Highlights
- Hike to Big Almaty Lake on a scenic trail through Moon Glade
- Discover the hidden Shukur Waterfall, a lesser-known gem
- Enjoy a unique perspective of the turquoise lake from above
- Benefit from a shuttle ride to the trailhead and back to the city
- Experience a medium-difficulty hike with a 350-meter elevation gain
Description
Begin your hike at the Alpine Rose Hotel, located at an elevation of 2,250 meters. From here, enter Moon Glade, a broad open meadow that feels nothing like the rocky switchbacks most tourists associate with the Big Almaty Lake area. Enjoy the quiet, wide meadow and, on a clear morning, admire the striking light across the grass.
From the meadow, follow the trail into an overgrown gorge. The path narrows, and stone embankments appear on both sides. These are old Soviet-era irrigation structures, now mostly swallowed by vegetation. After about an hour of steady climbing, reach Shukur Waterfall at around 2,600 meters, a hidden gem that most people visiting Big Almaty Lake have never heard of.
The final section follows a ridgeline down to Big Almaty Lake itself. Arrive from above, which gives you a view of the turquoise water most photos don't show. After your hike, descend back to the city by vehicle, without retracing your steps.
Includes
Hiking trail from Edelweiss Hotel to Big Almaty Lake
Visit to Moon Glade
Visit to Shukur Waterfall
View of Big Almaty Lake from above
Aerial video and photo
Photos and video
Important Information
- The hike is medium difficulty and involves a 350 m elevation gain
- The trail is accessible year-round
- The descent back to the city is by vehicle, no retracing steps
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
