CHORNOHORA COLLECTION: POPE IVAN CHORNOHIRSKYI

Main checkpoints: Dzembronia – Pope Ivan Chornohirskyi (2028 m.) – Dzembronia
Length: 21 km
Elevation gain: 1153 m
Complexity level: hard

Mt. Pope Ivan Chornohirskyi, also known as Chorna Hora (“Black Mountain”), is a legendary two-thousander in the Ukrainian Carpathians. Rising to 2028 meters, it is one of the most prominent summits of the Chornohora ridge – the highest mountain range in Ukraine, stretching over 40 kilometers.

Geologically, the Chornohora massif was formed during the Alpine orogeny. It is known for its massive structure, rounded summits, steep slopes, rocky screes, and glacial landforms – including cirques and trough-shaped valleys left behind by the last Ice Age.

At the top of the mountain stands the iconic “White Elephant” – a former Polish observatory. In winter, the thick layers of snow and frost that cover its walls give the building a ghostly white appearance, inspiring its nickname among locals.

The route to the summit begins in Dzembronia, a highland Hutsul village nestled at around 900 meters above sea level. It is one of the uttermost settlements in Ukraine. Among the Hutsuls, Pope Ivan Chornohirskyi is considered a sacred mountain, shrouded in local legends and folklore.

The trail winds through dense forests of fir, spruce, beech, then climbs through the subalpine zone – home to twisted thickets of dwarf pine that form the krummholz belt – before reaching alpine meadows rich with rare and endemic plant species. Among them are edelweiss, Arnica montana, pasqueflower, and twinflower, all listed in Ukraine’s Red Book of endangered species.

Wildlife along the route includes red deer, European roe deer, brown bear, lynx, black grouse, bullfinch, golden eagle, and a variety of alpine insects. With some luck, hikers might encounter animal tracks, hear the call of mountain birds, or spot a Carpathian marmot.

Panoramic scenery accompanies you throughout the journey. From the ridge, stunning views open up to the Svydovets, Marmarosy, and Gorgany ridges, and even the Romanian Carpathians. With its rich history and untamed beauty, this peak leaves a lasting impression on everyone who reaches it.

Join us on this path walked by scientists and explorers – and uncover the stories, landscapes, and biodiversity of one of Ukraine’s most iconic mountains.

Days of availability: Friday
Duration: 10-11 hours
Departure time: 07:00
Price: 2500 UAH

Who is this route for:

• Perfect for hiking enthusiasts with previous experience climbing Hoverla, Shpytsi, or any other two-thousander.
• Recommended for participants aged 12-60.
• Features a moderate pace, shorter distance, and gentle elevation gain.
• Conducted in small groups of up to 7 people – ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for everyone.

The price includes:

• transfer.
• mountain guide support.
• lunch box.
• medical insurance.

Not included / Extra cost:

• Trekking poles hire.

Booking:

Dear friends, we strongly recommend that you book our services in advance. In order to make a reservation, please provide our manager with the following info via Telegram, WhatsApp or Viber:

• the name of the tour;
• desired date;
• full names of each participant from your group;
• the hotel you reside in.

In response, the manager will send you a confirmation letter and a payment invoice. As soon as the payment is complete, you will receive another letter containing your travel schedule, time and place of meeting on the day of the tour.