Экотуризм в Сибири -Nature Park Ergaki

The rugged mountains of Ergaki, part of Western Sayans, amaze its visitors at any time of the year. In winter – it is their breathtaking scenery of snow-capped peaks contrasting with the blue sky; in summer – it is their crystal clear lakes nestled in a colourful blanket of flowers oozing pleasant scents into the air. The gigantic Hanging Rock or the Rock Town – a maze of natural stone sculptures – are fascinating in all seasons. In Ergaki, you can experience the freedom of the mountains, the mystique of the forests, the power of clean mountain rivers, and the fresh air of the untouched wilderness. Ergaki is not just a fairy-tale tourist destination, it is a delicate ecosystem in need of protection. It is the first nature park in the Krasnoyarsk region, providing both conservation and recreation. Nature’s bewildering beauty and an unparallel environment for outdoor activities make Ergaki a great place to visit.

Each peak in Ergaki has its unique shape, and their names such as the Bird, Camel, Dragon’s Tooth, Little Elephant, Parabola and Mirror indicate the impressive array of mountain forms to be discovered. The highest two summits in the park are Aradan (2466 m) in the Aradan Ridge and Zvezdniy (Star Peak, 2265 m) in the main Ergaki Ridge. The general name of the mountains ‘Ergaki’ originates from a Turkic language meaning ‘fingers’ or ‘hooks’, which echoes the area’s jagged peaks, a product of long-term rock weathering that resemble erect fingers. However, a folk legend says that these are petrified fingers of Batyr – a conceited local lad who wanted to live side by side with gods in heaven. The gods were upset by his plea and instead turned him into stone. To caution other mortals, they left his stone fingers point skywards.