Active tours in Gorny Altai. Active tours in the Altai Mountains, where is the Severo Chuisky Range located?

The North Chuysky Range is a mountain range in the Altai Mountains. The length of its mountain range is approximately 140 km. The width of the ridge from the eastern part reaches 20 - 26 km and from the western part - 52 km. From the south, the ridge is limited by many valleys of the Chagan-Uzun and Karagem rivers.
The height of this ridge reaches its maximum in the center. This place is called Bish-Iirdu - the very center of glaciation of the entire ridge. There are 200 glaciers here, which cover an area of more than 180 square meters. km. The average height of the mountains in this place is 3620 m, but some peaks exceed 4100 m, for example, Maashey Bash, whose height is 4180 m and Aktru - 4080 m.
The North Chuysky ridge is covered with clayey sandstones, shales and limestones, and metamorphic rocks are also found. The climate on the mountain range is sharply continental. There are large differences between day and night temperatures; in addition, there are very cold and long winters and short but quite warm summers. Air temperature is high mountain lakes ah (Maashey, Shavlinskie lakes, Kamryu) in summer does not exceed +26 °C, but at night it can drop to 0 °C. The average winter temperature on the North Chuisky ridge is -22 °C degrees.
One of the most major centers of all glaciations is the Aktru Valley. The largest glaciers are located here: Right Altai Mountains. North Chuysky ridge. Photo www.polanna.35photo.ru and the Left Aktru, Maly Aktru and Dzhelo glaciers. The Bolshoi Maashey glacier is the largest glacier in Altai, area - 15 square meters. km. Its beginning is on the slopes of Maashey-Bashi.
All rivers of the ridge are tributaries of the Argut and Chuya rivers. Rec. On the Chuya there is the Mazhoysky cascade of rapids, and not far from it there is the source of one of the Chuya tributaries - the Mazhoy River. Chuya has the sixth, powerful category of difficulty for sports and water tourism, this is the most highest level, which only well-prepared tourists and qualified athletes can overcome. In addition to Mazhoy, the Chuya River has another fairly large tributary - Aktura. All rivers have rapids and have a turbulent, swirling current.
Almost all the valleys of the North Chuysky ridge have beautiful lakes, which is associated with the activity of ancient glaciers. When the glaciers descended into the valley, they pulled behind them a huge moraine - a shaft of stones and mud. After warming, the glaciers stopped actively moving, but placers of stones remained; these places dammed many lakes, which is how Lake Mashey, beloved by all tourists, the Shavlinsky lakes and many others were formed.
The slopes of the mountains, which have a decent height of up to 2400 m, are covered with larch-coniferous taiga, in which spruce, cedar, birch, fir, larch grow, above this mark there is a zone of famous alpine meadows, forbs and berry plants grow here, and even higher is the territory of the tundra . The North Chuysky ridge is home to many animals, among them: deer, roe deer, wild boars, mountain goats, bears, lizards, squirrels, chipmunks, and snow leopards are rare.

Altai is characterized by a complex system of ridges with spurs different heights and length.

The North Chuysky ridge is located in the southern part of the Altai Republic and has a length of about 120 km, its spurs go to the Chuysky tract, which explains its high tourist development. This is the second highest ridge in the Russian Altai. Greatest height

it has in its central part, where its main glaciation is located. The heights of the mountains here reach 4000 m and higher (Maashey-Bash, Aktru). This glaciation area is relatively accessible and is one of the centers of mountaineering and tourism in Altai. The most

popular place

tourists visit the Aktru Valley due to the presence of a mountaineering 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 stormy and rapids, with a large slope.

The large number of lakes is explained by glacier activity in ancient times.

The most famous and visited are Shavlinskie, Karakabakskie, and Lake Maashey, which disappeared in 2012. To the Maashey glacier
Route description Route type -
pedestrian Duration -
7 days Length -
car 600 km, walking 20 km Number of tourists -

from 6 people

Price - 5, 12, 19, 26
12,000 rub. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Race schedule 7, 14, 21, 28

June:

July: Meeting the group at the airport in Gorno-Altaisk, at the bus and railway stations in Biysk. Transfer to a recreation center in the Chemalsky district, Altai Republic (from Gorno-Altaisk 80 km, from Biysk 170 km). Upon arrival at the camp site - breakfast. Then preparations for the route: getting food and equipment, packing backpacks, loading into the car. Transfer to the Chuya River along the famous Chuya Highway. The Chuysky tract is the main transport artery of the Altai Mountains, connecting Russia and Mongolia. Outside the window there are constantly changing landscapes.

