Shkhara Glacier Hike from Ushguli With Stunning Glacier Views

This is a map and a basic overview of the out and back trail to the Shkhara Glacier, which lies close to the village of Ushguli, Georgia. This trail is mostly flat and makes for a pleasant and easy half-day trip from the village of Ushguli.

☛ Better yet, add on a trip to the Shkhara Glacier after trekking through the Caucasus Mountains from Mestia to Ushguli!

It's also worth a note that Mount Shkhara is the highest point in the entire country of Georgia at an elevation of 17,037 ft (5,193 m). Another reason to take this Ushguli day hike.

Here's how to reach the Shkhara Glacier as a casual half day hike from Ushguli Georgia.

⁉️ If downloading the map, please verify that the map is correct and follows the waypoints. Oftentimes, there are daily updates to the site, map platforms, and other external issues that may cause a bug in downloading. Be mindful that this map is solely for entertainment purposes. See my full disclosure here. Always hike responsibly and respect the mountains by following a no-trace philosophy, avoid hiking alone, be conscious of the weather and personal limitations, and do not stray from the visible trail

Shkhara Glacier Hike from Ushguli Georgia

• Out & Back Trail

  • The trail follows along a gravel road and the hiking paths parallel to the road from the quaint village of Ushguli

• Mileage: Almost 5 miles one-way
• Excursion Duration: Allow at least 4 hours (round-trip) to fully appreciate the hike to Shkhara Glacier
• Worthwhile Pit-Stop: There's a nice cafe with views of the glacier. The small cafe serves up simple food, beverages, and snacks and have outdoor tables. Try an artisanal Georgian beer or simply relax and soak in the stunning mountain views.
• Intrepid travelers reach Ushguli via the 4 day trek from Mestia, or by taking a day trip from Mestia

🥾 Interested in the 4 Day Mestia to Ushguli trek? Download the free map here

Overview of the Hike to Shkhara Glacier

Arrive in Ushguli via a hike or by marshrutka. Day trippers from Mestia will be dropped off in Ushguli near the Cafe-Bar Enguri. Those who just hiked into Ushguli may wish to drop off their backpacks at a guest house to alleviate any unnecessary weight.

➜ Browse the Best Guesthouses in Ushguli here

Walk through the village of Ushguli by following along the Inguri River. Look for a bridge and cross it.  The river will now be to your right hand side. Follow along the flat gravel road and the hiking trail that accompanies the road.

Note | There are many horses and guides who offer their services to reach the Shkara Glacier via horseback. Using a horse would significantly cut down this excursion duration. Please, always analyze the animals well being before deciding on using one.

After 3.5 miles of the main bridge crossing, look for the wooden Shkhara Glacier Restaurant on the right hand side. This is a great spot that offers indoor and outdoor seating, food, soups, and beers. It's worth a stop either before or after a visit to the Shkhara Glacier viewpoint since the views from the cafe are very nice. Arriving early in the afternoon, I found the trail to be quite abandoned and quiet.

Those who want a closer look at the Shkhara Glacier can continue further ahead on the path or begin to veer to the left for a lovely viewpoint. The viewpoint of the Shkhara Glacier is excellent and easy to reach.

To return to Ushguli, continue back on the same gravel road that you took to reach the glacier; however, I suggest a pit-stop at the small restaurant before returning to the village of Ushguli.

More Upper Svaneti Region Georgia Resources

• Check out all these awesome things to do in Mestia
• Tbilisi to Mestia the Best Way to Reach the Upper Svaneti Region

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• Spend Two Days Sipping Kakheti Wine in the village of Sighnaghi
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More Georgia Hikes in the Caucasus Mountains

• Truso Valley Hike | Easy Day Trip from Kazbegi (Stepantsminda)
• Juta Valley Trek | 2 Day Trek Via the Chaukhi Pass to Roshka