Volovets — to Podobovets village, via Mount Plai, Mount Velykyi Verkh, Mount Stiy, Shypit Waterfall

At a glance

A route of 34.2 km with 2,201 m of ascent from Volovets to Podobovets 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. 0–14 kmClimb of 1,150 m to Mount Stii (1,681 m)
2. 14–18 kmDescent of 470 m (down to 1,172 m)
3. 18–22 kmClimb of 480 m (up to 1,649 m)
4. 22–34 kmDescent of 1,010 m to Podobovets village

Steepest kilometre: km 3–4, a climb of 340 m (≈34%).

Water and overnight stays

Springs near the trail: at km 5, 8, 9, 12, 18, 24 and 31. Some springs run low or dry up in late summer.

Places to stay near the start: Volovets; near the finish: Pylypets.

A possible split into days:

1. Day 1: km 0–15, ≈6 h — overnight: no shelter nearby on the map, bring a tent
2. Day 2: km 15–34, ≈6 h — finish

When to go

Best time: June to September. In winter only for experienced hikers with proper gear: avalanche danger is possible. About 6 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 10 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 5, 8, 9, 12, 18, 24 and 31. Some springs run low or dry up in late summer.

Where can I stay overnight?

Places to stay near the start: Volovets; near the finish: Pylypets.