A memorable road trip to Pereval Balyk

Pereval Balyk is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 3.525m (11,564ft) above the sea level, located in the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic of Russia. It’s one of the highest roads in Europe.

Pereval Balyk

Located in the North Caucasus, within Prielbrusye National Park, the narrow road to the summit is totally unpaved. 4x4 vehicles only. The narrow trail runs east-west along Subashi river (aka Kyrtyk river) at beginning and then follows the same direction like a cliff road.

The drive offers great views over Kyrtyk river gorge to the east and Dzhikiugankez /Frozen Lake to the west. It’s common route to see the Dzhikiugankez glacier, a stunning glacier on Mount Elbrus area. The road to the summit is really tough. It’s 11,5km long and the average gradient is 10,4%, hitting a 16.4% through some of the ramps.
Road suggested by: jorge manuel gómez sánchez
Pic: v. s.