Nature Park Ukok

Nature Park Ukok is a protected area in southern Siberia spanning roughly 19,845 square kilometers of mountain ranges, high plateaus, and diverse ecological zones. The terrain includes alpine meadows, rocky peaks, and river valleys that create distinct habitats across the landscape.

Nature Park Ukok was established in the Altai Republic as a major conservation effort in Russia's environmental protection history. Its creation reflected growing recognition that fragile mountain ecosystems needed formal protection from human activity.

Indigenous communities of the Altai Republic continue to use the land for traditional hunting and herding practices tied to seasonal patterns. These activities remain woven into daily life across the region.

The park is remote and requires permits before visiting, along with proper equipment for the challenging terrain. Travelers should prepare for harsh conditions and limited facilities, especially during colder months when access becomes more difficult.

The park holds Pleistocene geological features that reveal evidence of climate shifts from thousands of years ago. These formations provide researchers with clues about how the landscape transformed over deep time.