
Best Backpacking Destinations in Novokuznetsk, Kemerovskaya Oblast’, Russia
1. Tomtor Tundra
Experience the extreme cold in Siberia's Tomtor Tundra, a unique landscape filled with reindeer and the Northern Lights.
- Wildlife Watching: Observing the local reindeer herds in their natural habitat
- Northern Lights: Catching the elusive Aurora Borealis dance across the sky
- Arctic Adventure: Stepping into a true Arctic wilderness, exploring the untouched tundra landscapes
2. Novokuznetsk City Park
Relax and enjoy nature in Novokuznetsk's city park, featuring a lake, walking trails, and picnic areas.
- Urban Oasis: Escaping the city bustle with a peaceful nature escape
- Recreation Activities: Boating, fishing, hiking, and picnicking options available
- Local Events: Participating in seasonal events like summer concerts and winter ice skating
3. Uyaro-Komarovskaya Nature Reserve
Explore the untouched wilderness of Uyaro-Komarovskaya Nature Reserve, home to rare plant and animal species.
- Wildlife Sanctuary: Preserving endangered species like the Siberian Tiger and Amur Leopard
- Rare Flora: Discovering unique plant species, such as the Siberian Dwarf Pine
- Hiking Trails: Navigating scenic trails through pristine forests and meadows
4. Kuznetsk Alatau National Park
Hike the breathtaking peaks of Kuznetsk Alatau National Park, offering stunning mountain vistas and crystal-clear lakes.
- Mountain Adventure: Scaling majestic mountains for panoramic views
- Wildlife Encounters: Spotting rare birds and wildlife like the Siberian Ibex and Brown Bear
- Alpine Lakes: Relaxing by pristine alpine lakes, such as Lake Bolshoye Ust-Koksa
5. Sosnovka Gorge
Discover the enchanting Sosnovka Gorge, where crystal-clear rivers carve their way through towering cliffs.
- Waterfall Exploration: Hiking to discover hidden waterfalls cascading down the cliffs
- River Rafting: Experiencing exhilarating white-water rafting adventures
- Cliffside Camping: Camping beneath the stars among towering cliffs and lush greenery
6. Tomsk Reservoir
Relax at Tomsk Reservoir, a vast water body surrounded by forests and picturesque villages.
- Lake Living: Experiencing rural life in picturesque villages surrounding the reservoir
- Water Sports: Enjoying various water sports like sailing, kayaking, and windsurfing
- Forest Trails: Exploring forest trails for hiking and wildlife spotting
7. Krasnoyarsk Hydroelectric Power Station
Visit the world's second-largest hydroelectric power station, Krasnoyarsk, offering awe-inspiring engineering feats.
- Engineering Marvel: Observing the massive dam and turbines that generate electricity
- Sturgeon Fishing: Fishing for Siberian sturgeon in the Yenisei River nearby
- Local Culture: Engaging with local culture and learning about Siberian history
8. Stolby National Park
Hike through Stolby National Park, a unique landscape of standing stones that resemble stoves (stolby), formed by erosion.
- Unique Landscapes: Walking among the unusual stone pillars created by wind and water erosion
- Wildlife Spotting: Observing Siberian foxes, martens, and various bird species in their natural habitat
- Hiking Trails: Navigating scenic hiking trails through the park's diverse terrain
9. Plover Cliffs
Experience the awe-inspiring Plover Cliffs, a series of dramatic cliffs along the Yenisei River.
- Scenic Views: Taking in breathtaking views of the river and surrounding landscapes
- Bird Watching: Spotting various bird species, including the rare white-tailed eagle
- Photography Opportunities: Capturing stunning images of the cliffs and river landscapes
10. Kemerovo Zoo
Visit Kemerovo Zoo, home to over 300 species of animals from around the world.
- Animal Encounters: Interacting with exotic and native animals up-close
- Conservation Efforts: Supporting conservation efforts for endangered species through ticket sales
- Educational Programs: Learning about animal behaviors, habitats, and conservation issues
11. Krasnoyarsk Icebreaker
Board the icebreaker in Krasnoyarsk and navigate the icy waters of the Yenisei River.
- Ice Navigation: Experiencing the power and skill required to break through thick ice
- Sturgeon Fishing: Fishing for Siberian sturgeon in the icy waters of the Yenisei River
- Wildlife Spotting: Observing seals, harbor porpoises, and other marine life along the journey
12. Tashtagol Valley
Explore Tashtagol Valley, a lush valley filled with forests, rivers, and picturesque villages.
- Nature Exploration: Discovering diverse flora and fauna in the valley's pristine ecosystem
- Local Culture: Immersing in the traditional Siberian culture of the villages within the valley
- River Rafting: Experiencing exhilarating white-water rafting adventures on the valley's rivers
13. Berezovsky Nature Reserve
Experience the pristine wilderness of Berezovsky Nature Reserve, home to rare plant and animal species.
- Endangered Species Protection: Preserving endangered species like the Siberian Tiger and Amur Leopard
- Rare Flora: Discovering unique plant species, such as the Siberian Dwarf Pine
- Hiking Trails: Navigating scenic trails through pristine forests and meadows
14. Tomsk-7
Visit the secret city of Tomsk-7, a former top-secret Soviet military facility.
- Cold War History: Learning about the Cold War era and its impact on Siberia
- Ghost Town Exploration: Exploring abandoned buildings and relics of the past
- Photography Opportunities: Capturing unique images of the mysterious, abandoned cityscape
15. Krasnoyarsk Museum of Local Lore
Learn about the history and culture of Krasnoyarsk at the city's Museum of Local Lore.
- Local History: Gaining insights into the region's past, including prehistoric and Soviet eras
- Art and Artifacts: Admiring traditional Siberian art and ancient artifacts
- Educational Programs: Participating in educational programs about the region's history and culture