During the day's journey we will overcome two passes: Seminsky and Chike-taman, we will visit the confluence of the largest mountain rivers

Chui and Katun, we will visit archaeological sites: rock paintings of the Kalbaktash tract, Ininsky Olenye stones, ancient mounds of the Karakol valley. Upon arrival at the overnight location, we set up camp and cook dinner over the fire. Overnight in tents at the confluence of the Mazhoy and Chuya rivers. Day 2 Rise at 9.00, breakfast. Then we pack up the camp and pack our backpacks. Today is the start of the walking part of the route.

Day 3 Radial access to the Maashey glacier and the basin of the lake of the same name, which broke through its dam in 2012. The group finds itself at an altitude of about 2000 m. Climbing to the moraine to inspect a small

mountain lake and several waterfalls nearby. Riding on a glacier and tasting alpine ice cream made from condensed milk.

Hot lunch by the glacier. Return to the camp at the confluence of the Mazhoy and Karakabak rivers (total length of the route 13 km). Breakfast. Rooms are available until 10.00. Departure home.

To the lakes of the North Chuysky ridge

The large number of lakes is explained by glacier activity in ancient times.

The most famous and visited are Shavlinskie, Karakabakskie, and Lake Maashey, which disappeared in 2012. To the Maashey glacier
Route description 13 days
pedestrian Auto 700, walking 100 km.
7 days from 6 to 30 people.
car 600 km, walking 20 km 26,000 rub.

from 6 people

Price - 5, 12, 19, 26
12,000 rub. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Race schedule 7, 14, 21, 28

June:

July: Early in the morning, our buses are waiting for route participants at the airport in Gorno-Altaisk, at the railway and bus stations in Biysk. All participants in the route must gather at the “Crown of Katun” camp site in the Mayminsky district, in the village of Barangol by 11.00. Then accommodation in summer houses, receiving equipment, packing backpacks. Dinner. After lunch, excursion to the Kamyshlinsky waterfall or rafting down the Katun River (optional). An evening of dating with a barbecue by the fire.

During the day's journey we will overcome two passes: Seminsky and Chike-taman, we will visit the confluence of the largest 9.00 Breakfast. Immediately after breakfast, vacate the houses, load onto the bus and hit the road! Let's go towards Mongolia along the Chuisky tract. The first stop is at the Seminsky pass (1800m). All around there is cedar taiga, clearings with alpine flowers. The next pass Chike-taman (1200m) is open mountain serpentine. Opens from the pass beautiful view to the nearest snowy peaks of the Terektinsky ridge. Having descended from Chiketaman, we have lunch on the banks of the Bolshoi Ilgumen River. The trip continues and ahead are the Ininsky bomas, the confluence of the Chuya and Katun rivers, rock paintings of the Kalbaktash tract. In the village of Chibit we turn off the Chuya tract and climb the mountain dirt road up the Chuya River. The place to stay for the night is the confluence of the Chuya and Mazhoy (Maashey) rivers. This unusual place. The raging streams of two mountain rivers are so noisy that in order to hear each other at a distance three meters, you need to raise your voice.

Chui and Katun, we will visit archaeological sites: rock paintings of the Kalbaktash tract, Ininsky Olenye stones, ancient mounds of the Karakol valley. Upon arrival at the overnight location, we set up camp and cook dinner over the fire. 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 the peaks of Karagem-Bash, Maashey-Bash, and Kurkure are visible ahead. The journey takes 4-5 hours. Radial access to the Maashey glacier - one of the largest in Altai, to the site of the basin of Lake Maashey, which disappeared as a result of the breakthrough of a natural dam in 2011. Next, access to the “Alenin Lakes”. After a tiring climb to the moraine, your gaze will open to an amazing view of a small mountain lake and a number of small waterfalls. The journey takes 5 hours.

At the very beginning there is a sharp ascent straight from the camp (400m.) Then a smooth ascent along the Maashey (Mazhoy) River, crossing to the mouth of the Karakabak River. The journey takes 4-5 hours. Hot lunch by the stream in the middle of the journey. Radial access 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 larches and honeysuckle, then through cedar and emerges into alpine meadows covered with bright flowers of gentian, columbine and bathhouse. The walk generally lasts 6-7 hours. Lunch on the shore of the lake. Dinner at the camp. In the evening, games, conversations, songs with a guitar around the fire.

Day 3 We continue our hike. Immediately after breakfast we pack up the camp, pack our backpacks and hit the road. Ascent to the Obo pass, crossing the Eshtykkel plateau, which many tourists call the “wandering swamp”. Next, cross to the confluence with the Shavla River. The journey takes 6 – 7 hours. Hot lunch on the banks of the Shabaga River. Overnight on the banks of the Shavla River.

