Top 17 Trails and Hikes in Almaty 2024: A Guide to Adventure!

. Best Trails and Hikes in Almaty

1. Big Almaty Lake Trail

Distance: Approximately 15 kilometers round trip.

Difficulty: Moderate.

Highlight: This trail takes you to the stunning Big Almaty Lake, located about 2,511 meters above sea level. The path is well-marked, but the altitude and some steep sections make it a bit challenging. The views of the turquoise lake surrounded by mountains make it worth the effort.

2. Kok Tobe Hill

Distance: About 5 kilometers round trip if you start from the base.

Difficulty: Easy.

Highlight: Kok Tobe Hill is a popular, easy hike that takes you to a hilltop with a fun park, restaurants, and a TV tower. The trail is relatively short and not too steep, making it perfect for families and beginners. The panoramic view of Almaty from the top is spectacular.

3. Medeu to Shymbulak Trail

ice skating rink to the Shymbulak ski resort. The hike is moderately difficult and takes you through beautiful mountainous terrain. Along the way, you will pass through forests and meadows, offering a variety of landscapes. This trail is perfect for those looking for a mix of hiking and adventure. It is among the best trails and hikes in Almaty.

Distance: Around 10 kilometers one way.

Difficulty: Moderate.

Highlight: This trail connects the famous Medeu ice skating rink with the Shymbulak ski resort. It takes you through beautiful mountainous terrain, forests, and meadows. The elevation gain and length make it a moderate hike, suitable for those looking for a bit of a challenge.

4.  Butakovka Waterfall

Distance: Approximately 8 kilometers round trip.Difficulty: Moderate.Highlight: The hike to Butakovka Waterfall is a favorite among locals and visitors. The trail is moderately difficult with some steep sections but rewards you with a stunning waterfall hidden in the mountains. It’s especially beautiful in spring and early summer.

5. Kok Zhailau Plateau

Distance: About 14 kilometers round trip.Difficulty: Hard.Highlight: This is a more challenging hike that takes you to the Kok Zhailau Plateau. The trail is steep and requires good fitness, but the views from the plateau are incredible. It’s a great spot for hiking and camping tours in Almaty.

Hiking Trails in Almaty for Beginners

Almaty also offers several trails that are perfect for beginners. These trails are shorter and less strenuous but still provide beautiful scenery and a great outdoor experience.

6. First President’s Park

Distance: Varies, with many short walking paths.Difficulty: Easy.Highlight: This park offers gentle walking routes and trails in Almaty, perfect for families and those looking for a walk. The well-maintained paths and beautiful scenery make it a relaxing place to walk.

7. Botanical Garden

Distance: Varies, with several short trails within the garden.Difficulty: Easy.Highlight: The Botanical Garden offers easy walking trails that showcase the diverse flora of the region. It’s a peaceful place for a short walk and learning about local plants.

8. Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen

Distance: Varies, with several short paths in the park.Difficulty: Easy.Highlight: This historic park in the city center is perfect for a short, easy walk. It features monuments and a beautiful cathedral, making it an interesting place to explore.

Best Hiking Trails in Almaty for Experienced Hikers

For those looking for a more challenging adventure, Almaty has several trails that will test your endurance and hiking skills.

9. Furmanov Peak

Distance: About 11 kilometers round trip.Difficulty: Hard.Highlight: Furmanov Peak is one of the best hiking trails in Almaty for experienced hikers. The trail is steep and demanding but offers stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains from the peak.

10. Talgar Pass

Distance: Approximately 20 kilometers round trip.Difficulty: Hard.Highlight: The hike to Talgar Pass is challenging and takes you high into the mountains. The rugged terrain and elevation gain make it a tough hike, but the beautiful views are worth it.

11. Pik Kumbel

Distance: About 18 kilometers round trip.

Difficulty: Hard.

Highlight: Pik Kumbel is a demanding hike that takes you to one of the highest points in the region. The trail is steep and requires a good level of fitness. The views from the top are incredible, making it a rewarding hike.

Hiking and Camping Tours in Almaty

Almaty is a great place for hiking and camping tours. These tours are perfect for those who want to explore the region’s natural beauty and spend the night under the stars.

12. Alma-Arasan Gorge

The Alma-Arasan Gorge is a popular destination for hiking and camping tours in Almaty. The gorge offers beautiful scenery, including rivers, waterfalls, and lush forests. There are several campsites along the way, making it a great spot for an overnight adventure. It is among the best trails and hikes in Almaty.

