Winter Hikes & Activities Near Almaty
Almaty doesn't shut down in winter - it just changes gear. From skiing at Shymbulak and skating at Medeo to snowshoe trails, frozen blue lakes and steaming hot springs, here are the best things to do in the mountains from December to March, each as a private guided trip.
Compare at a glance
| Trip | Activity | From Almaty | Duration | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shymbulak Ski Resort | Skiing | 25 km | Day trip | $62 |
| Kok-Zhailau Snowshoe | Snowshoe hike | 20 min | Half day | $72 |
| Medeo Ice Rink | Ice skating | 15 km | Half day | $62 |
| Alma-Arasan Hot Springs | Hot springs | 30-min drive | Half day | $60 |
| Big Almaty Lake (Frozen) | Frozen lake | ~1 h | Half day | $72 |
| Chundzha Hot Springs | Thermal resort | 4-5 h drive | Weekend | $82 |
6 winter hikes & activities
1Shymbulak Ski Resort
Skiing25 km · Day trip · from $62
Kazakhstan's top ski resort, a gondola ride above Medeo and just 25 km from the city. Beginner and intermediate slopes, tubing and snowshoeing, with reliable snow from November to April and apres-ski at the top.
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2Kok-Zhailau Snowshoe
Snowshoe hike20 min · Half day · from $72
The city's favourite plateau turns into a quiet snowshoe trail in winter. A steady climb through snowy forest to a wide alpine meadow with views over a white Almaty - no experience needed and gear provided.
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3Medeo Ice Rink
Ice skating15 km · Half day · from $62
Skate on the world's highest Olympic ice rink at 1,691 m, ringed by snowy peaks just outside the city. Pair it with the gondola up to Shymbulak for lunch and views.
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4Alma-Arasan Hot Springs
Hot springs30-min drive · Half day · from $60
Winter is the best time for these radon springs - a gentle 30 to 45 minute hike through a snowy gorge, then a warm soak in a rocky pool surrounded by white mountains. The cold-air, warm-water contrast is unbeatable.
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5Big Almaty Lake (Frozen)
Frozen lake~1 h · Half day · from $72
The famous turquoise lake turns a deep, glassy blue under winter ice and snow - arguably its most photogenic season. A guided trip with a 4WD up the snowy road and a short walk to the shore.
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6Chundzha Hot Springs
Thermal resort4-5 h drive · Weekend · from $82
A weekend escape to thermal bath pools near the Chinese border, brilliant in cold weather. Soak in warm mineral water, eat Uyghur food, and combine it with Charyn Canyon on the way.
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Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to hike near Almaty in winter?
Yes, on the right routes and with a guide. We stick to safe lower snowshoe trails and resort areas; the high passes and summits need real mountaineering experience and gear.
Do I need special equipment?
We provide snowshoes, poles and safety gear for winter hikes, and you can rent everything for skiing at Shymbulak. Just bring warm layers, gloves and waterproof boots.
When is the winter season?
December to March is reliable for snow, with the ski season running November to April. The hot springs and ice rink work all winter.
Can beginners ski at Shymbulak?
Yes - the lower zone has beginner slopes and group lessons, and we can arrange an instructor and rentals.
What's the best winter trip if I only have a day?
Medeo plus Shymbulak (skate, then ride the gondola up), or a snowshoe hike on Kok-Zhailau followed by a soak at the Alma-Arasan hot springs.
Make the most of winter
Snow, ice and steaming springs - all as private guided trips from Almaty. Tell us your dates and we'll match you to the right winter adventure.
Choose a tripOpen any trip above to see live dates and book on its page.
Or explore the trails yourself with the FriendHike app
