
Most people turn back after Lake Titova. Level 9 riders keep going — over Tereshkova Peak and then straight down into the Gorelnik forest. The descent drops 1,500 meters in a few kilometers. The brakes overheat and start to fade. The front tire slides on wet moss, slick roots, and loose rocks. Your forearms are burning from the constant braking. This is a one-way route — once you start the descent, you're committed. A handful of people have completed this. It's genuinely frightening.
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.
"After 6 hours of climbing, you hit the Gorelnik descent and suddenly your arms are the problem. Sustained technical downhill for hours. Arm pump was brutal by hour 10. But the terrain changes every 30 minutes, you never ride the same thing twice."
Вадим Ч."Epic 12-hour ride but you need to be honest about your fitness. The Gorelnik section is fast and technical. Amazing if you're ready."
Cristina M.