Butakovka Waterfall
Discover the natural beauty of Butakovka Waterfall with its scenic forest trails and stunning cascades, especially magical when frozen in winter.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Butakovka Waterfall
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the natural beauty of Butakovka Waterfall with its scenic forest trails and stunning cascades, especially magical when frozen in winter.
"Beautiful and adventurous forest walking with multiple waterfalls to discover."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Rocky and potentially slippery trails demand good grip. Closed-toe shoes are a must for safety and comfort.
🧥 Pack for the Weather
Bring a raincoat if there's a chance of rain. Weather can change quickly in the mountains.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Main Butakovka Waterfall
1.1km trail
The most accessible waterfall, offering a beautiful reward for a moderate hike. Perfect for a quick nature escape.
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Frozen Winter Wonderland
All trails in winter
Witness the breathtaking spectacle of frozen waterfalls and icy landscapes. A truly unique and stunning natural display.

The Longer Waterfall Trails
2.3km and 4.3km trails
For the adventurous, these paths lead to more secluded waterfalls and a more challenging, rewarding trek.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Footwear is Key!
Plan Your Hike Length
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Rocky and potentially slippery trails demand good grip. Closed-toe shoes are a must for safety and comfort.
🧥 Pack for the Weather
Bring a raincoat if there's a chance of rain. Weather can change quickly in the mountains.
🚗 Car Entry Fee
Expect a fee of 2000T per car for entry, especially if arriving by taxi.
🚶♀️ Choose Your Trail Wisely
Opt for shorter trails if time is limited, or longer ones for a more immersive experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Rocky and potentially slippery trails demand good grip. Closed-toe shoes are a must for safety and comfort.
🧥 Pack for the Weather
Bring a raincoat if there's a chance of rain. Weather can change quickly in the mountains.
🚗 Car Entry Fee
Expect a fee of 2000T per car for entry, especially if arriving by taxi.
🚶♀️ Choose Your Trail Wisely
Opt for shorter trails if time is limited, or longer ones for a more immersive experience.
🧊 Winter's Icy Charm
Visit in winter to see the stunning 'ICE Waterfall' – a truly unique sight.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Butakovka Waterfall for its beautiful forest walks and the rewarding experience of reaching its multiple cascades. The unique 'ICE Waterfall' in winter is a significant highlight. However, the trails can be rocky and slippery, requiring good footwear, and there's an entry fee for cars.
"Very beautiful and adventurous forest walking. Wear good shoes . Total 3nos of waterfalls available (1.1km, 2.3km & 4.3km) Walking around 1 hour and 45 minutes (1.1 to 1.5km) Entry fee 2000T per car (taxi). Raining time , So bring Raincoat if you want."
Syed
"Last 4KM for walk only. Around 1 hour return to the start place. ICE Waterfall amazing."
JBR JBR3303
"Quite a long and rocky walk. Though, one feels good when walk is done and waterfall is reached."
alexey lgotkin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive or take a taxi to the entrance. For a longer, more scenic route, some suggest starting from Medeo. The final 4km are typically walking only.
Yes, parking is available, but there is an entry fee of 2000T per car.
While direct public transport might be limited, you can likely take a bus to a point near the entrance and then arrange a taxi or walk the remaining distance. It's best to check local transport schedules.
The 'Butakovka turn' likely refers to a more direct access point, while starting from Medeo offers a longer, potentially more scenic journey.
The main trails are generally well-marked, especially the path to the first waterfall. Longer trails might require more attention to signage.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entry fee, particularly for cars. It's reported to be 2000T per car.
Advance ticket purchase is usually not required. You can typically pay the entry fee upon arrival at the park entrance. It's always a good idea to check their official website or local information for any changes.
The park is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, it's advisable to check local listings or inquire locally for specific operating times, especially during off-season or holidays.
The entry fee is typically per vehicle or per person for access to the park area. The different waterfall trails within the park are usually accessible without additional separate tickets.
Refund policies are usually determined by the park management. It's unlikely to get a refund for weather-related issues once you've entered, so check the forecast before you go.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The 1.1km trail to the first waterfall takes about 45 minutes to an hour round trip. Longer trails (2.3km, 4.3km) will take significantly more time, potentially 2-3 hours or more depending on your pace.
Sturdy hiking shoes with good grip are essential due to the rocky and potentially slippery terrain. Dress in layers as mountain weather can be unpredictable.
Basic facilities might be available near the entrance, but it's wise to come prepared. Carry your own water and snacks, especially for longer hikes. Information on specific facilities can be limited, so pack accordingly.
The 1.1km trail is manageable for families with young children, provided they have appropriate footwear and supervision. Longer trails might be too strenuous for very young kids.
Swimming is generally not recommended or possible at the waterfalls due to the terrain and water conditions. The main attraction is the natural beauty and the hike itself.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The viewpoints near each waterfall offer stunning natural scenery. Capture the cascading water, the surrounding forest, and the unique ice formations in winter.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, soft lighting for your photos. Midday sun can be harsh, but can also highlight the textures of the rocks and water.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the beauty. If you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, consider bringing a wide-angle lens for landscape shots and a tripod for longer exposures, especially near the water.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's crucial to check with local authorities or park management regarding any restrictions on drone flights before you fly. Safety and respect for other visitors are paramount.
Focus on the intricate details of the ice formations. Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance the blues and whites of the ice. Experiment with different angles to showcase the scale and texture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails
It's important to note that these trails are described as rocky and can be slippery, especially during or after rainfall, and in winter conditions. Visitors consistently emphasize the need for sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes with good grip to ensure safety and comfort throughout the hike. Some Redditors suggest that starting the journey from Medeo offers a longer, potentially more scenic route compared to a more direct 'Butakovka turn' access point.
The Magic of Winter
While the beauty of the frozen falls is undeniable, visitors should be extra cautious. The rocky terrain becomes significantly more slippery when covered in ice and snow. Proper winter hiking gear, including waterproof boots with excellent traction and potentially microspikes or crampons, is highly recommended. Dressing in warm, layered clothing is essential to combat the cold mountain air. Despite the challenges, the visual reward of a frozen Butakovka is often described as absolutely amazing and worth the effort.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit