Black Trail Borzhomi: A Trail to Open Summits

Route at a glance

The lower section offers a gradual start before woodland gives way to more open terrain. Even the connecting sections remain engaging because of wooded lower slopes, mountain meadows and rocky ground. Particular attention should be given to Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, Chiornaia and Borjomi. These are the places that give the route its recognisable character.

Route suitability

Without a car Difficult

With children No

With a dog With caution

By bike No

With a stroller No

Mobile signal Patchy

Getting there

Without a car

Travel from Tbilisi to Borjomi by train, coach or minibus. Register at the national-park visitor centre and confirm which entrance is best for the approach to the trailhead.

By car

From Tbilisi, follow the S1 and then the S8 via Khashuri to Borjomi. Beyond the town, use only authorised access roads to national-park entrances.

Parking

Leave the car at the visitor centre or in the official car park for the chosen entrance. Keep ranger access and barriers clear.

What to expect

Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park

Chiornaia

Borjomi

Difficult sections and safety

Long climbs and descents can slow the pace considerably, especially on wet or rocky ground. The finish is separate from the start, so arrange the return journey before setting out. Download an offline map and tell someone when you expect to return.

How much time to allow

Pure moving time - 3–4 hours Complete time on the route - 3.5–6.5 hours

Best time to go

Best time: June–September, when the main trails are usually clear of lasting snow

Ice, snow and rapid weather changes are possible at the beginning and end of the season

Check the full-day forecast for the higher parts of the route before setting out

What to bring

shoes with grippy soles

water and food

a charged phone with an offline map

a small first-aid kit

windproof and waterproof layers

a warm layer and a hat

trekking poles if you use them