New 5.3 km Hiking Trail to Big Almaty Lake Planned with 665 Million Tenge Budget

Almaty authorities have announced plans to build a new organized hiking trail to Big Almaty Lake (BAL), one of the city’s most visited природных attractions. The project aims to improve tourist infrastructure and manage increasing visitor flow following years of debate over access to the lake.

Project Budget and Timeline

According to city officials, approximately 665 million tenge has been allocated from the municipal budget for the development of a structured pedestrian route.

The project includes the construction of a 5.3-kilometer organized tourist trail leading to Big Almaty Lake. Authorities plan to complete the project by the end of 2026.

What Will Be Built?

While full technical specifications have not yet been publicly detailed, the initiative focuses on improving safety, accessibility, and environmental management along the route.

• Clearly marked pedestrian pathways
• Improved terrain stabilization where needed
• Safer access points for visitors
• Structured tourism flow management

Previous Mountain Infrastructure Projects

The announcement follows earlier inspections of mountain routes in 2025, including improvement works near the radon hot spring in the Alma-Arasan area. Those upgrades included slope reinforcement, bridge renovations, and the installation of staircases and viewing platforms.

City leadership has repeatedly emphasized the importance of balancing tourism development with environmental protection and public safety.

The Ongoing Debate Over Access to Big Almaty Lake

Access to Big Almaty Lake has been a sensitive topic for several years. Between 2019 and 2023, private vehicle access was restricted due to infrastructure repairs and flood-control dam construction. Visitors were limited to hiking or eco-bus transportation.

In mid-2023, public discussion intensified after reports that taxi drivers were transporting tourists to the lake for high fees. The road was later reopened to private vehicles, leading to a significant surge in visitor numbers.

Environmental Concerns

Increased traffic brought congestion and waste management challenges. Social media footage showed long traffic queues and litter accumulation. Over a short period, authorities removed more than 4,000 kilograms of waste from the area.

By late September 2023, road access was once again restricted, requiring visitors to reach the lake by foot or bicycle.

Why the New Trail Matters

The planned hiking trail may represent a long-term solution to balance tourism growth with environmental sustainability. A structured pedestrian route could:

• Reduce uncontrolled vehicle traffic
• Improve visitor safety
• Protect fragile alpine ecosystems
• Create a more predictable tourism experience

Big Almaty Lake remains one of the most photographed destinations in Kazakhstan, known for its turquoise water, alpine setting, and proximity to the city.

What This Means for Tourists

Travelers planning a visit to Big Almaty Lake in 2026 should expect evolving access conditions during the construction phase. Organized routes may improve safety and navigation, especially for international visitors unfamiliar with local regulations.

As infrastructure develops, authorities are likely to continue adjusting traffic rules and visitor policies to manage demand.