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

Hot lunch by the glacier. Return to the camp at the confluence of the Mazhoy and Karakabak rivers (total length of the route 13 km). Rest on the shore of Lake Shavlinskoye. Radial access to Upper Shavlinskoye Lake, walk to the glacier. The journey takes 6-7 hours.

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

Day 9 Return back to the mouth of the Shabaga River along the same path along which you walked to the Shavlinsky lakes. It’s just easier to go because you are already a close-knit family, a similar group. Everyone feels their comrade and understands perfectly. And just a week ago you didn’t even know each other.

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

Day 11 Descent to the village of Chibit. We follow a familiar path down to the mouth of the Mazhoy River. Another pleasant evening to the music of the embrace of two mountain rivers. Camping sauna with swimming in the Chuya River.

12 day Transfer to the recreation center. The way back is always more fun. You have made new friends, you are overwhelmed with the emotions of the completed journey, which exceeded all your expectations!!! Upon arrival at the base, accommodation in summer houses. Bathhouse. Farewell bonfire and dinner.

Day 13 Departure home

Domain of the Black Guard

The large number of lakes is explained by glacier activity in ancient times.

The most famous and visited are Shavlinskie, Karakabakskie, and Lake Maashey, which disappeared in 2012. To the Maashey glacier
Route description 8 days
pedestrian car 800 km, walking 40 km
7 days from 6 to 30 people.
car 600 km, walking 20 km 14,000 rub.

from 6 people

Price - 5, 12, 19, 26
12,000 rub. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Race schedule 7,14, 21, 28

June:

July:

During the day's journey we will overcome two passes: Seminsky and Chike-taman, we will visit the confluence of the largest Transfer to the mouth of the Mazhoy River. In the morning, after having a hearty breakfast and packing up the camp, we set off on the road. We continue moving along the Chuysky tract. In the program of visits: Ininskie boma (the road hugs steep cliffs, and on the other side there is a cliff above 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; Mazhoisky cascade of rapids on 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.

Chui and Katun, we will visit archaeological sites: rock paintings of the Kalbaktash tract, Ininsky Olenye stones, ancient mounds of the Karakol valley. Upon arrival at the overnight location, we set up camp and cook dinner over the fire. Trek to the confluence of the Mazhoy and Karakabak rivers. After breakfast, we pack up camp. We set off on foot. Immediately from the camp there is a sharp climb uphill to a plateau (400m). Further on the path is gentle above the Mazha River on the left bank upward. Lunch midway. We set up camp not far from the confluence of the Mazhoy and Karakabak rivers. A beautiful clearing overlooking the Maashey glacier. Overnight in tents.

At the very beginning there is a sharp ascent straight from the camp (400m.) Then a smooth ascent along the Maashey (Mazhoy) River, crossing to the mouth of the Karakabak River. The journey takes 4-5 hours. Hot lunch by the stream in the middle of the journey. Radial access to the Maashey glacier. We are not renting camp today. Taking some food and cameras with us, we set off to the foot of the Maashey glacier. The trail is not easy; the path is often blocked by piles of large stones (kurums). Along the way, visit small waterfalls and lakes. We will prepare lunch directly under the glacier. Return to camp for dinner. Overnight in tents.

Day 3 Transfer to the Karakabak tract. We pack up the camp and climb 5 km further into the mountains up the Karakabak River. We set up camp and prepare lunch. After lunch we make a radial trek 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.

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

Hot lunch by the glacier. Return to the camp at the confluence of the Mazhoy and Karakabak rivers (total length of the route 13 km). Trek to the mouth of the Mazhoy River. Transfer to the tourist center "Crown of Katun". Bath, dinner.

Day 8 Departure home.

Karakabak - Aktru

The large number of lakes is explained by glacier activity in ancient times.

The most famous and visited are Shavlinskie, Karakabakskie, and Lake Maashey, which disappeared in 2012. on foot
Route description 8 days
pedestrian car 700 km, walking 45 km
7 days from 6 to 20 people.
car 600 km, walking 20 km 24,000 rub.

from 6 people

Price - 5, 12, 19, 26
12,000 rub. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Race schedule 7,14, 21, 28

June:

July: 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 Katun tourist center. Early in the morning our buses will be waiting for you at the Gorno-Altaisk airport, at the bus station and railway station in the city of Biysk. By prior arrangement, we can meet you in Novosibirsk or Barnaul. We all have lunch together at the Crown of Katun, collect our backpacks, get food, load everything onto the car and set off on the route. Transfer to the Bolshoy Ilgumen River. The path lies along the Chuysky tract. Today on the program: Overcoming the Seminsky pass, with a stop at the top (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 there is a beautiful view of the valley and the snow caps of the peaks of the Terektinsky ridge. Overnight in tents on the bank of a small clean river Bolshoi Ilgumen

During the day's journey we will overcome two passes: Seminsky and Chike-taman, we will visit the confluence of the largest Transfer to the Aktru tract. Along the way, the group visits mounds, rock paintings, waterfalls, and examines the famous rapids on the Chuya River - Behemoth and Burevestnik.

