Yekaterinburg does not immediately reveal its natural secrets, since upon first acquaintance the city greets you with a concrete jungle and dense buildings. To see the real ones beautiful places EKB, you need to know specific locations where nature has been preserved despite urbanization, or simply turn off the main highway towards the forest. Many motorists and tourists mistakenly believe that in order to contemplate picturesque landscapes it is necessary to travel hundreds of kilometers from the ring road, but unique landscapes are also available within the metropolis.
It is enough to choose the right direction to find yourself surrounded by centuries-old pine trees or at the foot of rocky shores. Nature of EKB varied: from marshy peat bogs to rocky hills covered with moss. In this article we will look at specific points where you can drive or walk to take a break from the bustle of the city and enjoy the views.
Shartash Forest Park: Lungs of the City
The Shartash Forest Park is the largest forest area located directly within the city, and serves as the main reservoir of clean air. There are kilometers laid here eco-trail, where you can walk all year round, enjoying the view of centuries-old pines and larches. The forest acts as a natural filter, trapping city dust and noise, so even on weekends there is relative silence here.
For those who are looking nature of the EKB For active recreation, the park offers excellent conditions: in winter, one of the best ski slopes operates here, and in summer, the routes are filled with cyclists and runners.
⚠️ Attention: There are wild animals in the Shartash Forest, including moose and wild boars. Meeting them requires calm, do not try to feed them or get close to them.
The park's infrastructure is constantly developing, new recreation areas and equipment rental points are appearing. If you are planning a long walk, it is worth studying the trail map in advance, as some areas may be difficult to walk after rains.
☑️ What to take with you to the forest park
Lake Shuvakish and its surroundings
Lake Shuvakish is a unique natural site, surrounded by picturesque rocks and pine forest. This place is popular among residents of the Ordzhonikidze district, who value it for its relatively clean water and beautiful landscapes, reminiscent of Karelian ones. The coastline here is indented, which creates many secluded coves for relaxation.
Around the reservoir, the remains of ancient workings have been preserved, which adds historical flavor to the landscape. Nature in the area combines water surface and rocky ledges covered with bright lichen. You can get here by public transport or car, leaving it in specially equipped parking lots at the entrance to the forest area.
It is worth noting that swimming in the lake is not always officially recommended due to the peculiarities of the bottom topography and water quality, but walking along the shore is a great pleasure. In spring and early summer, forest flowers bloom especially beautifully here, and in autumn the rocks are painted in golden-crimson tones.
| Parameter | Characteristics | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Terrain type | Forested area near the water | Suitable for picnics |
| Availability | High (tram, bus) | Family Friendly |
| Seasonality | All year round | In winter - skiing, in summer - trekking |
| Infrastructure | Paths, benches, trash cans | Cafe just at the entrance |
Rocks and views: Five Brothers and Devil's Settlement
If your request is "beautiful places EKB nature", then it is impossible to ignore the famous rock formations that have become the hallmark of the region. “Five Brothers” and “Devil’s Settlement” are not just stones, but geological monuments that attract climbers and photographers from all over the world. These formations arose millions of years ago and were weathered, acquiring bizarre shapes.
The climb to the top requires physical fitness and caution as the trails can be steep and slippery. However, the view of the taiga and city blocks from above fully justifies the effort. EKB Rocks often become a venue for festivals and cultural events.
⚠️ Attention: Climbing to the tops of rocks without insurance and experience is prohibited - it is life-threatening. Admire the views from equipped observation platforms.
Rare plant species listed in the Red Book grow around the rocky outcrops, so collecting flowers and damaging the vegetation is unacceptable. A walk here is an immersion in the atmosphere of the ancient Urals, where nature dictates its harsh but majestic rules.
History of rock names
The Five Brothers Rock got its name due to the five vertical pillars resembling people standing next to each other. According to legend, these are petrified brothers who did not allow the enemy to enter their land. “Devil's Settlement” is associated with evil spirits due to the chaotic pile of stones, similar to a ruined castle.
Foresters Park and Arboretum on March 8
For those who prefer furnished park areas with a rich botanical collection, the Arborist Park or Arboretum is an ideal choice. Here nature is presented in a more “combed” form: well-groomed alleys, ponds with swans and a variety of tree species collected from all over the world. This is a great option for relaxing walks with children or romantic meetings.
In the arboretum you can find rare specimens of trees that, in the natural conditions of our climate, cannot survive without human help. Green areas This type performs an important educational function, allowing you to study botany right on the street. The air here is saturated with phytoncides, which has a beneficial effect on the nervous system.
In autumn, these parks turn into a real extravaganza of colors when the foliage changes color. Amateur photographers know: this is where you can take the most beautiful shots for your portfolio or family album without going to the remote taiga.
Secret locations: Deep lake and swamps
There are places that are not always included in tourist brochures, but have a unique atmosphere. Lake Glubokoe and the surrounding marshlands are a kingdom of silence and untouched nature. There are rarely many people here, which allows you to feel complete unity with the environment.
The swamps of the Urals are not just a swamp, but a complex ecosystem where cranberries and cloudberries grow, and rare birds nest along the banks. Walking here requires some preparation and knowledge of the area so as not to get lost or get your feet wet. This is the place for experienced adventurersready to endure difficulties for the sake of the beauty of wild nature.
You can often get to such points only by driving an SUV or walking several kilometers along forest paths. However, it is in such wilderness that you can see the real life of the forest, untouched by civilization.
Tip: When visiting marshy areas, be sure to use tall, waterproof boots and a walking stick to check the ground ahead.
Development plans and environmental issues
Despite the beauty natural objects of the EKB face the pressures of urbanization. Construction of new residential complexes and roads often encroaches on forested areas, causing concern among environmentalists and local residents. It is important to follow news about urban planning plans in order to respond in time to threats of destruction of green areas.
Litter left by unscrupulous visitors also remains a serious problem. Plastic bottles and bags take hundreds of years to decompose, poisoning the soil and water. Each visitor must be aware of their responsibility and take garbage with them or throw it in special containers.
Volunteer movements regularly hold events to clean up forests and parks, and participation in them is the best way to show love for your native land. Saving ecology of the region depends on the consciousness of each of us.
⚠️ Attention: Fines for violating fire safety rules and damaging green spaces in the Sverdlovsk region have increased significantly in recent years.
The main conclusion: There is beautiful nature even in the center of a metropolis, if you know where to look and take care of these fragile islands of greenery.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Where in Yekaterinburg can you legally make fires?
It is officially prohibited to light fires within the city and in most forested areas all year round due to the high fire danger. There are specially equipped barbecue areas in some parks (for example, in the Lesovodov park or at certain recreation centers) where this is permitted. Lighting a fire in the forest (Shartash, Shuvakish) is prohibited.
Are ticks dangerous in Ekaterinburg parks?
Yes, the Sverdlovsk region is an endemic region for tick-borne encephalitis. Ticks are active from the moment the snow melts until the first frost. When visiting any ECB green spaces, parks and forests, be sure to use repellent, wear covered clothing and consider getting vaccinated.
Is it possible to swim in the EKB lakes?
Swimming is allowed only in specially designated and equipped places where water quality is checked (for example, some beaches on Lake Shartash or Verkh-Isetsky Pond). In wild places such as Shuvakish or Glubokoye, swimming is not recommended and is often prohibited due to the unpredictable bottom topography and the lack of rescue posts.
How to get to the Five Brothers rock by car?
You can get there by bus to the final stop in the corresponding area (often a transfer is required) or by car. It is better to look for coordinates for a navigator using the name “Five Brothers”, but keep in mind that the access roads can be unpaved and difficult to pass after rain.