommodation in comfortable double rooms. Bath. Farewell dinner.

Day 7 Breakfast. Check-out of rooms until 10.00. Departure home.

To the lakes of the Severo-Chuisky ridge

Route description

Route type - pedestrian
Duration - 13 days
Length - Auto 700, foot 100 km.
Number of tourists - from 6 to 30 people
Price - 26,000 rubles

Arrival Schedule

June: 5, 12, 19, 26
July: 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
August: 7, 14, 21, 28

Route program

1 day Early in the morning our buses are waiting for the participants of the route at the airport of the city of Gorno-Altaysk, at the railway and bus station in the city of Biysk. All participants of the route should gather at the Korona Katuni tourist center in the Maiminsky district, in the village of Barangol by 11.00. Then accommodation in summer houses, getting equipment, packing backpacks. Dinner. After lunch, excursion to Kamyshlinsky waterfall or rafting on the Katun river (optional). An evening of acquaintances with a barbecue by the fire.

2nd day 9.00 Breakfast. Immediately after breakfast, leaving the cabins, loading onto the bus and off you go! Let's go towards Mongolia along the Chuysky tract. The first stop is at the Seminsky pass (1800m.). Around the cedar taiga, meadows with alpine flowers. The next pass Chike-taman (1200m) is an open mountain serpentine. A beautiful view of the nearest snowy peaks of the Terekta ridge opens up from the pass. Descending from Chiketaman, we will have lunch on the bank of the Bolshoi Ilgumen river. The trip continues and ahead of Ininskie boma, Confluence of the Chuya and Katun rivers, Rock paintings of the Kalbaktash tract. In the village of Chibit we turn off the Chuysky tract and go up the mountain dirt road up the Chuya river. The place of overnight stay is the confluence of the Chuya and Mazhoy (Maashi) rivers. it unusual place... The raging streams of two mountain rivers are so noisy that to hear each other at a distance of three meters, you need to raise your voice.

Day 3 The beginning of the walking part of the route. Smooth ascent along the Maashey (Mazhoy) river, crossing to the mouth of the Karakabak river. The Maashey river remains on the lower left in the canyon, and in front you can see the peaks of Karagem-Bash, Maashey-Bash, Kurkure. The journey takes 4-5 hours. Radial hike to the Maashei glacier - one of the largest in Altai, to the place of the Maashei lake basin, which disappeared as a result of a breakthrough of a natural dam in 2011. Further, an exit to the "Alenin Lakes". After a tiring climb to the moraine, your gaze will have an amazing view of a small mountain lake and a number of large waterfalls... The journey takes 5 hours.

4th day Radial hike to the upper reaches of the Karakabak River, where there are five amazingly beautiful mountain lakes. The trail runs up the left bank of the Karakabak River among the larches and honeysuckle, then along the cedar and goes out into the alpine meadows covered with bright flowers of gentian, catchment and swimming pool. The walk generally lasts 6-7 hours. Lunch by the lake. Dinner at the camp. In the evening, games, conversations, songs with a guitar around the fire.

Day 5 We continue our hike. Immediately after breakfast we set up the camp, pack our backpacks and set off. Ascent to the Obo pass, trekking along the Eshtykkel plateau, which many tourists call a "wandering swamp". Further, the transition to the confluence with the Shavla River. On the way 6 - 7 hours. Hot lunch on the bank of the Shabaga river. Overnight on the bank of the Shavla river.

6th day Trekking to the Lower Shavlinskoe Lake - the group moves to the confluence of the Right and Levaya Shavla rivers, then goes along the right bank of the Shavla. In the last kilometers, the trail rises steeply, overcoming a powerful stone moraine, which formed the lake. A beautiful sight opens up: surrounded by high snowy peaks, the turquoise surface of Shavlinskoye Lake appears. Some of the lakeside sites are decorated with wooden idols. The journey takes 6-7 hours.

Day 7 Rest on the shores of Lake Shavlinskoe. Radial hike to the Upper Shavlinsky lake, walk to the glacier. The journey takes 6-7 hours.

Day 8 Afternoon. Walk to the waterfalls in the neighboring gorge.

Day 9 Returning back to the mouth of the Shabaga river by the same path along which you went to the Shavlinsky lakes. Only it is easier to walk, because you are already a close-knit family, a similar group. Everyone feels his friend and understands at a glance. And a week ago you didn't even know each other.

Day 10 Trekking along the Eshtykkel plateau through the Oroy pass to the upper reaches of the Oroy river. The journey takes 6-7 hours.

Day 11 Descent to the Chibit village. We go down the familiar path to the mouth of the Mazhoy River. Another pleasant evening to the music of the embrace of two mountain rivers. Hiking bath with swimming in the Chuya river.

12 day Transfer to the recreation center. The way back is always more fun. You have found new friends, you are overwhelmed with emotions of the accomplished trip, which surpassed all your expectations !!! Upon arrival at the base, accommodation in summer houses. Bath. Farewell bonfire and supper.

