Devichyi Kosy, Waterfall in Elbrussky District, Russia
Devichyi Kosy is a waterfall in the Elbrussky District of Kabardino-Balkaria, Russia, falling about 32 meters (about 104 feet) down a broad rock face. The water splits into many narrow, intertwined streams that run parallel along the stone surface, giving the fall a curtain-like shape.
This waterfall took shape over a very long period as meltwater from snow and glaciers cut through the Caucasus rock layers. The different hardness of those layers explains why the water spreads across a wide face rather than falling in a single jet.
Locals call this waterfall Maiden's Braids because the thin water streams twist down the rock face like plaited hair. Standing in front of it, the name feels entirely natural, as the pattern in the water really does resemble long braids laid against stone.
The waterfall is reachable on foot from the Terskol area by following marked paths, and sturdy footwear is a good idea since the ground near the fall can be wet and slippery. The warmest months offer the most comfortable walking conditions, though the site can be visited in other seasons too.
In winter, the outer streams can freeze solid while the central ones keep flowing, so you can see both ice and moving water on the same rock face at the same time. This contrast is most visible from the path directly in front of the fall, where the full width of the rock face is easy to take in.
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