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

At a glance

A route of 25.1 km with 1,886 m of ascent from Volovets to Shypit Waterfall. Estimated walking time: about 9.5 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. 0–6 kmClimb of 810 m to Mount Temnatyk (1,343 m)
2. 6–10 kmGentle ups and downs at 1,190–1,310 m, past Mount Plai
3. 10–12 kmClimb of 270 m to Mount Veliky Verkh (1,598 m)
4. 12–24 kmGentle ups and downs at 1,330–1,650 m, past Mount Stii, Mount Gemba
5. 24–25 kmDescent of 300 m to Shypit Waterfall

Steepest kilometre: km 4–5, a climb of 280 m (≈28%).

Water and overnight stays

Springs near the trail: at km 3, 6, 7, 8, 11, 14, 18 and 25. 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 0–11, ≈4.5 h — overnight: no shelter nearby on the map, bring a tent
2. Day 2: km 11–25, ≈4.5 h — finish

When to go

Best time: June to September. In winter only for experienced hikers with proper gear: avalanche danger is possible. About 5 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 9.5 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 3, 6, 7, 8, 11, 14, 18 and 25. 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.