Bolshie Koty - Bolshoe Goloustnoe (Great Baikal Trail)

Bolshie Koty → Bolshoe Goloustnoe is the Great Baikal Trail (GBT) hiking link along the western shore of Lake Baikal, mapped here as a moderate long-distance day-to-multi-day trek of about 12.51 km on the specific tracked segment.

The corridor is track (not a paved route) with frequent stretches that follow rocky or pebbly shoreline. Expect sections where the path drops toward the water, then climbs back up again through coastal terrain.

A key character change comes around Cape Skriper (Scriper) and the approach toward the Kadilnaya area: the trail transitions into steeper, hillier ground and then back toward the coast as you work through the coastal valleys.

Near cliffy coastal spots, you may encounter constructed descent/ascent features (including steps) and at least one notorious high-exposure crossing area known as “Devil’s Bridge,” where the route passes above a rocky beach and can be physically demanding.

The Kadilnaya area includes a Pribaikalsky National Park ranger cordon, and the route leads onward toward Malaya Kadilnaya; there’s also a Chapel Cave area accessible via a spur path and wooden steps, with the upper path considered less desirable due to partial collapse.

For planning and access: this hike requires a backcountry permit for Pribaikalsky National Park areas, typically obtained through park administration or forestry/ranger offices serving the corridor.

Logistically, this is a remote shoreline trek with limited services; Bolshie Koty has an irregular shop and basic overnight options, while fuller supplies and food options are more associated with Bolshoe Goloustnoe.

GBTs longer thru-hike is multiple points across several days; this specific link is part of the overall multi-day Great Baikal Trail framework between Bolshie Koty and Bolshoe Goloustnoe.

More information: Great Baikal Trail, Adventure at the Lake Baikal - Tari Travel, Big Cats - Big Goloustnoe | GBT - Great Baikal Trail