The 10 Must-Visit Hiking Destinations in the Almaty Mountains
MONTE ALMATY
Explore the best hiking trails in the Almaty Mountains of Zaili Alatau. From serene alpine lakes to breathtaking peaks, discover the highlights, challenges, and unforgettable experiences these trails offer.
Why Explore Almaty’s Zaili Alatau Mountains?
The Zaili Alatau range is a gem of Central Asia, offering diverse landscapes: turquoise lakes, glaciers, panoramic peaks, and lush meadows. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a beginner, these trails provide stunning views and fresh mountain air, making them an unforgettable adventure.
Each location comes with its own charm, making Almaty a bucket-list destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Below, you’ll find the top 10 hiking trails, complete with practical details for planning your trip.
Each location comes with its own charm, making Almaty a bucket-list destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Below, you’ll find the top 10 hiking trails, complete with practical details for planning your trip.
- Big Almaty Lake
This iconic lake is one of Almaty’s top attractions. Its mirror-like surface reflects surrounding peaks, offering a postcard-perfect view. It changes its color depending on season
READ MORE - Season: May–October
- Distance: 6 km (one way)
- Elevation Gain: 800 m
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Clear waters, panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, perfect for hikers with small experience.
2. Terra Glade
A tranquil meadow surrounded by dense forest, perfect for picnics and nature lovers.
READ MORE - Season: May–December
- Distance: 5.5 km (one way)
- Elevation Gain: 950 m
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Family-friendly trail, wildflowers in summer, great spot for relaxation.
3. Wolf Mountain
This iconic lake is one of Almaty’s top attractions. Its mirror-like surface reflects surrounding peaks, offering a postcard-perfect view. It changes its color depending on season
READ MORE - Season: all year round, but sometimes too hot in July-August, autumn prefferable
- Distance: 10 km (round trip)
- Elevation Gain: 1000 m
- Difficulty: above average
- Highlights: Beautiful views, Tien Shan forest, in autumn you can come across wild apple trees, ridge route, which makes it safe in the avalanche-prone winter period.
4. Kok-Zhailau
One of the most popular trails near Almaty, offering a mix of forest, meadow, and mountain scenery.
READ MORE - Season: April–November
- Distance: 5 km (one way)
- Elevation Gain: 900 m
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: Spectacular meadow views, a variety of landscapes, and vibrant autumn colors, waterfall "Battery"
5. Four-peaks round hike
An adventurous circuit offering stunning vistas of the Small Almaty Gorge. Super powerful hike traverses four peaks: Furmanovka (3053m), Panorama (3260m), Bashuta (3355m), and Shymbulak (3460m).
READ MORE - Season: May-February
- Distance: 13 km (loop)
- Elevation Gain: 2,000 m
- Difficulty: Very Hard
- Highlights: Perfect for experienced hikers seeking a challenge, diverse terrain.
6. Butakovskiy Waterfall
The hike to Butakovsky Waterfall via Kim-Asar Pass goes through the forest, past a camping area, and into the gorge where a new visitor center is currently being built. It is quite a popular destination, so it is recommended to visit on weekdays.
READ MORE - Season: May-February
- Distance: 6,2 km one way but can be
- Elevation Gain: 950 m
- Difficulty: easy to moderate
- Highlights: Waterfall, Tyan-Shan Forest, Birch Grove
7. Mountain Swings
For a unique and Instagrammable experience, hike to these playful swings with a stunning backdrop.
READ MORE - Season: Year-round
- Distance: 4 km (one way)
- Elevation Gain: 1000 m
- Difficulty: Easy-moderate
- Highlights: Fun and scenic, great for family outings and photo ops.
8. Bukreyev Peak
A scenic trail leading to one of the most photogenic summits near Almaty.
READ MORE - Season: May–January
- Distance: 12.2 km
- Elevation Gain: 1820 m
- Difficulty: Very hard
- Highlights: Serene mountain views, perfect for experienced hikers
9. Titov Lake
Hidden away in the mountains, this peaceful lake is a serene escape for hikers.
READ MORE - Season: May-November
- Distance: 20 km
- Elevation Gain: 1,500 m
- Difficulty: Hard
- Highlights: Secluded location, pristine alpine environment, great for solitude seekers.
10. Tuyuksu-1 Glaciological Station
For an adventurous high-altitude hike, Tuyuksu Glacier offers a taste of rocky and glacier views.
READ MORE - Season: May–January
- Distance: 17 km
- Elevation Gain: 1,250 m
- Difficulty: Hard
- Highlights: Glacier views, high-altitude adventure, suitable for experienced hikers.
Discover Mountains with Monte Almaty
top hiking trails in Almaty
This selection of the top hiking trails in the Almaty Mountains is based on our extensive experience and feedback from countless travelers. These locations have been chosen for their unique beauty, accessibility, and the unforgettable experiences they offer.
We are excited to offer guided tours to all these destinations in Almaty mountains, ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure for every participant. Our professional guides will not only lead the way but also share valuable insights about the region, making your journey even more memorable.
Choose any of these hikes in Almaty mountains, and we’ll take care of your safety and comfort, leaving you free to immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant emotions that only the Almaty Mountains can provide. Let us help you create your next adventure!
We are excited to offer guided tours to all these destinations in Almaty mountains, ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure for every participant. Our professional guides will not only lead the way but also share valuable insights about the region, making your journey even more memorable.
Choose any of these hikes in Almaty mountains, and we’ll take care of your safety and comfort, leaving you free to immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant emotions that only the Almaty Mountains can provide. Let us help you create your next adventure!