Five scenic routes within Pribaikalsky National Park remain closed as authorities assess the risk posed by dry conditions and strong winds. The suspension comes after a formal decision reported by TASS, citing the park’s management team coordinated by Zapovednoe Pribaikalye. The closures affect several popular paths and waterways that attract visitors each season.
Effective May 10, the following routes are closed: Buguldeyka to Bolshaya Marta to Petrova, the Tazherany circuit, the Tyrgan to Sagan-Zaba corridor, and the Chernorud to Sarma to Kurma route, along with the water area of the Small Sea Strait and its island group. The park administration has halted all access to these sections to prevent the risk of fire spreading and to safeguard both guests and conservation work.
Experts note that the elevated fire hazard class is driven by gusty winds and abundant dry grass that can ignite quickly under heat and spark of any flame. Park rangers and safety teams are conducting continuous monitoring and coordinating with local weather services to determine when conditions will allow a safe reopening. Visitors are urged to respect the restrictions and plan alternative itineraries that avoid the restricted areas.
Pribaikalsky National Park, established in 1986, is dedicated to protecting rare flora and fauna and preserving the unique landscapes around Lake Baikal. The protected belt along the lake stretches for about 470 kilometers, marking it as the longest national park in Russia by coastline. The park covers roughly 417.3 thousand hectares, with diverse ecosystems ranging from open steppes to forested shores and temperate wetlands. Park staff emphasize ongoing efforts to monitor species, conduct scientific research, and engage local communities in conservation actions.
In a recent incident reported from Baikal National Park, four visitors from Moscow faced scrutiny after attempting to light a fire to burn a tick while camping. The group called for help themselves as the flame took hold, prompting a rescue response. After extinguishing the fire and evaluating the damage, authorities are reviewing potential administrative liability, with the possibility of criminal charges if conditions warrant. This event underscores the imperative of strict fire safety and adherence to park rules to protect fragile habitats and public safety.
As the park continues its mission to safeguard Baikal’s remarkable natural heritage, officials advise travelers to stay informed about current closures, follow posted guidance, and prepare adaptable plans. Visitors can expect periodic updates as weather patterns shift and fire risk levels change. The park’s priority remains the preservation of endangered species and their habitats, along with providing educational opportunities for guests to understand the region’s ecological significance.