TREKKING IN THE CARPATHIANS

The best place for backpacking in Ukraine is in the Carpathian Mountains. There you will find many different routes – some of them are great for half-day trekking while others require up to 5-6 days trips. There is also a possibility to ride a mountain bike at some routes, but most of them are just for hiking.

The most popular and picturesque hiking rout is to the highest point of Ukraine – Goverla Mountain (2061 m.). Some tourists can reach the top of Goverla in 2 hours, however, most travelers need from 3 to 4 hours to climb the mountain and about 2 or 3 hours to go down.

The Carpathian mountains
Hoverla in the Ukrainian Carpathians

The first part of the trekking goes through an amazing forest then crosses a mountain stream and leads you to a peaceful clearing, where you can have a little rest. Then the way becomes more steep, goes through the bushes and you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The last steps to the top you will make on the rocky place, looking over the mountains. From the top of Goverla you can see the unforgettable panorama of the mountains covered with green forest.

On the way down you can either choose one of the two fastest paths down or prolong your trip and see the highest mountain lake in Ukraine – Nesamovyte Lake. If you are brave enough, you can even swim there, but please remember, that the water temperature in the lake is never more than 15 °C.

Nesamovyte Lake
Nesamovyte Lake

If you have a tent with you, you can continue your trekking from Goverla to Petros Mountain or to Black Mountain, both of them are more than 2000 meters high, and have an overnight in the mountains.

The best time for backpacking in the Carpathians is from June to September. You can choose to go by yourself, or order a local professional instructor who will make your journey even more interesting, informative and fun.