Kazbegi - Sobertse Pass

This route is the classic first stage of the way to the summit of Kazbek, but it also makes an excellent stand-alone day ski tour. It is considered one of the most scenic routes in the region, with panoramic views of Kazbek and Gergeti Church (Tsminda Sameba). The starting point is the area around Gergeti Church. Depending on snow conditions on the road, you start from Gergeti village, from halfway up the new road, or from the upper parking lot right by the church. The ascent begins at the edge of the plateau opposite Gergeti Church. Follow the ridge leading toward the pass. In strong wind or with wind-affected snow, a safer alternative is to traverse into a wide, wind-sheltered, flat-bottomed couloir, which you follow all the way up to the pass itself (marked by a large stone cross). In poor visibility or when there is avalanche danger, we recommend skiing down along the ascent track toward the monastery buildings and on to the parking lot. Extended variant: In stable conditions you can continue higher to Sabertse Peak (3218 m) and ski down a wide, steep couloir, which gives you a more exciting descent ending at the upper parking lot.