Route program
Group Meeting and Equipment Check
Gather, take attendance, and check the equipment and water supply.
At the bus stopTransfer to the Eco-Post
After meet, the group takes a transfer to the second eco-post, where the walking part of the route begins.
Meeting point → second eco-post in Alma-ArasanStart of the Hike and Ascent to Moon Meadow
Start moving toward Shukur Gorge. The route follows a road and forest trail with a gradual elevation gain. At Moon Meadow, we stop to rest, take photos, and have a snack.
Second eco-post → “Alpine Rose” → Moon MeadowHike to Shukur Waterfall
We continue climbing through the forest and rocky sections along the mountain stream. As we approach the waterfall, the gorge becomes narrower, and parts of the trail pass over wet rocks.
Moon Meadow → Shukur Gorge → waterfallRest Stop at Shukur Waterfall
Reach the main destination of the hike, rest, have a snack, and take photos. It can be noticeably cooler near the waterfall, so a windbreaker will be useful. You can also bring flip-flops if there is no river crossing.
Shukur WaterfallHobbit Waterfall, Descent, and Transfer
On the way back, we visit Hobbit Waterfall and then return to the second eco-post. From there, the transfer takes the group back to the meeting point. You can swim in the waterfall’s natural pool, so bring swimwear if you wish.
Shukur Waterfall → Hobbit Waterfall → second eco-postDescription
Shukur Waterfall is located in the gorge of the same name near Big Almaty Lake. It is also known as Chukur Waterfall, so both names may appear in descriptions and on maps.
The main destination of the hike is Shukur Waterfall, located at an altitude of approximately 2,670 m above sea level. The water flows down a rocky ledge in a narrow part of the gorge, where it is usually cooler than on the open slopes. Even in early summer, snow and compact avalanche debris may remain near the waterfall.
Route From the Second Eco-Post
The hike starts at the second eco-post on the road toward Big Almaty Lake. The route first heads toward the Alpine Rose complex before entering Shukur Gorge.
The first sections follow a road and a clearly visible trail. The route then begins a gradual ascent through mountain forest and open terrain. It is not a technical climbing route, but it requires endurance because of the long distance and elevation gain.
Moon Meadow
Moon Meadow is one of the main stops on the way to Shukur Waterfall. It is a wide open area surrounded by mountain slopes and coniferous forest. The meadow has rest areas, gazebos, and a tourist hut.
Moon Meadow is a good place for a short break before continuing the ascent. From here, the route continues through a small forest deeper into the gorge. After the forest, the wide road gradually turns into a narrower rocky trail.
Ascent to Shukur Waterfall
From Moon Meadow, approximately 1-1.5 km remains to the waterfall. The trail follows the riverbed and gradually enters a narrow gorge. Some sections contain large rocks, wet surfaces, and traces of avalanche debris.
Shukur Waterfall is located near a rocky cliff deep inside the gorge. You can take a break, have a snack, and take photos here. It remains cool near the water even in warm weather, so it is advisable to bring a windbreaker or an additional layer of clothing.
Take care when approaching remaining snow and ice. Cavities washed out by mountain water may be hidden underneath.
Hobbit Waterfall on the Return Route
After visiting Shukur Waterfall, the group returns toward the second eco-post. On the way back, the route includes a visit to Hobbit Waterfall in Almaty, also known as the Gulyaev Mountain Pool.
The waterfall is located in a separate rocky section of the Big Almaty Gorge. The trail follows the water and may be wet or slippery in places. This additional stop makes the route more varied: in one day, participants visit the open Moon Meadow, the cool Shukur Gorge, and Hobbit Waterfall hidden among the rocks.
Distance, Elevation Gain, and Duration
Starting and finishing at the second eco-post, with visits to Moon Meadow, Shukur Waterfall, and Hobbit Waterfall, the approximate route details are:
Distance - approximately 15-16 km round trip.
Elevation gain - approximately +850-950 m.
Elevation of Shukur Waterfall - approximately 2,670 m above sea level.
Duration - approximately 5–6 hours, including breaks.
Difficulty - moderate.
The exact figures depend on the starting point, chosen trails, and length of the stops.
Who Is This Hike Suitable For?
The route is suitable for active beginners with a reasonable level of fitness and hikers who have already completed full-day routes longer than 10 km. For a first mountain outing, the route may be tiring because of the long ascent and rocky sections.
Participants will need trekking shoes or boots with a pronounced tread. It is also worth bringing water, a snack, a windbreaker, a rain jacket, a hat, and sun protection. Trekking poles can help during long ascents and descents.
Why Choose This Route?
Shukur Waterfall in Almaty is the main destination, but the hike is interesting for more than just its final point. Along the way, participants pass through Moon Meadow, coniferous forest, a mountain gorge, and several natural zones.
Visiting Hobbit Waterfall on the return route makes it possible to see another unusual location without arranging a separate hike. The result is a varied route through the Almaty mountains with two waterfalls, scenic photo locations, and a solid physical challenge.
