Road to the Bears

Route at a glance

Two contrasting types of scenery shape “Road to the Bears”: rough trails and sections away from paved roads. The route calls for endurance but offers a sustained immersion in the regional landscape. Notable reference points include Vitebsk and Gorodok. This route is worth choosing for lively woodland terrain and a route that feels removed from ordinary paved roads. There is enough space in the day to look around and notice smaller details.

Route suitability

Without a car Difficult

With children No

With a dog No

By bike Yes

With a stroller No

Mobile signal No data

Getting there

Without a car

The main transport reference point for a car-free journey is Vitebsk. Choose a suitable train or intercity bus, then cover the final section by local transport, taxi, or under your own power; check the rules for carrying a bicycle in advance. The circular format returns to the starting point.

By car

Drive to the start on public roads in the Vitebsk Region. The final approach may use a rural or forest road, so assess conditions after rain and do not pass restriction signs or barriers.

Parking

Leave the vehicle only in a clearly permitted area in the nearest settlement or at an official entrance to the natural area. Do not block forest roads, barriers, local access, or emergency routes.

What to expect

Vitebsk

Gorodok

unpaved and forest sections

long roads and small towns

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