Returning from war is not just a physical journey home. It is a process of restoring inner balance, a sense of ground beneath one's feet, and trust in life. It is specifically for veterans of the Russian-Ukrainian war that the "Power of the Elements" project was created – a series of therapeutic journeys where nature, movement, and brotherhood become tools of deep recovery.
This stage of the project is a winter trek in the Carpathians in a small group of 8 veterans, which we will walk at a safe pace under the guidance of an experienced veteran team leader and military psychologist Maksym Chubyk. The main focus is not on kilometers, but on inner state, connection with oneself, and mutual support.
The camp will take place in the mountainous area of the Carpathians, where participants will once again find themselves among people who know from their own experience the difference between rear-area calm and the frontline. Winter in the mountains means silence, clarity, and honest conversation with oneself. Here it's easier to speak, to listen, and to be heard.
⚠️ Important:
As part of this trek (project), a documentary film dedicated to veterans' rehabilitation through nature and shared experience will be filmed. Trek participants may appear on camera – both during the route and during moments of live conversation and reflection.The "Power of the Elements" project is a long-term one. Within the scope of the documentary filming, the following are also planned:
- a veterans' rafting trip down the Dniester in spring,
- a summer trek in the Carpathians, as a continuation of the path of recovery, adaptation, and return to active life.
Our project is about support, presence, and moving forward – step by step.
Take your step toward inner silence and strength.
Meeting of the group in Ivano-Frankivsk and about 2.5 hours transfer to Osmoloda. Upon arrival we will have a snack, but we need to hurry, as it gets dark early, and we still need to reach our overnight spot - the Plistse mountain shelter.
The shelter cannot be booked and is open to everyone, so there is a chance that besides us there will be other adventure seekers. Tents might also come in handy.
Distance: 8-9.5 km depending on trail conditions, elevation gain: 700 - 750m.
Morning wake-up, a hearty breakfast, and we set off on our hike-ascent. We leave the main gear at the overnight spot, taking with us only the essentials and valuables: a thermos with tea, snacks, spare clothing, documents, money, and gear.
Depending on the group's pace and the amount of snow, we may descend to the shelter for lunch, or have a snack on the route. The summit offers stunning views of the Gorgany mountains, and winter mountains are truly a fairy tale!
Distance: 7.5 km, elevation gain 630 m, descent 630 m
We repeat the previous day's schedule, but today we climb a different peak - Mount Grofa.
If the avalanche situation allows, we will descend by a different trail, along the slopes of Mount Grofa. New views, whimsical fir trees under the snow - even more impressions, enjoyment, and recharge. First we will reach the shelter below Kin-Grofetsky, rest there, and continue the descent to Kotelets. After that we will come out onto the already familiar road and have lunch near the so-called "Triangle". A transfer will already be waiting here, which will take us, inspired and full of impressions, back to civilization!
Distance: 8-9.5 km depending on trail conditions, descent: 700 - 750m
⚠️ Important:
As part of this trip (project), a documentary film will be filmed dedicated to the rehabilitation of veterans through nature and shared experience. Trip participants may appear on camera - both during the route and in moments of live communication and reflection.
Depending on weather conditions, condition, and general wishes of the group, the team leader has the right to make changes to the route.
The meeting with the team leader takes place at Kuluar Hub near the Ivano-Frankivsk railway station. The group meeting time is set taking into account the arrival time of trains from the main directions. So feel free to apply for the veterans' hike no matter which city you are in!
To participate in the hike you must be in physical shape that allows you to cover routes of about 10 km per day. Also, you must not have any illnesses incompatible with active tourism: the list is here.
We've rated this route as above average difficulty. There can be deep snow, possible overnight stays in winter in tents or at a shelter (which may be occupied), elevation gain on the first day (9 km/700 m), the second day involves manageable day hikes, and the third day has a steep descent of about 400 m.
Special feature: identical to the summer program "Gorgany Cedars," making it the best option for your first winter tent hike.
As always, we recommend buying tickets in advance, although there are often still seats available on trains even a week before the hike starts. Buy your ticket there so that you arrive at Kuluar Hub near the Ivano-Frankivsk railway station by 8 AM on the day the hike starts. A slight delay is acceptable. For the return trip, buy a ticket for the evening, ideally between 8-10 PM, so you'll have time to walk around Ivano-Frankivsk.
You should only buy tickets after we've confirmed your participation in the hike. You can do this at ticket offices at the railway station or online on the Ukrzaliznytsia website.
The group meeting point is 35 Mykhaila Mulyka St., near the Gorgany store.
The time is set based on the last arriving participant. About 5-7 days before the hike, we'll send you the exact meeting time and the team leader's contacts via email. Don't forget to check your email!
Classic winter weather with lots of snow and nighttime temperatures around -10. Given that the forest here is quite dense, the snow doesn't melt even after several consecutive sunny days.
You're probably wondering what we'll be eating on the hike? We can tell you right away - there's no need to worry. Many participants say they eat better on the hike than at home. The menu is based on simple food - porridges and soups. Don't expect gourmet delicacies (although there might be some).
If there are foods you don't eat, be sure to let your consultant know so the team leader can adjust the menu slightly for you. We also recommend bringing some pocket snacks - nuts or sweets. Your appetite on the hike is much better than at home.
Please note that the menu shown is approximate. Team leaders usually have their own signature dishes they love to treat participants with.
There are also optional expenses. Participants buy dried porcini mushrooms, souvenirs, and sometimes have dinner at a restaurant (for example, at the legendary "Desyatka"). We recommend having at least 300 UAH with you. The maximum amount is up to you.
