Can you drive across Lake Baikal?
Russia, europe
N/A
N/A
hard
Year-round
Ever dreamt of driving across the world's deepest lake? Head to Siberia's Lake Baikal and you might just get your chance! Every winter, when the ice gods allow, a 12 km (7.5 mi) ice road magically appears, connecting the mainland to Olkhon Island, a rugged paradise with insane lake views.
Prime time for this icy adventure? Early February to late March, when the ice is a meter thick (or more!). Seriously, the ice is so clear, you can spot the lake bottom beneath your tires!
This surreal route starts near the village of Kurkut in the Irkutsk Oblast, and takes you east to Irkutskaya Guba on Olkhon Island. But is it open? Usually yes, during February and March, but only if the ice is at least 60 cm (24 in) thick. And keep in mind, it's a daytime affair, generally 9 am to 6 pm. You might see trucks rumbling along — this road is seriously strong, able to hold massive vehicles when the ice is thick enough!
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