Upon studying a map of the foothills, you might think that if there is a Big Almaty Lake, then a small one should exist somewhere nearby. But that is not the case. Big Almaty Lake has no close relatives, so to speak. It is one of a kind.

It is proudly referred to as the closest mountain lake to the outskirts of Almaty. Located at an altitude of 2511m, on the upper side of the canyon by the same name, fed by the Almaty river running through it, Big Almaty Lake is part of a wonderful national park.

A 23km drive leads up there from the city of Almaty. As far as the hydroelectric power station you will be driving on asphalt, the last stretch is a dirt and gravel track into the Alatau - Eliy National park, which charges a small fee.

The lake's high altitude location keeps it cool, and so, even in July, the water temperature does not exceed 8 degrees. However, this does not stop winter-swimmers, the loyal ivanovezchs, and even draws visitors from afar who would not miss a chance to harden their organism by plunging into these pure icy waters and get their energy revived.

The canyon itself is considered to be extremely dangerous to climb about due to mudslides, and it is to the credit of almaty mudslide specialists that the lake has survived to this day.

Near the lake luscious green meados are most inviting for camping and hiking but one should take along warm sleeping bags and sweaters, as the nights are very cold at this altitude.

Along the shores you may find several campsite accommodation and hotels with good services. A popular tourist route to Issyk-Kul passes through the Big Almaty Lake and from there over a pass at the end of the canyon.

Big Almaty Peak (3681 m.) (BAP to locals) is to the north west of the lake and is a famous landmark, like a black pyramid visible from the city even. Regular visitors will refer to their route as "from BAL we'll go to BAP ". It is even possible to climb BAP, the easist access is from the south via the pass. You do not even need special equipment, just wear solid footwear. Bring a jacket as cold winds blow on the top from where on a clear day you can see all the way to Kapchagay, and of cours onto lovely Big Almaty Lake itself.