Distance: Varies, with several trails ranging from 5 to 15 kilometers.

Difficulty: Moderate to Hard.

Highlight: Alma-Arasan Gorge offers beautiful scenery with rivers, waterfalls, and green forests. It’s a popular spot for hiking and camping tours in Almaty, with several trails of varying difficulty.

13. Kolsai Lakes

Distance: Around 25 kilometers for the full hike through all three lakes.

Difficulty: Moderate.

Highlight: The Kolsai Lakes offer stunning alpine scenery. The trails around the lakes are moderate in difficulty, with some steep sections, and are perfect for hiking and camping.

14. Turgen Gorge

Distance: Varies, with several trails ranging from 5 to 20 kilometers.

Difficulty: Moderate to Hard.

Highlight: Turgen Gorge is known for its waterfalls, hot springs, and diverse flora and fauna. The area offers several trails of varying difficulty, making it a great spot for a multi-day hiking and camping trip.

Top Hikes in Almaty

When it comes to the top hikes in Almaty, several trails stand out. These hikes offer stunning views, diverse landscapes, and an unforgettable experience. Some of the top hikes in Almaty include the Big Almaty Lake Trail, Kok Tobe Hill, and the Medeu to Shymbulak Trail. These hikes are popular for a reason – they showcase the best of Almaty’s natural beauty and provide an excellent outdoor adventure activity in Almaty.

Hiking Spots Near Almaty

In addition to the trails within the city, several hiking spots near Almaty are worth exploring. These spots offer a chance to experience the region’s natural beauty without traveling too far from the city.

15. Ile-Alatau National Park

Distance: Varies, with many trails ranging from short walks to long hikes.

Difficulty: Easy to Hard.

Highlight: Ile-Alatau National Park is a vast area with numerous hiking trails. The park’s diverse wildlife, forests, and high peaks make it one of the best hiking spots near Almaty. You can also stay in some of the best homestays in Almaty and explore. 

Suggested Read: Festivals and Events in Almaty

16. Charyn Canyon

Distance: Varies, with several short trails within the canyon.

Difficulty: Moderate.

Highlight: Charyn Canyon offers unique and breathtaking landscapes. The hiking trails here are moderate and take you through the stunning canyon, making it perfect for a day trip from Almaty.

17. Tamgaly Tas

Distance: Varies, with several short trails around the site.Difficulty: Easy to Moderate.Highlight: Tamgaly Tas is an archaeological site with ancient rock carvings and beautiful natural surroundings. The trails are easy to moderate and provide a mix of cultural and natural exploration.

. Walking Routes and Trails in Almaty

1. Green Bazaar to Panfilov Park

This walking route takes you from the Green Bazaar, a lively market in Almaty, to Panfilov Park. The route is easy and offers a chance to experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere and historic landmarks.

2. Arbat Street

Arbat Street is a pedestrian street in the heart of Almaty. It’s lined with shops, cafes in Almaty, and street performers, making it a great place for a leisurely walk and to experience the local culture.  It is the best place for shopping in Almaty. 

3. Central Park

Central Park, also known as Gorky Park, is one of the oldest parks in Almaty. The park offers several walking trails, a lake, and various attractions, making it a great place for a relaxing day out. You must explore some of the best party places in Almaty for your night-out plans. 

. Safety Tips for Hiking in Almaty

1. Check the Weather: Always check the weather forecast before heading out on a hike. The weather in the mountains can change rapidly, so it’s essential to be prepared.

2. Wear Appropriate Gear: Make sure to wear sturdy hiking boots, and weather-appropriate clothing, and bring a hat and sunscreen. It’s also a good idea to carry a map, compass, and a first aid kit.

3. Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water and stay hydrated throughout your hike. It’s also a good idea to carry some snacks for energy.

4. Hike with a Partner: It’s safer to hike with a partner or a group, especially on more challenging trails. If you do hike alone, make sure to let someone know your plans and expected return time.

5. Respect Nature: Stay on marked trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and pack out all your trash. Respect the natural environment to help preserve it for future generations. In conclusion, Almaty’s trails and hikes offer a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Kazakhstan. Whether you’re exploring the best trails and hikes in Almaty, embarking on a challenging trek, or enjoying a leisurely walk, you’ll find that this region has something special to offer. So, get out there and discover the stunning hiking trails in Almaty!

Enjoy Your Hike!