Barskoon Waterfall

The Barskoon gorge climbs south from the lake shore towards the Kumtor plateau, and several waterfalls drop into it within a few kilometres of each other, reached by short steep paths from the road: the Bear's Tears is the best known, and others carry names given in the Soviet period. The slopes are covered in Tien Shan juniper, gnarled and slow-growing, which gives the valley a different character from the spruce gorges on the northern shore. Higher up the road climbs past a monument to Yuri Gagarin, who holidayed nearby, and continues to a pass around 3,800 metres with views over the glaciated plateau. The road is a working mine route, so heavy trucks use it and access above a certain point is controlled.

What you actually see

• The waterfalls - several falls reached by short climbs from the road.
• Juniper forest - old twisted Tien Shan juniper on the slopes.
• The Gagarin monument - the memorial on the road up the valley.
• The high pass - views over the plateau if the road is open.

When to go

June to September for the falls and the pass. Snowmelt in June gives the strongest water. The upper road is closed by snow much of the year and by mine operations at times.

Honest expectations

This is an industrial access road with mine traffic, which affects both the atmosphere and safety. Paths to the falls are steep, loose and unmarked. Access above the falls may be refused without notice. Facilities are a few seasonal stalls at the entrance.

Nearby

Chon-Kyzyl-Suu gorge lies east; Karakol is further east again.