Snowshoe Hike ON GEORGIA's 3RD HIGHEST MOUNTAIN: Kazbek
3 Day / Moderate
Ascend The Frozen Beauty
Mt. KazbeK Snowshoe Hike & Modern Cabin Retreat
Embark on a beautiful 3-day adventure as you ascend the majestic slopes of Mt. Kazbek. Hike to Gergeti Glacier at an elevation of 3600 meters, while Kazbek’s icy summit looms overhead at 5054 meters – higher than any summit in the Alps or the Rockies. Experience the frozen beauty of the Caucasus Mountains while enjoying the modern comforts and crackling fireplace in our Swiss-style cabin retreat. Join us for an unforgettable snowshoeing adventure on Mt. Kazbek & dive into the heart of Georgia’s remote winter wonderland.
SNOWSHOE HIKE OVERVIEW
About This Hike
If the idea of snowshoeing through the winter wonderland on Georgia’s third highest mountain, viewing the massive Gergeti Glacier up close & personally, and enjoying the stunning alpine scenery from a toasty backcountry lodge with world-class cuisine and a full bar sounds appealing, then this is the adventure for you. We will spend two nights at 3014 meters elevation on Mt. Kazbek in Altihut, a brand new mountain hut built to a standard rivaling the Swiss Alps but right here in our backyard. Although not steep, this hike is classified as moderate to difficult, due to the high altitude and variable snow conditions. It is advisable to spend 2 nights in Gudauri or Stepantsminda to acclimatize to high elevation before attempting the hike.
WHATS INCLUDED​
Private 4×4 Transportation Tbilisi – Kazbegi – Tbilisi
Our experienced and comfortable delivers you from Tbilisi to the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church, up a long and winding icy road. Total driving time: 3.5 hours each way.Â
Professional Guide (4:1)
Our experienced and qualified hiking guides will lead the way to AltiHut and beyond. They’ve done their research on the snow conditions and avalanche zones to make sure that you stay safe and enjoy your trip. There will be 1 guide for groups of 1-5 people, 2 guides for groups of 6-9, 3 guides for groups of 10-13, etc.
Extra: Snowshoe & Avalanche Gear ($150 USD for 3 day trip)
Gear up for a safe and thrilling snowshoe hike with our top-of-the-line equipment. We provide snowshoes, poles, and essential avalanche safety gear, including a beacon, shovel, and probe, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the challenges of the mountains.
Accommodation & Meals
Enjoy world-class comfort at AltiHut, your home in the mountains. Georgia’s only mountain accommodation built to Swiss standards, warm up by the crackling fire and enjoy a hearty meal before resting in your comfortable bed. Breakfask, lunch, and dinner are included.Â
Traditional Supra (Georgian dinner party)
After a long 3-day hike, there’s nothing better than a massive table full of hearty traditional Georgian food and wine. We like to say goodbye to our guests in style, so we’ll be sure to send you on your way home with a full belly and a smile on your face
Photos & Memories
Capture the magic of your snowshoe hike and the stunning landscapes of Mt. Kazbegi. Our guide will be your photographer, ensuring you leave with not only cherished memories but also incredible photos to share and cherish.
Tbilisi to Gergeti Trinity Church, Hike to AltiHutOur exciting journey kicks off as a rugged 4×4 vehicle takes us up the adventurous road to Gergeti Trinity Church, perched at an elevation of 2,170 meters. This historic site marks the beginning of our snowshoe hike. The day’s trek unfolds along the wide, low-angle Sabertse Ridge, treating us to breathtaking 360° views of the majestic Caucasus Mountains.
Upon reaching AltiHut, we’ll be greeted with warm drinks and a cozy fire in the fireplace, perfect for thawing our fingers and toes. After settling into our rooms, we’ll relish panoramic vistas from the bar. A hearty dinner awaits us, a well-earned reward for our day’s journey.
- Drive: 3.5 hours
- Hiking Distance: 5.4 km
- Elevation gain: 900m
- Duration: 4-5 hours
Rejuvenated and Ready
After a restful night’s sleep, we start our morning with a hearty breakfast and set out towards Gergeti Glacier. The hike is straightforward, offering numerous opportunities for stunning photographs. As we approach the glacial moraine, our guide will lead us to a safe spot to take a few steps onto the glacier and feel the power of nature. Once we reach the glacier, we’ll have the option to continue hiking further or turn back.
Returning to AltiHut, we’ll have ample time for a relaxing evening. You can choose to read a book in the highest library in Europe, play music, or explore the nearby rock formations, all while soaking in the breathtaking scenery.
- Distance: 8+ km
- Elevation gain: 500+ m
- Duration: 4+ hours
Descent + Georgian Supra
Following a nourishing breakfast, we’ll have one last opportunity for a short uphill hike to a nearby viewpoint before we pack our bags and retrace our steps down the mountain, but this time in the opposite direction, offering us a fresh perspective on the rugged beauty of Kuro Ridge and the greater Caucasus. As we descend, we’ll be captivated by the jagged cliffs, with the landscape extending far into Russia.
At the base, our 4×4 transfer awaits, ready to take us down to the charming town of Stepantsminda for a final feast—a traditional Georgian supra. It’s a delightful way to conclude our unforgettable 3-Day Mt. Kazbegi Snowshoe Hike. Our driver will be ready to return you to Tbilisi with a full belly and a smiling face.Â
- Distance: 8 km
- Elevation gain: 300m
- Duration: 5 hours
Prerequisites
Ability to hike for 5 hours at a time at elevations up to 3000m
Required Equipment
Snowshoeing Gear – available for rent
– Snowshoes
– Trekking Poles
– Avalanche beacon
– Avalanche probe
– Foldable shovel
– Waterproof hiking boots suitable for snow
Hiking Essentials Â
– Sunglasses
– 25-35 L Backpack (large enough to carry all of your equipment)
– Water Bottle (thermos is best)
– Snacks
– Sunscreen
Outer Wear Â
– Waterproof and windproof outer layer jacket and pants
– Gaiters or pants that tighten around your boots
– Warm gloves or mittens
– Warm hat
Inner Layers Â
– Wool or synthetic clothing (No cotton!)
– Thermal top and bottom layer
– Wool socks
– Fleece, down, or pile jacket midlayer top
PROFESSIONAL GUIDE
Experienced, First Aid Trained & Fluent in English
GEAR RENTAL
Snow Shoes & Avy Gear on request
LODGING
2 Nights in AltiHut
MEALS
Full Board
DISTANCE
15 to 30 km