Mynzhylky Tract
The Mynzhylky Tract is a spacious valley situated at an elevation of 3000 meters (9800 ft) above sea level in the Ile Alatau Mountains. Its name, "Mynzhylky," is derived from the Kazakh language and translates to "a thousand horses," hinting at its historical use as a pasture.
Within the tract, you'll find a protective mudflow dam and a weather station that has been in continuous operation since 1936. If you venture past the dam, you'll be treated to a breathtaking view of the Tuyuksu Glacier, Ordzhonikidze Peak, and scenic alpine meadows. On clear, cloudless days, ascending to higher elevations provides splendid vistas of peaks such as Titov, Lokomotiv, Zoya Kosmodemyanskaya, and Molodezhny, among others.
Mynzhylky offers an easy route to reach the Alpengrad base camp, which serves as a launching pad for most treks and ascents to the Bogdanovich Glacier, Pioneer Peak, Manshuk Mametova Peak, and more.
The Mynzhylky Tract falls within the jurisdiction of the Ile-Alatau National Park. Experts recommend planning your visit between May and October, as early spring, autumn, and winter seasons are susceptible to snowfall and avalanches. When venturing into the mountains, ensure you're appropriately dressed, as the air is cool, strong winds are common, and the trails can be challenging, often requiring specialized equipment.
How to get there?
The tract lies approximately 30 km (19 mi) away from the center of Almaty. The most straightforward route to reach it is via Kerey-Zhanibek Khandar Street (formerly known as Gornaya Street). This road leads you past the Medeu Skating Rink and the Shymbulak Ski Resort before arriving at the Tuyuk-Su alpine camp, which is roughly 4 km (2.5 mi) away from the tract. Beyond the alpine camp, the smooth asphalt road gives way to a mountain trail.
Other tourist attractions near the Mynzhylky Tract:
- Oktyabrskaya Cave
- Manshuk Mametova Lake
- Gorelnik Gorge
- Kok Jailau Plateau
- Kimasar Gorge
- Butakov Waterfalls
- Kumbel Peak
Recommended tours:
View all offers_420x650_4ab.jpg "Butakov Waterfalls Trekking Tour")
On request
Butakov Waterfalls can be found in the Ile Alatau Mountains near Almaty. The breathtaking scenery, pristine air, and refreshing coolness have been drawing tourists to this location for quite some time.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Bogdanovich Glacier Trekking Tour")
On request
Embark on a trek to the Bogdanovich Glacier, the closest glacier to the city of Almaty. Enjoy a magnificent view of the surrounding peaks from the glacier's observation point.
On request
Situated at an altitude of 3600 meters above sea level, this frigid and desolate lake boasts a depth of 30 meters. The lake is encompassed by stunning mountain peaks, creating an exceptionally beautiful panorama from all directions.
On request
An easy trekking route suitable for all, including adults and children. Discover Shukur waterfalls and Big Almaty Lake, nestled amid towering mountains and coniferous forests.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Boukreev Peak Trekking Tour")
On request
An easy circular trekking route leading to Boukreev Peak in the Ile Alatau Mountains. Spanning 17 kilometers and designed for a one-day adventure, this trail begins at the Almatau tourist base in the Kotyrbulak gorge.
On request
Trekking to the Gorelnik Gorge is a highly favored adventure for tourists and trekking enthusiasts alike. The gorge boasts stunning scenery with abundant trees, mushrooms, and berries. If lucky, one might even encounter the wild inhabitants of the area, including mountain deer.
On request
Left Talgar Gorge is a scenic location adorned with flourishing meadows and dense coniferous forests. The hiking trail starts at the Medeu Skating Rink and culminates at the highest point of the Shymbulak Ski Resort.
On request
This route unveils the diverse contrasts and beauties of the Ile Alatau Mountains. Highlights include a visit to the Shymbulak Ski Resort, lunch in a traditional Kazakh yurt, crossing a glacier, witnessing the stunning Big Almaty Lake, and the unique opportunity to swim in a pond created by the Shukur Waterfall.