Chui and Katun, we will visit archaeological sites: rock paintings of the Kalbaktash tract, Ininsky Olenye stones, ancient mounds of the Karakol valley. Upon arrival at the overnight location, we set up camp and cook dinner over the fire. Excursion to the Bolshoi Aktru glacier (4087 m), to the Blue Lake. Rise time - 4 hours. During the ascent we will see the famous rocks called “Ram’s Foreheads”, the third highest peak of Altai Aktru-Bash, 4075 m high. The trail requires serious effort ( big stones, The steep climb). Shoes – only boots for mountain trekking. Often the weather suddenly worsens (precipitation in the form of cold rain turning into snow).

Day 3 Climbing the "Dome of Three Lakes" (3540 m) is a real mountaineering climb that will require courage, perseverance and character. In addition to certain personal qualities, the correct equipment is required, so carefully study the tourist instructions.

mountain lake Descent into the valley of the Chuya River. Having driven to the village of Chibit, we rise to the mouth of the Mazhoy River by car, then the group walks on foot to the Karakabak tract. In a clearing in a cedar tree we break camping. Let's have lunch. Radial access to the Karakabak lakes. This is one of the most beautiful places North Chuysky 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 melt water filled the resulting cavities with turquoise mirrors.

Hot lunch by the glacier. Return to the camp at the confluence of the Mazhoy and Karakabak rivers (total length of the route 13 km). Descent to the car along a familiar path. Transfer to the recreation center along the Chuysky tract. Bathhouse. Farewell party.

Day 8 Departure home.

Stretching from northwest to southeast for almost 120 km, the North Chuisky ridge is a section 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 Chuysky ridge is limited by the valleys of the Argut and Chagan-Uzun rivers.

On the North Chuisky ridge, formed by sandstone, clay shales and other rocks, about 200 glaciers with a total area of almost 175 square meters are preserved. km.

The Bish-Iirdu mountain cluster in the central part of the North Chuya Range is its highest part and the center of glaciation. The average height of the ridge in this part is about 3600 m, the highest points are Maashey-bash— 4173 m, Aktru— 4044 m, Kurkurek— 3982 m.

In terms of scale and picturesqueness, the North Chuysky ridge is one of the most memorable sights that appears before the eyes of tourists traveling along the Chuysky tract. For the first time, the majestic panorama of the North Chuisky ridge with eternal snow on the peaks opens in the area of 801 km of the Chuisky tract, after the village of Aktash. The view is truly impressive, but only if visibility is good and there are no clouds. The most best views- at the entrances to the village of Kurai, as well as from the entire Kurai steppe. The distance from the Chuysky tract to the North Chuysky ridge is approximately 30 km. Sailyugemsky National Park was created on the spurs of the ridge.

Nature

The lower part of the slopes of the North Chuysky ridge, at an altitude below 2400 m, is covered by larch-cedar taiga, above there are alpine meadows, then there is a tundra zone, at the very top there are eternal snows and glaciers. In this area you can find wild animals - deer, mountain goats, wild boars, as well as numerous rodents - chipmunks, pikas, squirrels, gophers. 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 characterized by large differences in day and night temperatures, cold winters and short summers. During the winter months average temperature in this area it is -20 degrees. In summer, temperature fluctuations are colossal: for example, during the day the temperature can rise to +25 degrees, and at night drop sharply to 0. For this reason, when going on a trip to this area, even in summer it would be a good idea to take warm clothes with you, as well as a raincoat and Sunglasses.

The rivers of the North Chuya Range are tributaries of the Chuya and Argut. The major tributaries of the Chuya in this area are the Aktru (Akturu) and Mazhoy (Maashey) rivers. The rivers Shavla and Karagem flow into Argut. All rivers are very stormy and rapids, very difficult for rafting.

The large number of lakes in the North Chuysky range is due to the activity of glaciers in this area in ancient times. Coming down from the top, the glacier dragged in front of it a huge shaft of stones - a moraine. When, with climate warming, the glacier stopped, the moraines remained in the form of huge mounds, which were subsequently filled with water.

Many lakes, which are real pearls of Altai and the North Chuya Range, are difficult to access. For example, the journey to the lakes on the Kamryu, Yungur, Abyl-Oyuk rivers takes up to several days and is separated from “ big land» category passes. More accessible and popular among tourists are the Blue Lake in the Aktru Gorge, Maashei Lake and the famous Shavlinsky Lakes.

