Volovets — to Vovchyi village, via Mount Velykyi Verkh, Mount Stiy

At a glance

A route of 35 km with 2,080 m of ascent from Volovets to Vovchyi village. Estimated walking time: about 12 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. 0–12 kmClimb of 1,060 m to Mount Veliky Verkh (1,598 m)
2. 12–15 kmDescent of 530 m to Hut below Mount Hemba
3. 15–17 kmClimb of 470 m (up to 1,495 m)
4. 17–21 kmAlong the ridge at 1,470–1,650 m
5. 21–28 kmDescent of 1,130 m (down to 512 m)
6. 28–35 kmGentle ups and downs at 280–520 m

Steepest kilometre: km 15–16, a climb of 340 m (≈33%), near Hut below Mount Hemba.

Water and overnight stays

Springs near the trail: at km 4, 6, 7, 10, 15, 19, 22 and 34. There are no springs between km 22 and 34 — carry at least 1.5 l of water. Some springs run low or dry up in late summer.

Huts and shelters near the trail: Hut below Mount Hemba (km 15). Places to stay near the start: Volovets; near the finish: Svalyava.

A possible split into days:

1. Day 1: km 0–15, ≈5.5 h — overnight: Hut below Mount Hemba (hut)
2. Day 2: km 15–35, ≈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 4 km of the route runs above 1,500 m, where the weather changes quickly — check the forecast.

Getting there

Start: Volovets. This is a one-way route: the finish is 14 km from the start in a straight line, so plan your way back in advance.

Directions to the start in Google Maps

FAQ

How long does the route take?

Estimated walking time: about 12 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 4, 6, 7, 10, 15, 19, 22 and 34. There are no springs between km 22 and 34 — carry at least 1.5 l of water. Some springs run low or dry up in late summer.

Where can I stay overnight?

Huts and shelters near the trail: Hut below Mount Hemba (km 15). Places to stay near the start: Volovets; near the finish: Svalyava. Possible overnight stops: Hut below Mount Hemba (km 15).