Trip Towards Kazbek
Date: July 1 (Wednesday)
Meeting time and place: departure at 10:00, location to be agreed upon
Transport: traveling by cars (if available)
Total distance: 1100 km.
Routes:
1. Juta: 9 km, 450 meters ascent and descent
https://www.komoot.com/tour/3063332517
2. Foot of Kazbek: 8 km, 800 meters ascent and descent (fast ones can go to the glacier)
https://www.komoot.com/tour/3051297021
3. Truso Valley: 23 km, 450 meters ascent and descent (can be shortened by 10 km if the driver agrees)
https://www.komoot.com/tour/2967126899
Plan:
Day 1. We move leisurely towards the base camp. We will stay in Gudauri. The road takes about 6 hours, with stops at top spots: Jinvali Reservoir, Ananuri Fortress, the confluence of the White and Black Aragvi rivers, and other beautiful points along the Military-Georgian Road. We will have lunch on the way at a roadside cafe. Then we check in. If there is energy and desire, you can walk to the Friendship of Peoples Arch or climb a nearby viewpoint to watch the sunset.
Day 2. We go to the village of Juta — one of the most picturesque mountain villages in Georgia. From here, we will head to the Chaukhi massif, often called the Georgian Dolomites. Island-like rock towers, alpine meadows, mountain streams, and panoramas that are hard to tear your eyes away from. On the way, we will take a break at the famous Fifth Season camp — one of the most atmospheric places in the Georgian mountains.
Day 3. We go to Stepantsminda and head to the foot of Kazbek — one of the most famous and beautiful peaks of the Caucasus. We will approach the Gergeti Church, standing against the huge mountain like a postcard. Beyond that — endless views, glaciers, and the feeling of true high mountain air. The depth of the lake is still unknown.
Day 4. We return to Truso — a place that looks more like Iceland than familiar Georgia. Here mineral springs burst from the ground, slopes are covered with emerald grass, and among the meadows are abandoned Ossetian villages and ancient towers. We will visit the famous mineral lake Abano, whose water bubbles and shimmers with bright blue shades. The depth of the lake is still unknown.