Attractions

The main attraction of the North Chuysky ridge region can rightly be called nature: great amount lakes of incredible beauty, mountain valleys, the highest icy peaks, fast turbulent rivers, relict cedar forests, as well as the opportunity to make mountain hiking trips and mountaineering - all this makes the protected area of the spurs of the North Chuysky ridge unique tourist destination. The most popular routes are the valleys of the Aktru, Shavla and Mazhoya rivers.

Aktru Valley (Aktur)

Due to its relatively good accessibility (the gorge can be reached by off-road vehicle), the Aktru Valley is the most popular attraction of the North Chuysky Range.

The Aktru Valley is named after the Aktru River, the sources of which 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 North Chuysky ridge is located here - the Aktru glacier, 4044 m high.

This is one of the centers of mountaineering in Altai, where the mountain routes from the first (simplest) to the sixth (highest) complexity categories. The first mountaineering camp, which is located at an altitude of 2150 m, appeared on this site back in 1938. Despite the fact that many years have passed since then, and travel business, of course, it is developing, until now the Aktru mountain camp is practically the only “oasis” of infrastructure in this mountainous region.

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

From the alpine camp you can make radial trips to the Bolshoi and Maly Aktru glaciers, to the high-mountain 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 and the Altai mountains open. These routes can be walked accompanied by an instructor, or you can go on your own - the trail is specially equipped, and there are signs along the 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 ice thickness of Maly Aktru reaches 92 m. The path from the mountain camp to Maly Aktru will take about an hour one way.

Bolshoi 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 “sleeves” - 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 Blue Lake. The road to Blue Lake from the Aktru mountain camp will take up to 4 hours one way

Blue Lake is the starting point for climbing a number of peaks. From the north and northeast the lake is framed by steep rocky slopes, South coast lakes - more flat, formed by a glacial moraine. The water in the lake is turquoise in color, but very cold - even in the hot summer its temperature does not rise above +2 degrees. The depth of the lake is 14 m. Ice on the lake lasts from the second half of September until the beginning of June.

Panorama “North Chuysky Ridge in winter” (exact location - Blue Lake in the Aktru Gorge)

Shavlinskie lakes

Shavlinsky lakes, located in the valley of the Shavla River - the very heart of the North Chuya Range - are one of the most beautiful places in the Altai Mountains. The lakes got their name from the Shavly River, which means “young tree” in Altai. Shavlinsky lakes amaze with incredible combinations of colors: the bright turquoise color of the water, rich green shades of larch and cedar forests, framed by snow-white peaks bearing magical names - Dream, Fairy Tale and Beauty.

Lower Shavlinskoye 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 shallows, partly overgrown with sedge. You can get here on foot or on horseback as part of a horseback excursion.

Upper Shavlinskoye 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, which descends to the northwest from one of the peaks of the North Chuysky ridge. The shores are flat and rocky. The lake has a peculiar bright turquoise water color, due to a noticeable admixture of glacial turbidity. Horse groups no longer reach Upper Shavlinskoye Lake and you can only get to its shore on foot or by helicopter.

Valley of Maashey (Mazhoy)

It got its name from the stormy Altai river - Maashey (Mazhoy). Here is the Maashey-bash peak, the highest peak of the North Chuysky ridge, whose height is 4173 m. The Bolshoi Maashey glacier descends from its slopes into the valley. This is one of the largest glaciers in Altai, with an area of about 14 square meters. km and a thickness of about 150 m. The lower boundary of the glacier drops to a height of 2200 m.

In the Maashei Valley, the main attractions are Mazhoysky cascade— a 17-kilometer section of the Chuya River from the mouth of the Maashey River to the village of Chibit, numbering 54 rapids of 5 and 6 (highest) categories of difficulty - a real “mecca” for lovers of extreme recreation.

Extremely picturesque too walking routes before lakes Maasheya— Karakabaksky, Lake Maashey, Alenin (or Alenkin) lakes with waterfalls; glacier Maashey (Right and Left), Mount Karagem.

Many excursion routes combine a visit to the Maashi Valley with a visit to the Shavla River Valley and the Shavlin Lakes.

How to get there

The closest cities to the North Chuysky Range are Biysk (distance about 500 km) and Gorno-Altaisk (about 400 km), 30 km of which will need to be covered on foot, or part of the way by all-terrain vehicle.

The route to the ridge goes along federal road R-256 - Chuisky tract, through the villages of Aktash, Chibit and Kurai. Next - in hiking mode, almost 30 km on foot.

