Big Ala-Archa Glacier Trek: 3,400m above Bishkek

The Big Ala-Archa Glacier is one of the largest glaciers in northern Kyrgyzstan, sitting deep in Ala-Archa Gorge, 51 km south of Bishkek.

The glacier tongue reaches down to around 3,128 m, and near its base — at 3,400–3,500 m — stand the ruins of a Soviet-era high-altitude ski base, once used year-round by the national Olympic team. The two-storey dormitory and canteen have been abandoned for over 25 years, and today they're one of the most evocative stops on the route.

The trail starts from Ala-Archa alpine camp (2,100 m) and covers approximately 16 km one way with over 1,300 m of elevation gain. The path climbs through spruce and juniper forest, across alpine meadows, moraines and open rocky terrain. A glacial moraine lake marks one of the high points along the way.

This is a challenging route suited to physically fit hikers with experience of long mountain days.

⚠️ Please note: departure is at 3:00 AM. Trekking poles and a minimum of 3–4 litres of water per person are mandatory.

What to Expect

• Ala-Archa National Park — spruce forest, alpine meadows, moraines
• Big Ala-Archa Glacier (tongue at ~3,128 m)
• Abandoned Soviet high-altitude ski base (~3,400–3,500 m)
• Glacial moraine lake
• Panoramic views of the Kyrgyz Ala-Too ridge

Difficulty

Challenging. 16 km one way, 1,300+ m elevation gain, pre-dawn start. Recommended for experienced hikers with solid mountain fitness.

Included

• Transfer
• Professional guide

Not Included

• Food and water
• National park entry — 200 KGS per person
• Personal expenses

What to Bring

• Sturdy trekking boots with a non-slip sole (mandatory)
• Trekking or ski poles (mandatory)
• Fleece / hoodie, windproof jacket, trekking trousers
• Rain jacket
• Warm hat, gloves / mittens, extra socks
• Buff, balaclava or scarf
• Gaiters
• Headlamp (pre-dawn departure)
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Personal first aid kit
• Water — minimum 3–4 litres per person
• Light snacks (nuts, dried fruit, sweets) + heavier food for rest stops (sandwiches, cheese, vegetables)