Pylypets village — to Volovets, via Shypit Waterfall, Mount Hemba, Mount Velykyi Verkh

At a glance

A route of 28.8 km with 1,537 m of ascent from Pylypets village to Volovets. Estimated walking time: about 10 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. 0–4 kmGentle ups and downs at 630–760 m
2. 4–8 kmClimb of 720 m to Mount Gemba (1,491 m)
3. 8–14 kmAlong the ridge at 1,350–1,590 m
4. 14–19 kmDescent of 420 m (down to 1,159 m)
5. 19–22 kmClimb of 150 m to Mount Temnatyk (1,343 m)
6. 22–29 kmDescent of 830 m to Volovets

Steepest kilometre: km 24–25, a descent of 290 m (≈26%).

Water and overnight stays

Springs near the trail: at km 4, 6, 15, 19, 20, 21, 23 and 25. There are no springs between km 7 and 15 — carry at least 2 l of water.

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

A possible split into days:

1. Day 1: km 0–12, ≈5 h — overnight: no shelter nearby on the map, bring a tent
2. Day 2: km 12–29, ≈5 h — finish

When to go

Best time: May to October. In winter deep snow is possible, so experience and winter gear are needed.

Getting there

Start: Pylypets village. Most places to stay near the start are in Pylypets. 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 10 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, 15, 19, 20, 21, 23 and 25. There are no springs between km 7 and 15 — carry at least 2 l of water.

Where can I stay overnight?

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