Coordinates of the North Chuysky ridge for the navigator: 50.063198, 87.633465

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

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

Route from Gorno-Altaisk to the village of Aktash along the Chuisky tract

Access to the Aktru Valley is the easiest of all. IN good weather by car you can get closer to the spurs - up to the sign “Cordon-pass 500 m” (also known among tourists as “Perevalka”), an SUV will allow you to go even further, almost 8 km, but you need to take into account that there is a river section on the way, which the car will have to ford.

Because public transport does not travel to these regions, and there is no way to get there by passenger transport, it is obvious that in order to explore all the beauties and hidden secrets of the North Chuysky ridge, one of best options may be a trip as part of an organized tour group. Such excursions are easy to purchase in advance. Often, programs include comfortable delivery to the group meeting place, rafting on rivers where it is impossible to walk, covering some sections of the route on horseback, or “throwing” in off-road vehicles into hard-to-reach places.

Video “Landscapes of the North Chuya Range”

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

North Chuysky 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 Maashey glacier. The ridge is composed of shales, sandstones, limestones, and metamorphic rocks. Deeply dissected relief predominates. On the slopes up to an altitude of 2200-2400 meters there is taiga, higher up there are alpine meadows and tundra.Immediate settlements- Iodro, Kurai, Chagan-Uzun, (old), Inegen.

The highest point of the North Chuisky ridge is the Maashey-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 class). Another peak of the ridge, Mount Aktru-Bashi (4075 meters), rises to a height above 4000 meters above sea level. Mnoth mountains, with a height exceeding 3900 meters, and avg.the height of the ridge is 3500-3700 meters.

Cl The climate in the area of the North Chuisky ridge is moderate and sharply continental. It is characterized by a large difference between day and night temperatures, cold winters and short warm summers. On a summer day, the temperature on high-mountain lakes - Lake Camryu and others does not rise above +25 degrees, and at night it can drop to 0. When going on a trip to the mountains in the summer, take warm clothes with you. Having a sweater, windbreaker, or sports cap in your backpack can be invaluable. Take a raincoat with you, because the weather in the highlands is very unpredictable and can change in just thirty minutes. Sunglasses and sunscreen will come in handy, especially for walks in 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.

IN There are several large glaciation centers located in the North Chuya Range. First of all, this is a river valley. There are several glaciers here, the largest of which are the Left and Right Aktru, Dzhelo, and Small Aktru glaciers. One of the largest glaciers in Altai is the Bolshoy Maashey glacier, which originates on the slopes of Mount Maashey-Bashi. Its area is 14 square meters. km. Be careful! Walking on large glaciers without insurance is dangerous; there are quite a few cracks that can be hidden under the snow.

View from the Aktru transshipment cordon to the North Chuisky ridge in the morning

Pe The ridge's ridges are diverse, but have one pattern - the northern and northeastern slopes of the passes are steeper and the rises are higher. Categories of difficulty of passes - up to 3B, determining the nature of the most serious passes - snow and 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 geography of the ridge is complex and consists of several approximately parallel ridges with a general direction of west - east. They got their names from tourists: Chuisky, Shavlinsky, Karagemsky. Chuisky is located in the interfluve and Shavly, stretches for 60 km in the latitudinal direction from the confluence to the Eshtykol plateau. The heights of the ridge grow from west to east, the highest point is 2925 m. There are trails along many river valleys and along the watershed. The watershed is swampy in places. The Shavlinsky ridge is located between the Shavly and Yungur valleys. Its height is about 2500 meters, to the east it rises, and behind the right tributary of the Yungur, the Kurunda River, glaciation appears on the ridge. Forest grows only in river valleys. The most difficult passes are located in the eastern part of the ridge, the horseshoe curve.

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

Sun e ridges converge into one node in the area of the Skazka and Krasavitsa peaks, located at the sources of the Shavly River. Further to the east, the ridge represents 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 Maashey, Shavla, and on the southeastern slopes - at the sources of the rivers and Karagem.

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

Glaciologists' house near the Vodopadny glacier, on the way to the Dome, in height 3040 meters

Re The mountains of the Bishiirdu mountain cluster have much in common in their diet and regime. Therefore, their characteristics can be given using the example of a river. along its length from its origins to the exit from the mountains (14-15 km) and its confluence with the river is very diverse. Above the camp it flows in a narrow valley in one channel, below the mountain camp it spills into many branches and channels, and then again enters one channel. During the day in the area of the mountain camp it is impossible to ford it, but at dawn you can find a place where crossing will be possible. The river also changes depending on the weather conditions. On sunny summer days the river rages, and in cloudy weather its noise is almost inaudible from the camp. The river flow speed, depending on these conditions, varies from 1.8 m/sec to 4 m/sec or more.

Ha Typically, rain plays a minor role in feeding the river. Light rains not only do not increase water consumption, but, on the contrary, sometimes reduce it, since in bad weather the melting of glacial snow decreases. Only downpours and heavy, prolonged rains increase the flow in the river.

