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

At a glance

A route of 30.9 km with 2,558 m of ascent from Pylypets village to Volovets 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. 0–8 kmClimb of 790 m to Mount Gemba (1,491 m)
2. 8–13 kmGentle ups and downs at 1,340–1,590 m
3. 13–20 kmDescent of 450 m (down to 1,133 m)
4. 20–24 kmClimb of 190 m to Mount Temnatyk (1,343 m)
5. 24–31 kmDescent of 830 m to Volovets village

Steepest kilometre: km 26–27, a descent of 330 m (≈27%).

Water and overnight stays

Springs near the trail: at km 2, 3, 4, 6, 13, 15, 20, 22, 23 and 24 etc.. Some springs run low or dry up in late summer.

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

A possible split into days:

1. Day 1: km 0–12, ≈6 h — overnight: no shelter nearby on the map, bring a tent
2. Day 2: km 12–31, ≈6 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 9 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 2, 3, 4, 6, 13, 15, 20, 22, 23 and 24 etc.. Some springs run low or dry up in late summer.

Where can I stay overnight?

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