Medovyye Vodopady, Waterfall system in Karachay-Cherkessia, Russia
Medovyye Vodopady is a system of five waterfalls arranged in cascading formation on the northern slopes of the Rocky Ridge, with water dropping from heights of around 18 meters. The separate sections are connected by marked trails and together create a varied landscape of falling water and rocky terrain.
The waterfalls got their name from wild bees that once nested in rock crevices, with spring waters carrying honey down into the streams below. This honey-bearing water was a notable feature of the landscape in ancient times.
The waterfalls are divided into distinct sections with names like Devil's Mill, Pearl, and Large Falls, each reflecting stories that matter to people in this region. You can learn about these local tales as you walk along the paths between them.
You can reach the waterfalls via marked trails starting from two different parking areas, both easily accessible by vehicle. The terrain requires sturdy shoes and some time to explore all the separate sections at a comfortable pace.
During winter months, flowing water freezes into natural ice formations along the rock faces, creating frozen sculptures that look almost like art. Few visitors see this transformation, which happens only when temperatures drop low enough.
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