On The river clearly shows changes in flow depending on the time of day. But at the same time, daily maximums and minimums are not constant. During periods of intense glacier melting, the highest and lowest costs occur later. The minimum water flow on the river is observed on average at 5-7 hours, and the maximum at 15-20 hours.

Everything is re ki of the North Chuya Range are tributaries and. , which had previously been slowly carrying its waters along and, not far from the village, crashes into a gorge, making its way among high cliffs. This turbulent section of the river was called the Mazhoysky cascade of rapids, since the mouth of one of the tributaries, the Mazhoy (Maashey) River, is located nearby. Rafting along this section is characterized by the sixth, highest category of difficulty, and to participate in it you must have serious experience water trips and soberly assess your strengths. Not far from the mouth of Mazhoy there is wooden bridge, from which you can admire the violence of the elements - the Mazhoysky cascade is impressive sight. After the village it calms down a bit, however, powerful rapids are also concentrated here, and the route along this section is rated 4-5 category of difficulty.

North Chuisky ridge, view from the Chuisky tract

Kr The main tributaries in this area are the Akturu and Mazhoy (Maashey) rivers. The Shavla and Karagem rivers flow into it. All rivers are very stormy and rapids; the bed can be blocked by fallen trees. These are rivers with a large gradient. The angle of fall of the water here can exceed 100 m/km, that is, with every horizontal kilometer the river descends 100 meters along the vertical axis.

rear There are a lot of lakes, in almost every valley. This is explained by the active activity of glaciers in ancient times - descending into the valley, the glacier, like a bulldozer, dragged in front of it a huge shaft of stones - a moraine. Later, when climate warming began, the glacier stopped its movement and began to retreat. The moraines remained in the form of huge mounds, and many of them dammed rivers. This is how hundreds more reservoirs, both large and very small, were formed. But when you see these lakes in clear weather, you forget about bulldozer moraines and 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 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 several days, overcoming category passes.

EU If you're lucky, you can meet wild animals here - mountain goats, wild boars. In remote valleys, where there is neither local population nor tourists, they live. There are quite a lot of them in the Sailyugem River valley. Altai hunters say that they quite often observe them through binoculars. , pikas and other rodents are ubiquitous here. Sometimes in some gorges, for example, in the early morning you can see up to a dozen running around the camp in search of food. Pikas are not so bold, but their characteristic squeak will invariably accompany you while walking along moraines, stone screes and ridges - natural environment habitat of these small animals.

Ca Our most popular holiday destination in the North Chuysky ridge region is undoubtedly the Aktru Valley, however, other, less visited areas deserve a separate story. , Maashey 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 " White House"or "white dwelling". The Aktru mountaineering camp is located in the gorge of the same name. The camp is located in a wide part of the river valley at an altitude of 2150 metersand stands in the forest. It was first organized back in 1938, but was restored after the war and began to work again only in 1953.

Aktur

Doli n and Aktru is named after the river, the sources of which are located on the surrounding glaciers. The valley is surrounded by high snow-capped mountains, over 3500 meters high. Peak Aktru-Bashi (4075 meters) is highest point district. This is one of the centers of mountaineering in Altai; routes from the 1st, easiest, to the 6th, highest category of difficulty are concentrated here. The first mountaineering camp appeared here back 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 session where everyone can take a mountaineering training course.

On For novice mountain climbers, the peaks of Kyzyl-Tash, Karatash and the Dome of Three Lakes await, from which magnificent panoramas of the Altai mountains open. In addition, the Aktru Valley is also popular among freeriders. Here, having special physical and technical training, you can ski or snowboard both in winter and summer. Lovers of picturesque nature can take a walk to the Maly Aktru glacier, the lower border 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. It offers a beautiful panorama of the peaks of Akturu-Bashi and Kurkurek, and.

North Chuisky ridge from the slopes of the Kuraisky ridge. Bizarre autumn flights of clouds over the Kurai steppe

Ak Tru is one of the few high-mountain gorges that can be climbed by an all-terrain vehicle. Other Altai valleys are, as a rule, inaccessible to any type of transport except a helicopter. The only exception is with gentle slopes, which are also accessible to passable vehicles. The trip to Aktra begins from the village of Kurai na. You can get to Kurai by any car, and traveling along it can become a separate adventure - there are a lot of different attractions on this road and just scenic spots. In Kurai we leave, turning onto a dirt road along the road leading in the direction of the snow-capped mountains of the North Chuysky ridge. The panorama of the ridge will accompany us throughout our trip across the steppe. In Kurai we leave our minibus and transfer to an all-terrain vehicle. 23 kilometers across the steppe are driven with the breeze and accompanied by beautiful views to the surrounding mountains. After this, the road leads us to the Transshipment cordon. From here to the Aktru mountaineering camp - 8 kilometers, but difficult Mountain road It will take 2 hours to cover 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. At the top, in the valley, the road follows the floodplain of the river, and compared to the climb, it is a picturesque and pleasant path that eventually leads to the Aktru climbing camp.

