Best time to visit Ukraine

Carpathian Tram in Ukraine

Former industrial railway turned into a fascinating eco-friendly sight-seeing route

Best time: May–September (all year round)

Carpathian Tram

Carpathian tram (well, technically it's a train) once used to be the property of a local landowner. It was built to export timber from Boykivshchyna region to Austro-Hungarian Empire. After a while, the railway was destroyed and abandoned. Locals renovated it in 2003, and since then it has been used not only to transport the woods but also to amuse Carpathian tourists.

The picturesque route lies across the ethnohistorical region Boykivshchyna. It's home to Boiky—people distinguished by their militant and at the same time pious disposition.

The route varies according to tourists' preferences: it could last from three to eight hours and include different stops. The start (and end) point is a town of Vyhoda named after its beneficial location at the rivers crossing (a Ukrainian word "vyhoda" means "benefit"). The major landmarks along the route include river bridges, mineral water springs, waterfalls, and the hunting bog "Shyrkovets." These marshlands are a protected natural area. Mind that marshy terrain is rather risky to cross without a guide—there're only five safe paths. At the final stop of "Dubovyi Kut," the travellers have an optional picnic time.

An extended itinerary also includes the first salt deposits of Solotvyno; a stop in Mundynok with historical insight into ancient forest exploitation; the ascent to Magura mountain (1362 m); the ornithological reserve of Dzurkach and others.

As for the season, the Carpathian tram operates all year round. Warm summer weather offers a better experience as you may swim in the rivers and waterfalls. However, colorful fall and snowy winter sceneries are also admirable.

Practical info

What is the history of the Carpathian Tram in Ukraine?

Initially, The Carpathian Tram was utilized to export wood from Boykivshchyna to the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The tram was eventually abandoned but was later rebuilt as an eco-friendly sight-seeing route. The journey through the ethnohistorical region of Boykivshchyna is renowned for its scenic views and cultural heritage as the Boiky people have lived there for generations, exhibiting a strong fighting spirit and religious devotion. Locals take pride in transforming the tram into an attraction that people from all over the world appreciate today. Show more

What are the main landmarks along the Carpathian Tram route?

As tourists traverse the Carpathian Tram route, they come across various landmarks such as mineral water springs, river bridges, waterfalls, and the hunting bog called 'Shyrkovets.' The hunting bog is a protected area with only a few safe trails to traverse. Bright spots during the journey include a halt in Mundynok that provides insightful knowledge about ancient forest exploitation; the first-ever salt deposits of Solotvyno; the ornithological reserve of Dzurkach, and a climb up the Magura mountain (1362 meters). Show more

When is the best time to visit the Carpathian Tram in Ukraine?

Adventurers can travel on the Carpathian Tram throughout the year. In summer, the climate is warm, and tourists can swim in the adjoining rivers and waterfalls for a memorable experience. Spring can become muddy and uncomfortable due to melting snow, so it is best avoided. On the other hand, the magical fall, snow-covered winter, and associated sights make it an ideal time to take the route. Show more

Are there any risks involved in crossing the hunting bog 'Shyrkovets'?

Crossing marshy terrain without a guide comes with an element of risk as only five safe routes are available. Tourists risk getting lost or stuck if they stray from the designated trails. Therefore, we advise visitors to take a local guide or remain on the provided safe tracks, unless they are experienced hikers or adept at taking risks. Show more

What are the extended routes that can be taken along the Carpathian Tram?

A hike along the Carpathian Tram can last between three to eight hours and has different stops for extended itineraries. Besides the river bridges, waterfalls, mineral water springs and 'Shyrkovets,' this excursion also features the first-ever salt deposits at Solotvyno. Additionally, the climb up Magura mountain (1362 meters) and a visit to the ornithological reserve of Dzurkach provide visitors with exciting and exclusive experiences, making it worth the trek. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin