
Where the standard Balcony route ends, this one keeps going — onto narrow animal paths that climb relentlessly. There are no flat stretches. Just uphill. Past the treeline at 3,000m+, you reach the 'True Balcony' — a grassy plateau that drops straight into an abyss. Almaty looks tiny from here. The wind at this altitude is strong enough to physically push you sideways on the bike. No cell service. No other people. Just mountains.
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.
"True Balcony is aptly named — you literally stand on a cliff edge overlooking the entire Almaty valley. Heart-stopping views."
Саян К."Steeper and longer than the regular Balcony route. Some sections I could see straight down to the gorge floor. The viewpoint at the top is wide and flat, you just sit and stare for a while."
Elena R.