Shkhara Glacier
Day hike from Ushguli up the wide upper Enguri valley to the glacier below Shkhara, Georgia's highest mountain, where the Enguri River begins.
Shkhara GlacierPhoto: ilan molcho from israel, CC BY 2.0The Shkhara Glacier spills from the south side of Shkhara, at about 5,200 m the highest mountain in Georgia, and its meltwater is the source of the Enguri River. Reaching it is the classic day out from Ushguli. The route follows the broad, open valley of the upper Enguri, mostly on a jeep track through pastures where cattle graze, with the white wall of the main Caucasus ridge ahead the whole way. In the last couple of kilometres the path climbs gently through low forest, boulders and small streams to a viewpoint near the glacier tongue at around 2,400 m.
The round trip from Ushguli is about 16 km and takes around 6 hours on foot, with little steep climbing, so it suits most reasonably fit walkers. To shorten the day, hire a horse in Ushguli or a 4x4 for the valley track and walk only the final section. Start early, as cloud often builds over the peaks by the afternoon. Keep well away from the ice front itself, where rocks can tumble down without warning.
What to see and do
- Views of Shkhara and the main Caucasus ridge
- The source of the Enguri River below the glacier
- Open pastures of the upper Enguri valley
- Option to ride part of the way on horseback
How to visit
Getting there
The walk starts in Ushguli near Lamaria Church; Ushguli is about 45 km (1.5 hours) by road from Mestia. 4x4 drivers can take you most of the way up the valley track.
When to go
July to September. Plan about 6 hours on foot; less by horse or 4x4 here.
- Carry water and food; there are no shops beyond Ushguli.
- Bring sun protection and a warm layer, as the valley is exposed.
- Agree prices for horses or 4x4s, including waiting time, before setting off.
- Do not approach the ice front because of rockfall.
Shkhara Glacier: FAQ
How long is the hike from Ushguli to the Shkhara Glacier?
About 8 km each way, roughly 16 km return, taking around 6 hours on foot. The route is mostly gentle, following the upper Enguri valley.
Can you ride a horse to the Shkhara Glacier?
Yes. Horses can be hired in Ushguli for the valley section, and 4x4 drivers also run trips up the track, leaving only a short walk to the glacier.
Tours that include Shkhara Glacier
Read more in our guides
Photo: Q-lieb-in, CC BY-SA 4.0Colour starts near the treeline in late September and reaches Tbilisi in November. Here is when each region peaks, the walks to do there and which mountain roads shut first.
Photo: Supanut Arunoprayote, CC BY 4.0Where to walk in Georgia's mountains and forests, when the passes open, how hard each trail is, what permits you need and how to stay safe, with tables of top walks and treks.
Photo: Q-lieb-in, CC BY-SA 4.0Four days and roughly 55 km through Svan tower villages: each stage explained, plus the river ford, where to sleep, what to pack and when the pass is clear.
Nearby places
Straight-line distance from Shkhara Glacier.
