
The far western edge of riding above Almaty. Getting to Aksay Lakes means pushing through dense juniper, climbing over boulders, and crossing rivers that may still have snow bridges in June. The lakes are stone bowls filled with grey meltwater. Because it's so hard to get here, the wildlife is different — Tian Shan brown bears and wild sheep actually live in this area. You won't see another human. Difficulty 8. Bring food and water.
Helmet, balaclava, body armor with arm protection, knee pads (worn over your pants), jersey, and gloves.
Water, windbreaker jacket (depending on weather), thick pants, and comfortable closed-toe shoes.
"Glacial lakes above 3,200m. The weather went from sun to hail in about 15 minutes. The moraine approach is unstable, rocks shifting under the tires. When the sun came back, the water color was unreal. No other way to reach them in a day."
Сауле Р."Long full-day expedition to the lakes. The final approach is very technical. But the emerald water surrounded by snow makes it all worth it."
Andrew C.