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Nestled at the very end of the Chaukhi Gorge, near the source of the river of the same name, lies a small picturesque lake at the foot of the multi-peaked Chaukhi mountain range.
The lake's crystal-clear waters mirror the surrounding mountains like a perfect reflection, while the Chaukhi River cascades into it with a gentle waterfall. The lake's shores are adorned with alpine flowers, and small wooden bridges on the southern bank add to the pastoral scenery.
Sitting at an elevation of 2,450 meters above sea level, Lake Juta (also known as Lake Chaukhi on Google Maps and official documents of the Kazbegi National Park) boasts a maximum depth of approximately 2 meters. It is fed by melting snow and the Chaukhi River, which flows through the lake, ensuring that the water here is always clean and transparent.
The excursion program:
7:30 AM - Meeting at the upper Didube station or hotel (for a unified group)
8:00 AM - Departure from Tbilisi. Journey to the village of Juta takes approximately 3.5 hours.
Total trail length: 8 km
Total elevation gain: 440 meters
Highest point of the hike: 2,445 meters
Trail difficulty: Moderate
By car, the round trip covers 300 km.
We will drive along the Military-Georgian Road until we reach the Sno Gorge, then continue through the scenic valley of the Sno River to the Juta resort. This is where our trek to the lake begins. We will gradually ascend, with the initial stretch being the most challenging. Over a little more than a kilometer, we will need to gain over half of the total elevation gain, which amounts to 380 meters. After a short rest near the Fifth Season Hotel, we will continue our journey with a much gentler ascent, enjoying the majestic mountain peaks, the Chaukhi Gorge, and the beauty of the alpine nature at every step.
It will take us approximately 1.5-2 hours (depending on the group's physical fitness) to reach the lake. And there, a true paradise on Earth awaits us! The roaring waterfall, the transparent waters of the lake, the magnificent peaks surrounding it, and the fragrant air filled with flowers. Picnic time? Absolutely! Bonfire, shish kebabs, roasted potatoes, and delicious mulled wine. Those brave enough can even take a dip in the cold lake water, even in summer. Everyone will leave with stunning photographs and a whirlwind of emotions. After gathering the remnants of our picnic and any trash, we will make our way back to the village of Juta. Going downhill is always easier, and in about an hour, we will be back at the car.
On the return journey, we will make sure to stop and admire the Snov Fortress and the Giant Sculptures of Merab Piranashvili. If desired, we can also visit the Gergeti Monastery and the gray-haired Kazbegi, and have dinner at a picturesque restaurant on the banks of the Terek River (options need to be arranged in advance before the start of the tour).
From there, we will head back to Tbilisi, returning to the capital of Georgia late in the evening, tired but happy, with a multitude of impressions.
The hike price includes transportation and guided service.
❗️Necessary equipment:
❗️Tour rules:
❗️Food - According to personal taste preference.
❗️Water - As per individual needs, but not less than 1 liter.
❗️Avoid overloading the backpack with unnecessary items; make sure to calculate the required amount of food and clothing accurately. Food and equipment are not included in the price! Purchase food in advance!
❗️ID cards are required.
Join us on this memorable one-day hike to the enchanting "Lake in the Palm" and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of Georgia's natural wonders!
❗️The hiking program provided is a promotional outline. Due to weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances, certain elements of the program may be replaced with suitable alternatives.
❗️The average cost of the hike is mentioned. The final price will be determined based on your specific requirements, including car class, restaurant choices, and group size.
❗️If you have any allergies to specific plants, animals, food products, or dietary restrictions, please inform us in advance.