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From Gudauri to see Mt. Kazbek

Route to Kazbek Summit

The route to one of the most impressive summits in the Caucasus Mountains takes about half an hour by car from Gudauri via the paved road through Jvari (Cross) Pass to the village of Stepanstminda.

Mount Kazbek stands at 5,038 meters high and attracts hundreds of mountaineers from around the world during the summer season. Reaching the summit typically requires 4 to 6 days (depending on acclimatization) to ascend and return to Stepanstminda—a traditional Georgian village.

For trail runners, reaching the summit isn't the goal; instead, you can run to the beginning of the Gergety Glacier. The route is technically easy but requires significant stamina and effort, with an average climb of 170-200 meters per kilometer. The total round trip is approximately 15-17 km.

Every September, Traillab.ge organizes a trail running competition (14, 18, and 30 km), providing a great opportunity to explore this route on your own.

Route Details:

  • Starting Point: Parking near the impressive Gergety Sameba Church (2,160 meters)
  • Initial Climb: Steep path ascending about 100 meters
  • Path Description: A mix of steep and flat sections, leading to Sabertce Pass (2,800 meters), where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the valley, the Gergety Glacier, and the summit.
  • Options: You can either stop at the pass and return or continue along the moraine route to the glacier.

This run offers a blend of steep and flat terrain, with both technical and smooth surfaces, making it an excellent training opportunity for ascending and descending.

And did we mention the views? They are absolutely fantastic!
Itinerary: to Gergety Glacier

Starting Point: Stepanstminda

  • Transportation: You can reach the starting point by car or on foot.
  • By Car: Approximately 20 minutes from Stepanstminda to the parking area.
  • By Foot: A scenic 1-hour run or hike.

Route Overview:

  • Initial Ascent:
  • From the church, expect a 1 to 2-hour run or hike to Sabertce Pass.
  • Another 1 to 2 hours of hiking or running will take you to the glacier.

Key Details:
  • Total Distance: 15-17 km
  • Surface:
  • Grassy hills with boulders leading up to Sabertce Pass.
  • Moraine surface beyond the pass.
  • Be prepared to cross creeks during the summer season.

Elevation:
  • Starting at 2,160 meters (parking area)
  • Climbing to 3,321 meters (Gergety Glacier)
  • Total Climb: 1,400 meters
  • Facilities:
  • During the summer season, a hut along the way to the glacier offers a small café, spring water, and shelter if needed.

  • Difficulty: Medium
  • The area can be quite windy, so it's recommended to bring:
  • Hat or bandana
  • Gloves (especially for autumn)
  • Puffy jacket
  • Gore-Tex jacket
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