Pillars Reserve – Guide to the Russian nature

Александр Вдруг

Pillars Reserve – Guide to the Russian nature

Preface

The Krasnoyarsk Pillars (or Stolby) National Park (more commonly known as the "nature reserve") is a picturesque, specially protected area in Russia, located practically within the city limits of Krasnoyarsk. It was founded in 1925 at the initiative of local residents to protect nature from deforestation and stone mining.

This book provides a brief overview for tourists. The archive contains numerous photographs taken there at various times. I am publishing these materials to draw the attention of visitors to Krasnoyarsk to this interesting place—a recreation and sports center in a stunning, virtually untouched location, practically within the city limits.

Today, the nature reserve is one of the most visited in Russia, attracting approximately 1 million people annually. On weekends, up to 10,000 visitors follow the Central Pillars trail. The Krasnoyarsk Pillars is a landmark of the region and a favorite recreation spot for Krasnoyarsk residents. The reserve's main attraction is the syenite cliffs, reminiscent of giants, animals, and mythological creatures. The cliffs have a unique system of passages and tunnels.

Enjoy!

Location

of

the

Reserve

Krasnoyarsk is a relatively compact city, just 25 kilometers in length. It boasts developed industry (in Soviet times, of course, there were more enterprises), logistics, trade, the country's best food service industry, numerous sports and cultural facilities, and a diverse landscape and natural environment, all within easy reach of the city. Furthermore, Krasnoyarsk is the center of the Krasnoyarsk Krai, located in the center of Siberia.

In terms of natural resources, the city's residents are undoubtedly very fortunate. Numerous outdoor recreation spots are located nearby, literally within easy reach.

The Krasnoyarsk Pillars Reserve itself is located on the northwestern spurs of the Eastern Sayan Mountains and covers 47,219 hectares. The territory stretches 34 kilometers from northwest to southeast, with elevations ranging from 200 to 840 meters above sea level (the highest being on the Kaidynsky Ridge). Borders: north – Yenisei River, northeast – Bazaikha River, south – Mana River. It's practically impossible to explore it in a day.

The travel time from the center of Krasnoyarsk to the "Central" entrance to the reserve is only 20 minutes by car. From the Central entrance to the reserve, you'll have to walk another 6 kilometers uphill to the cliffs, an ascent of approximately 300 meters.

There's also a second entrance – "Eastern." It takes a little longer by car to get there – 30 minutes, but the walk to the cliffs is shorter – 1.5 kilometers, but off-road along trails.

The road to the cliffs from the central entrance and infrastructure

From the central, most popular entrance, a six-kilometer road leads to the cliffs, 85% paved. Access is permitted only to a small number of specialized vehicles and buses of organized tour groups. Private vehicles are prohibited, making the road quite pleasant and safe for leisurely strolls, including with children. About one kilometer at the very top of the road is unpaved—gravel, in places arranged in steps with wooden curbs.

Along the road, almost half the way is not paved, but rather on wooden boardwalks with railings and steps, laid through a forest of a variety of native trees and shrubs. If you want more sun and warmth, walk along the road; if you want shade and coolness, walk along the boardwalks.

The 6-kilometer climb takes approximately one to two hours, depending on your fitness level, although athletes have managed to reach the summit in as little as 35 minutes. Fresh air, forest, sunshine, and silence await you along the way.