Rushchyna polonyna – Ust-Chorna

At a glance

A one-day route of 14.9 km with 1,436 m of ascent from Rushchyna polonyna to Ust-Chorna. Estimated walking time: about 6 h, not counting stops. Difficulty: moderate. Waymarking: green.

Route stages

1. 0–8 kmGentle ups and downs at 750–930 m
2. 8–11 kmClimb of 240 m (up to 1,153 m)
3. 11–12 kmGentle ups and downs at 1,140–1,180 m
4. 12–14 kmClimb of 180 m (up to 1,332 m)
5. 14–15 kmGentle ups and downs at 1,310–1,410 m

Steepest kilometre: km 12–13, a climb of 180 m (≈18%).

Water and overnight stays

A spring near the trail: at km 13. There are no springs between km 0 and 13 — carry at least 3 l of water. Some springs run low or dry up in late summer.

Huts and shelters near the trail: Forester's hut “Pozharova” (km 0), Forester's hut “Ust-Plaiska” (km 1), Forester's hut “Marmur” (km 3), Forester's hut “Podeshurnyi” (km 5), Forester's hut “Perekhresnyi” (km 6), Forester's hut “Komarnyk” (km 7).

When to go

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

Getting there

Start: Rushchyna polonyna. This is a one-way route: the finish is 12 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 6 h, not counting stops.

Is there water on the route?

A spring near the trail: at km 13. There are no springs between km 0 and 13 — carry at least 3 l of water. Some springs run low or dry up in late summer.

Where can I stay overnight?

Huts and shelters near the trail: Forester's hut “Pozharova” (km 0), Forester's hut “Ust-Plaiska” (km 1), Forester's hut “Marmur” (km 3), Forester's hut “Podeshurnyi” (km 5), Forester's hut “Perekhresnyi” (km 6), Forester's hut “Komarnyk” (km 7).