Chusovaya River: among the Ural rocks and forests

The Urals is a natural border between Europe and Asia. Hundreds of rivers and streams run from the mountains. And only Chusovaya River carries its waters among the rocks and forests from Asia to Europe through the mountain range. This place will be interesting for rafters, cavers and those who like to admire beautiful landscapes. Each rock, every turn, every bend of the river keeps its history, its legends…

Choose your route

Chusovaya River flows through the territory of Sverdlovsk and Perm regions. Its length is about 600 kilometers. Keep in mind that the most beautiful places on Chusovaya are from the village of Sloboda to Verkhnyaya Oslyanka. The distance between them along the river is approximately 230 kilometers. If you are ready to row for two weeks, you can go through the entire tourist route. This time is enough to take a break from civilization and enjoy the majestic beauty of the ancient Urals. Travel agencies offer shorter options - 2-3 days or a week. Depending on the time you have, the place to start your journey is selected. Many travel agencies offer to rent the necessary equipment for rafting as well.

Past and present of Chusovaya River

There are two versions of the name of Chusovaya River. From the languages of the peoples inhabiting these places in antiquity, Chusovaya is translated as “fast water” or “river in a canyon”. In the old days, Chusovaya was a full-flowing river, and large vessels flowed along. Now, it is shallow and not so fast, which means it is suitable for rafting activities, even for beginners.

Rocks and caves

The major tourist attraction of the area is a great number of high rocks located along the shoreline. They are called "stones." Almost every stone has its own name and its own story. Many of them have caves, such as Dyrovaty Stone. Its sheer high cliff resembles an idol with an open mouth. The mouth is the entrance to the cave. It was believed that when sailing by boat, one had to get from the bow to the idol’s mouth and the hunting would be successful. Thousands of arrowheads and lead buckshot of a later period were found inside the cave. Scientists also discovered that for many thousands of years, this place was a sanctuary.

History, legends, secrets and some mysticism will add to your vacation a little pepper. Chusovaya River, flowing among the Ural rocks and forests, will stay in your mind for a long time, as soon as you close your eyes.