Road to the Bears

Route at a glance

Most of the route stays under tree cover, with clearings and old tracks regularly opening the view. The character of the area is especially clear in mixed woodland, old forest tracks and small clearings. The most distinctive places are Vitebsk, Gorodok and To medvediam. It is worth allowing time for a brief stop at each one.

Route suitability

Without a car Yes

With children No

With a dog No

By bike Yes

With a stroller No

Mobile signal No data

Getting there

Without a car

Travel by train to Vitebsk, Polotsk, Navapolatsk or Orsha, choosing the hub closest to the trailhead. Continue by suburban train or district bus to the settlement near the trailhead.

By car

The main approaches use the M3, M8, P20 and P45, followed by district roads. Do not use closed service roads to lakes and forest areas.

Parking

Park beside a station, local council, visitor attraction or official lakeside area. Keep bus stops and forest turning areas clear.

What to expect

Vitebsk

Gorodok

To medvediam

Difficult sections and safety

Forest roads may include sand, ruts, branches, and washed-out patches. Slow down before blind bends, check tyre condition, and allow extra time for difficult surfaces.

How much time to allow

Pure moving time - 8–12 hours Complete time on the route - 10–14 hours

Best time to go

Best time: May–October, after forest tracks and unpaved sections have dried

Prolonged rain can create mud, deep sand, and washed-out ruts

Check the full-day forecast and local road conditions before setting out

What to bring

a cycling helmet

water and food

a charged phone with an offline map

a spare tube or repair kit and a pump

front and rear lights

windproof and waterproof layers

a small first-aid kit