Family mountain camp in Arkhyz

Today we will go on a simple circular route that allows you to see three large and completely different lakes in one day in the valley of the Malaya Dukka River, also known as the Arkasar Lakes, because they are located at the foot of the Arkasara range.

During the route, we will follow a good trail, enjoying the views of alpine meadows, snowfields and scree.

The water in the lakes will be clear with a rich greenish tint.

We will stop at one of the lakes for a big snack to gain strength and energy before continuing the route.

The route will take about 6-7 hours. The distance is 10 km, with an altitude of 600 m.

The route will take us to the main natural attractions of Arkhyz — the Sofia Waterfalls and the Sofia Glacier.

When we reach the waterfalls, we will have a snack, relax and continue our journey past the mighty streams of waterfalls falling from a height of 90 meters.

Mount Sofia, the second highest peak of Arkhyz (3,800 m), is a place where a glacier bristles with sharp needles, from which majestic waterfalls begin.

The Sofia River, fed by these waterfalls, is characterized by clear, crystal-blue water, and its valley is considered the most beautiful in Arkhyz.

As always, we will make stops every hour to rest, recuperate and socialize.

At the end of the hike in the evening, we will share our impressions and, under the guidance of our psychologist, play interesting games to become more open.

The duration of the route is 4-5 hours. The distance is 7 km, the height difference is 550 m.

This time we will start from the end of the dirt road in the valley of the Bolshaya Dukka River.

Here the road ends, and we switch to a path that leads along the river and rises smoothly in height. Along the way, we will encounter small streams where you can replenish your supply of clean water — cleaner than in the river.

The last section in front of the lake includes a steep ascent along a large scree. After crossing the cliffs, we will find ourselves at a magnificent Seven-colored lake hidden in a huge stone bowl.

The rainbow color of the lake's water seems to be a miracle of nature — glowing in different shades, it fascinates with its beauty. All the magic of this place depends on perspective and lighting, but the colors of the water always remain bright and saturated.

The duration is 7-8 hours. The distance is 12 km, the elevation difference is 700 m.

Today, our route will pass through the territory of the Arkhyz section of the Teberdinsky Nature Reserve. After about 1.5 km, we will come to a clearing with a magnificent waterfall that breaks off from red rocks right in the middle of the forest.

Then, after walking another 1.5 km, the road will turn into a trail and begin a steep climb, first through a coniferous forest with century-old fir trees, then through a birch woodland. The trail leads to the Arkhyz saddle pass, but we will need to turn onto a well-marked path to the right a little before it.

In half an hour we will reach the lake, where you can relax, have lunch and even swim in the cold but refreshing water. All the beauty of this unusual lake opens from above, so we can climb a little higher to admire its shape and the surrounding landscape.

The most motivated participants will continue their journey with one of the instructors to climb to the top of Krasnaya Mountain, 2,677 meters high.

In the evening, around the campfire, we will reward all the climbers with beautiful commemorative badges.

The length is about 5 km, we will spend about 6-7 hours on it, including time for rest and lunch. The ascent to the top from the lake is 2-2.5 hours, the descent is 40 minutes.

Today we will embark on an exciting adventure and climb the Lunar Express cable car to an altitude of 2240 meters.

First, we will walk along the trail, then climb the scree to the highest peak in our program — Dinnik Peak. This is one of the best panoramic points of Arkhyz. The peak is named after the first scientist and researcher of the nature of Arkhyz and its surroundings.

From the top of Dinnik Peak, we can enjoy stunning views of the Arkhyz highlands and even Elbrus.

The ascent from the upper station of the cable car takes about 2-3 hours along a trail with a height difference of about 700 m. The route length is approximately 9 km.

The morning passes in the usual sporty way.

After breakfast, we will hold a closing ceremony for the Mountain Camp and present gifts and certificates to the children and their parents.

On the way we will stop at the thermal springs, relax in the warm water before going home.

You will arrive in Mineralnye Vody at about 16:00.