Exploring Ile Alatau's Mountain Peaks
Around Almaty, you'll find a cluster of awe-inspiring mountain peaks that are part of the Ile Alatau range. Some are named after famous individuals, while others carry the monikers of local landmarks or cities. The sight of these peaks is mesmerizing, as the beauty of the rugged terrain stirs the adventurous spirit in all who behold it.
The crown jewel is Talgar Peak, rising to about 5017 meters (16460 ft). Surpassing even Mont Blanc of the Alps, Talgar Peak reigns as the tallest point in the vicinity. Crowned with the Korzhenevsky Glacier, it's an emblem of both grandeur and challenge. In 1938, the first climbers conquered its heights. The ascent to the southern peak's western wall is particularly demanding. On clear days, the three-headed Talgar Peak is visible from the streets of Almaty, capturing the imagination of climbers new and seasoned.
Big Almaty Peak (3680 m – 12073 ft) is another highlight, easily visible from the city. It beckons both beginners and those without specialized training, promising breathtaking views on a clear day.
Nursultan Peak (4376 m – 14357 ft), formerly Almaty Peak, pays homage to Kazakhstan's inaugural president. The annual Nursultan alpiniade, held in July, invites everyone in good health to partake.
Named after a renowned climber, Boukreev Peak's elevation just exceeds 3000 meters (8943 ft). At its summit, a bell and commemorative plaque honor Anatoli Boukreev, a Kazakhstani mountaineer celebrated for ascending ten of the world's fourteen eight-thousander peaks.
The ascent to Molodezhny Peak, a four-thousander, is a favorite among rock climbers.
Furmanov Peak, standing at 3053 m (10016 ft), is situated in the Kimasar Gorge, offering a conquerable challenge for both novices and professionals. Named after a notable politician and revolutionary, reaching the top takes around five hours and rewards with panoramic views and the Heavenly Swings, perfect for whimsical photos.
Easily approached, Kumbel Peak (3228 m – 10590 ft) treats climbers to a splendid panorama of neighboring peaks, the city, and valleys. The Kok Jailau Plateau and Gorelnik Gorge offer popular routes.
Seven Needles Tuyuk-Su stands out with its distinctive comb-like shape, boasting seven «needles». Ascending from the seventh to the first needle presents a truly special experience at 4213 meters (13822 ft).
Abai Peak (4010 m – 13156 ft), nestled in Ile-Alatau National Park near the Shymbulak Ski Resort, is a rocky gem with three summits. It was first conquered in 1932 by Almaty climbers. It's noteworthy that in 1995, the first president of Kazakhstan, Nursultan Nazarbayev, ascended Abai Peak with the guidance of Anatoli Boukreev.
Tuyuk-Su Gate Peak (3855 m – 12648 ft) in the Small Almaty Gorge is best reached from Shymbulak Ski Resort, boasting a curious television antenna at its summit. From here, you'll enjoy splendid views of Mynzhylky Tract, the weather station, and the dam.
Peaks like Turan, Tourist, and Titov have their own tales to tell in separate articles. The smallest peak, Kok-Tobe, stands at 1130 meters (3707 ft) and hosts the famed Kok-Tobe Park and TV tower.
Among the lofty summits, Fizkulturnik (4068 m – 13346 ft), Yoshkar-Ola (3950 m – 12960 ft), Karlytau (4150 m – 13615 ft), Tereshkova (3420 m – 11220 ft), Chkalov (4892 m – 16050 ft), and others carve their mark.
In the embrace of these peaks lies a memorial for those who lost their lives in the mountains. This unassuming plaque, tucked behind towering fir trees, honors fallen climbers and reminds us of nature's might.
10 tips to enjoy the mountains safely
- Educate yourself on your chosen route, accounting for danger zones and potential hazards.
- Keep an eye on the weather.
- Dress appropriately (comfortable trekking shoes and clothes, you will probably need special equipment, trekking sticks, etc.). Dress brightly so that you can be clearly seen from afar
- If new, explore with a guide.
- Pack food, water, a first aid kit, a flashlight, a powerbank, and sunscreen.
- Let someone know your plans.
- Avoid risky areas like scree slopes and moraine lakes.
- Heed avalanche warnings.
- Respect nature - no littering or fires in wrong places.
- Choose a safe spot for your tent, away from cliffs, river banks, and windward exposure.
These precautions, accompanied by expert guidance, ensure your mountain journey is a success. In this realm of trekking and climbing, you'll undoubtedly experience the mountains' true beauty.
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