Abano Mineral Lake Loop(edit)

𝐓𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐬𝐨 𝐕𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐲 is a scenic gorge in Georgia, close to Stepantsminda. The valley is known for its mineral springs, geyser, mineral lake, Zakagori Fortress and remote abandoned villages. ▶Distance from Stepantsminda: 22 km 32 min ▶Distance from Tbilisi: 153 km 3 hr 30 min The valley stretches along the Tergi River and is surrounded by limestone cliffs and vibrant mineral formations. ◤ Description of the Trail: The trail is partially marked, but due to a lack of maintenance, it’s best to have a GPS with you. --- The hike begins in the almost deserted village of Kvemo Okrokana and leads first to the Abano Lakes, then to the Zakagori Fortress, before returning to Kvemo Okrokana. --- Upon reaching Kvemo Okrokana, you’ll notice 4x4 vehicles driving into the gorge. This hike can be done by 4x4 vehicles (except for Abano Lakes section of 3.5 km in this trail when you follow a footpath). Drivers usually skip this part and drive directly to Zakagori Fortress and back. --- For the first 4.4 km, we hitchhiked with a 4x4 vehicle. If you have the opportunity, consider doing the same, as this part of the trail is busy with 4x4 traffic and isn’t particularly enjoyable for hiking. --- After 4.4 km, the trail opens up to a stunning view of the mineral formations and the entire Trusso Valley. This is where the hiking loop begins. You take the right path and head first to the Abano Lakes. --- At 5.2 km, you’ll reach the small Abano Lake. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐀𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐨 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐋𝐚𝐤𝐞 in Trusso Valley is known for its vibrant, rusty-orange hues caused by high iron content and mineral deposits. The mineral water from the Lake is not recommended for drinking due to its high iron and mineral content. The water has a strong taste and smell, which can be unpleasant and might cause digestive discomfort. --- At 7.9 km, you rejoin the main jeep track that you left at 4.4 km for the Abano Lake detour and continue the hike along this route. --- At 9.1 km, you’ll arrive at the 𝐒𝐭. 𝐆𝐞𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐡 in the abandoned village of Ketrisi, which dates back to the 10th–11th centuries. This small, stone-built church reflects traditional Georgian architecture. There is also a restaurant near the church. --- At 10.3 km, you’ll reach the end of the jeep track and come close to the South Ossetia border. Here, you need to turn right and hike 550 meters uphill to 10.8 km, where you’ll reach the ruins of Zakagori Fortress. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐙𝐚𝐤𝐚𝐠𝐨𝐫𝐢 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬 , built between the 17th and 18th centuries, was situated on a hill and served as a defensive stronghold, guarding the strategic route through the valley. --- After visiting the fortress, you’ll hike down and rejoin the main jeep track. --- At 13.7 km, when you reach the junction of the jeep track and the Abano Lake footpath, take the right jeep track this time. ▶When to Go? ✔ Best Season: 𝐽𝑢𝑛𝑒 𝑡𝑜 𝑆𝑒𝑝𝑡𝑒𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 Summer (June to August): Mild temperatures (from 15°C to 25°C), clear trails Autumn (September): Pleasant weather, fewer tourists ✖ Not Recommended: 𝐴𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑙 𝑡𝑜 𝑀𝑎𝑦: Possible snow on higher trails Temperatures begin to warm but may still be chilly 𝑂𝑐𝑡𝑜𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑡𝑜 𝐴𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑙 Cold temperatures and heavy snow Trails are difficult and inaccessible *𝐼𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑢𝑎𝑙 𝑃𝑟𝑜𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑡𝑦 𝑁𝑜𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑒: This content is the intellectual property of the author and is protected by copyright laws. It may not be reproduced, distributed, or used in any form or by any means without proper citation of the original source and author. All rights reserved.

Distance: 20.6 km returnMinimum Elevation: 2029 mMaximum Elevation: 2231 mTotal climb: 341 mTotal descent: 341 mhttps://www.goingthewholehogg.com/truso-valley-hike/