How to Get by Car to the Abandoned Terskol Ice Base?
Russia, europe
11.9 km
2,166 m
easy
Year-round
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Ready to tackle one of Europe's highest and wildest roads? Head to the heart of Russia, near the Georgian border, in the regions of Kabardino-Balkaria and Karachay–Cherkessia, and aim for the abandoned Terskol Ice Base. We're talking a staggering 3,675m (12,057ft) above sea level!
The area is drop-dead gorgeous, with the Terskol Glacier calling all hikers and climbers. Keep an eye out for memorials to WWII soldiers and spooky abandoned buildings – this place has history etched into its landscape.
Starting from Terskol (already at a lofty 2,166m), brace yourself for a 11.9 km climb. In that relatively short distance, you'll gain a whopping 1,509 meters in elevation. That's an average gradient of almost 13%, with some seriously butt-clenching sections hitting 18%!
Nestled in the western Caucasus, this track is strictly for summer thrill-seekers (July-August). It's completely unpaved, so a 4x4 with high clearance is non-negotiable. Trust me, this road will test your skills and your ride. The scenery is incredible, with stunning waterfalls cascading down the mountainside, but the steepness and rugged terrain mean you should definitely NOT be a beginner. And seriously, don't go it alone. It's easy to lose the path, so hook up with a guide through the local tourist office. Let's get those tires dirty!
Where is it?
How to Get by Car to the Abandoned Terskol Ice Base? is located in Russia (europe). Coordinates: 55.4800, 38.3437
Road Details
- Country
- Russia
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 11.9 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,166 m
- Difficulty
- easy
- Coordinates
- 55.4800, 38.3437
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