Bystrytsia villageloop, via Mount Chorna Kleva, Mount Ruska, Mount Bratkivska

At a glance

A loop route of 36.8 km with 2,022 m of ascent, starting and finishing at Bystrytsia village. Estimated walking time: about 12.5 h, not counting stops — a very long day, so it is easier split into 2 days. Difficulty: hard. Waymarking is missing or partial.

Route stages

1. 0–9 kmClimb of 590 m to Mount Ploska (1,353 m)
2. 9–12 kmDescent of 250 m (down to 1,064 m)
3. 12–16 kmClimb of 620 m to Mount Chorna Kleva (1,719 m)
4. 16–24 kmAlong the ridge at 1,510–1,770 m, past Mount Ruska, Mount Bratkivska
5. 24–26 kmDescent of 560 m (down to 1,113 m)
6. 26–37 kmGentle ups and downs at 720–1,140 m

Steepest kilometre: km 15–16, a climb of 350 m (≈34%), near Mount Chorna Kleva.

Water and overnight stays

Springs near the trail: at km 14, 16, 17, 20, 21, 30 and 34. There are no springs between km 0 and 14 — carry at least 3 l of water.

Huts and shelters near the trail: Hut below Mount Ploska (km 8), Hut on Polonyna Vovkany (km 30).

A possible split into days:

1. Day 1: km 0–16, ≈6.5 h — overnight: no shelter nearby on the map, bring a tent
2. Day 2: km 16–37, ≈6.5 h — finish

When to go

Best time: June to September. In winter only for experienced hikers with proper gear: avalanche danger is possible. About 10 km of the route runs above 1,500 m, where the weather changes quickly — check the forecast.

Getting there

Start: Bystrytsia village. This is a loop: it brings you back to the start.

Directions to the start in Google Maps

FAQ

How long does the route take?

Estimated walking time: about 12.5 h, not counting stops — a very long day, so it is easier split into 2 days.

Is there water on the route?

Springs near the trail: at km 14, 16, 17, 20, 21, 30 and 34. There are no springs between km 0 and 14 — carry at least 3 l of water.

Where can I stay overnight?

Huts and shelters near the trail: Hut below Mount Ploska (km 8), Hut on Polonyna Vovkany (km 30).