(or Maasheyskoye) is a lake in the North Chuysky ridge at an altitude of 1984 meters. The lake died in July 2012. was located on the Maashey (Mazhoy) 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. Near the lake there are powerful glaciers Maashey, Kurkurek and Kurumbu. By going around the lake along the western shore and following further along the Maashey bed, 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 Chuisky ridge

Ma Ashey (Mazhoy) - a stormy river with milky blue water. The peak, glaciers, valley, lake, and several passes are named after this river. Peak Ma'ashey-Bashi ("head, or house of Ma'ashey") is highest peak North Chuysky ridge. The height of the peak is 4173 meters. The Big Maashey 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 a maximum thickness, or, more correctly, a thickness of about 150 meters. The lower boundary of the glacier drops to a height of 2200 meters, which provides you with an excellent opportunity to walk along Bolshoi Maashey and play snowballs in the summer.

We recommend You can combine a visit to the Maasha Valley and. These two valleys complement each other perfectly. Shavla is a bright turquoise lake surrounded by forest and framed by snow-capped mountains. In the Maashey valley you will find stunning views of the raging waters of the Mazhoy River, the harsh beauty of the peaks of Karagem-Bashi and Maashey-Bashi and unique rocks of various colors and shades. Nearby are the picturesque lakes of Karakabak, located in a circus of beautiful mountain peaks. The Alyonin lakes, surrounded by small waterfalls, are also enchanting. The full name of Alena, in whose honor the Alyonin lakes on the left tributary of the upper reaches of the Masha River are named, is Elena Vladilenovna Bobyleva. On the approach to the lakes hangs a memorial plaque with the inscription: “WALK UP THE STREAM TO ALENINY LAKES, REMEMBER THE TOURIST, MOTHER OF TWO, IN LOVE WITH THE MOUNTAINS, BOBYLEVA ELENA VLADILENOVNA, WHO KILLED DURING THE Descent FROM THE ALENA RIDGE. 07.23.95.” Walks to these works of natural art are usually included in the program of trips along the Maashay River Valley.

Alyonin Lakes

IN There are three roads leading through the Maashey valley - the first two start from the villages and Mena on, and then connect at the old bridge across, not far from the mouth of Mazhoy. Previously, there was a dirt road that went up the Maashey 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 out and the further path is no longer as difficult as the first 2-3 kilometers after the bridge.

Tr This road begins in the village of Kurai. This road is suitable for off-road vehicles and crosses and eventually climbs to a pass before the Ma'ashei Valley. The descent from the pass is very difficult, the slope of the car on the nose in some areas can reach 45 degrees, and at the bottom of the valley the hero-motorists are waiting for a very shaky bridge over the Mazhoy River. The road after the bridge connects with the trail from and Menov. Then by car you can drive another 3 kilometers up the valley, after which the road ends and a walking trail begins, leading to the lake, the Maashei glacier, and also 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.

North Chuysky ridge - mountain range Central Altai, located on the interfluve of the Chui River and the Karagem and Chaganuzun rivers. From the west the ridge is limited by the Argut valley, from the east by the Chagan-Uzun valley. The North Chuysky ridge can be imagined as a continuation of the Katunsky ridge, cut by the Argut River. Total length The ridge is about 120 kilometers long. The North Chuysky 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 Mount Maashey-Bash (4173 meters) in the Bish-Iirdu mountain cluster, in which the main glaciation of the ridge is concentrated, and Mount Aktru-Bashi (4075 meters).

The ridge has a pronounced alpine appearance - 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 larch-cedar taiga, above - alpine meadows and tundra.

Within the North Chuya Range there are several large centers of glaciation. total area glaciation covers more than 130 sq. km. There are several glaciers in the Aktru valley, the largest of which are the Left and Right Aktru, Dzhelo, and Small Aktru glaciers. The Bolshoy Maashey glacier, which is one of the largest glaciers in Altai, is located on the slopes of Mount Maashey-Bashi. Its area is 14 sq. km.

The North Chuysky ridge is of interest primarily to professional climbers who are capable of mountain hikes up to 4th category of complexity. The most popular routes pass in the basins of the Aktru, Mashey, and Shavla rivers. As a rule, hikes begin in Chibit, Aktash, Menakh, Kurai or Aktru camp.

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