Day 13 Leaving home

Possession of the black guard

Route description

Route type - pedestrian
Duration - 8 days
Length - auto 800 km, pedestrian. 40 km
Number of tourists - from 6 to 30 people
Price - 14,000 rubles

Arrival Schedule

June: 5, 12, 19, 26
July: 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
August: 7,14, 21, 28

Route program

1 day

2nd day Transfer to the mouth of the Mazhoy river. In the morning, having a hearty breakfast and having collected the camp, we set off on the road. We continue along the Chuisky tract. In the program of visits: Ininsky boma (the road is pressed against the steep rocks, and on the other side there is a cliff over the Katun; The confluence of the Chuya and Katun rivers (an incredible sight !! And the crazy energy of this place!); Rock paintings of the Kalbaktash tract; Mazhoi cascade of rapids of the Chuya river ( the most extreme rafting competitions are held there.) Overnight in tents in a clearing at the confluence of the Chuya and Katun rivers.

Day 3 Trekking to the confluence of the Mazhoy and Karakabak rivers. After breakfast, we set up the camp. We set off on foot. Immediately from the camp, there is a sharp ascent uphill to the plateau (400m). Further, the trail is gently sloping over the Mazhaya river with the left bank upwards. Lunch in the middle of the way. We set up the camp not far from the confluence of the Mazhoy and Karakabak rivers. A beautiful meadow overlooking the Maashey glacier. Overnight in tents.

4th day Radial hike to the Maashi glacier. We are not renting the camp today. Taking some food and cameras with us, we go to the foot of the Maashei glacier. The path is not easy, the path is often blocked by heaps of large stones (kurums). On the way, inspecting small waterfalls and lakes. We will prepare lunch directly under the glacier. Return to camp for dinner. Overnight in tents.

Day 5 Trekking to the Karakabak tract. We collect the camp and climb 5 km further into the mountains up the Karakabak river. We set up camp, prepare lunch. After lunch, we make a radial hike to the Karakabak lakes. Five unusually turquoise lakes are located in a chain in the moraines of the Karakabak gorge. The lawns near the lakes are covered with bright alpine flowers. Return to camp for dinner. Overnight in tents.

6th day Afternoon. Everyone can climb Mount Okhotnik (3200 m.). A serious test of your physical capabilities. We set off for the ascent early in the morning. After breakfast at dawn, we set off on the rise. The beginning of the ascent along the madder, jumping from stone to stone to the isthmus with the lake, then a steep ascent along the ridge to the top. From the top of the mountain, a dizzying picture of mountains covered with ice and snow opens up. Lunch with dry rations. Return by the same path.

Day 7 Trekking to the mouth of the Mazhoy River. Transfer to the tourist center "Korona Katuni". Bathhouse, dinner.

Day 8 Departure home.

Karakabak - Aktru

Route description

Route type - auto-walking
Duration - 8 days
Length - auto 700 km, pedestrian. 45 km
Number of tourists - from 6 to 20 people
Price - 24,000 rubles

Arrival Schedule

June: 5, 12, 19, 26
July: 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
August: 7,14, 21, 28

Route program

1 day The meeting of the group should take place no later than 14.00 in the village of Barangol, Maiminsky district of the Altai Republic, on the territory of the Korona Katuni camp site. In the early morning our buses will be waiting for you at the Gorno-Altai airport, at the bus station and railway station in the city of Biysk. By prior arrangement, we can meet in Novosibirsk or Barnaul. We all have lunch at the Katun Crown, collect our backpacks, get food, load everything onto a car and set off on the route. Transfer to the Bolshoi Ilgumen river. The path lies along the Chuisky tract. Today in the program: Overcoming the Seminsky pass, with a stop at the summit (1800m). The Seminsky pass is covered with a dense cedar forest, and alpine flowers bloom on small lawns; overcoming the Chiketaman pass with a stop at the top. From Chiketaman, a beautiful view opens into the valley and the snow caps of the Terekta ridge peaks. Overnight in tents on the bank of a small clean river Bolshoi Ilgumen

2nd day Transfer to the Aktru tract. On the way, the group visits burial mounds, rock paintings, waterfalls, examines the famous rapids on the Chuya River - Begemot and Petrel.

Day 3 Excursion to the Big Aktru glacier (4087 m.), To the Blue Lake. The ascent time is 4 hours. During the ascent we will see the famous rocks called "Sheep's Foreheads", the third highest peak of Altai Aktru-Bash, 4075 m high. The trail requires serious efforts (large stones, steep ascent). Shoes - mountain trekking boots only. The weather often suddenly worsens (precipitation in the form of cold rain turning into snow).

4th day Excursion to the Small Aktru glacier. Rather, to its foot. The trail is no less difficult than yesterday, requiring effort, discipline and attention of the participants.

Day 5 Climbing the Dome of Three Lakes (3540 m) is a real mountaineering ascent that will require courage, perseverance and character. In addition to certain personal qualities, the correct equipment is required, so carefully study the tourist's memo.

6th day Descent to the Chuya river valley. Having passed to the village of Chibit, we go up to the mouth of the Mazhoy river by car, then on foot the group goes to the Karakabak tract. In a clearing in cedar, we break camping... We have lunch. Radial hike to the Karakabak lakes. This is one of the most beautiful places in the Severo-Chuisky ridge in Altai. The Karakabak lakes are located in a chain along the bottom of the picturesque gorge. The glacier squeezed out the moraines in steps, and the melt water filled the formed cavities with turquoise mirrors.

Day 7 Descent to the car along the familiar path. Transfer to the recreation center along the Chuisky tract. Bath. Goodbye party.

Day 8 Departure home.