Yugyd Va National Park, National park in Komi Republic, Russia
Yugyd Va National Park spreads across the Ural region, encompassing mountain areas, foothills, and lowland zones connected by extensive taiga forest. The terrain changes as you move through different elevations, each with its own character.
The park was created in 1994 to protect the region's ancient forests from development. UNESCO recognized it as a World Heritage Site the following year for its importance in preserving pristine woodland.
The Komi and Nenets peoples have herded reindeer across this land for generations, and you can still see signs of these practices throughout the forests. Their way of living remains woven into how the region functions today.
You need to arrange a permit before entering and should prepare for basic lodging options in the area. Ranger stations serve as reference points and provide simple accommodation as you explore.
The park contains several major peaks, including Mount Narodnaya, which stands as a landmark along Europe's eastern boundary. For nearly two decades, this was Europe's largest protected park area.
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