10 Highest Mountains in Ukraine That Will Make You Fall in Love with the Carpathians

Ukraine has more than 600 mountain peaks higher than 1,000 meters, most of them in the Carpathians. This is where ten of the country’s tallest summits rise above the clouds, all over 1,900 meters. Each peak has its own character – from calm Hoverla to wild Petros, from mysterious Pip Ivan with its “White Elephant” observatory to the quiet lakes near Brebeneskul. The mountains of Ukraine are open to everyone – from beginners to seasoned hikers. You can always choose a summit that matches your pace and level of experience.

Hoverla – 2,061 m

Hoverla is the highest mountain in Ukraine, standing 2,061 meters tall on the border of the Ivano-Frankivsk and Zakarpattia regions. The mountain has comfortable trails and several popular routes. Most hikers start from the Zaroslyak base near Vorokhta.

The ascent takes about 3–4 hours. There are two main routes – a short, steep one and a longer but gentler one. Both lead to the summit, which offers a panoramic view of the entire Chornohora Ridge. On a clear day, you can even see Romania beyond the Ukrainian mountains.

There are resting spots, wooden steps, and signs along the trail. In summer, Hoverla is very popular, so it’s best to start early in the morning. In autumn, it’s quieter but often foggy and cold. In winter, it turns into a difficult and dangerous route without proper experience or gear.

Fun fact: The Prut River starts at Hoverla’s foot, and at the top stands a large cross and a stone engraved with Ukraine’s coat of arms.

Brebeneskul – 2,035 m

Brebeneskul is the second-highest mountain in Ukraine. Its slopes are covered with alpine meadows, and nearby lies the country’s highest mountain lake – Lake Brebeneskul (1,801 m). Most routes start from the villages of Bystrets or Luhy. Even the shortest hike usually takes 10–12 hours, so hikers often camp overnight in the meadows. Multi-day trails are common here.

Clouds often gather around the peak, making it feel like you’re walking through the sky. Many travelers say the sunrise by Lake Brebeneskul is one of the most beautiful in the Carpathians.

Tip: The best time for the hike is summer or early fall. The water in the lake stays icy cold year-round – swimming is not recommended.

Pip Ivan Chornohirskyi – 2,021 m

Pip Ivan Chornohirskyi is known for the ruins of a former Polish astronomical observatory on its summit, nicknamed the “White Elephant.” It looks like an ancient fortress watching the sky. The trail usually starts from the villages of Dzembronia or Shybene. This is a long and rewarding hike, often taking two days. Along the way, you’ll see sweeping views of Chornohora, mountain streams, and open pastures.

What to know:

• The climb is harder than Hoverla.
• It’s easy to lose the trail in fog.
• From the top, you can see both the Ukrainian and Romanian Carpathians.

In clear weather, the observatory looks almost magical. In winter, it’s often buried under deep snow. Today, it hosts a mountain rescue post and partially restored rooms.

Petros – 2,020 m

Petros stands next to Hoverla but attracts far fewer tourists. It’s steeper, rockier, and has sharper elevation changes. That makes it more challenging – but also gives a real sense of adventure.

The route usually begins in the village of Kvasy, known for its mineral springs. The trail goes through the Menchul meadow and up the ridge. The climb takes about 5–6 hours. From the top, you’ll see Hoverla, the Svydovets range, and the mountains of both Ukraine and Romania.

What to know before you go:

• Trails are rocky, especially near the top.
• In bad weather, Petros can be dangerous due to slippery rocks and strong winds.
• Water sources are available only in the lower sections.

Petros is perfect for hikers with some experience. It’s quieter here, with fewer crowds and more solitude. If you want to feel the true power of the Carpathians, this is the mountain to climb.

Hutyn Tomnatyk – 2,016 m

Hutyn Tomnatyk sits near Brebeneskul and is one of the least visited peaks of the Chornohora range, making it a peaceful and pristine place. The ascent is often combined with a visit to Lake Brebeneskul. From the lake, it takes just a few hours to reach the top. The trails are marked but steep.

Route highlights:

• Stunning views across Chornohora.
• You can camp near the lake.
• Fewer tourists than on Hoverla or Petros.

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Hutyn Tomnatyk is a great choice for those who want to explore Ukraine’s highest Carpathian peaks without the crowds. In summer, the alpine flowers are in full bloom, and in the evening, the only sound you hear is the wind.

Rebra – 2,001 m

Rebra (meaning “ribs”) lies between Brebeneskul and Hutyn Tomnatyk. The mountain got its name from its shape – a long ridge with stone “ribs” stretching down the slopes.

From here, you get incredible views of the entire Chornohora range. Hikers often include Rebra as part of a longer trail covering several peaks in a row. In summer, you’ll see mountain pastures with grazing sheep, blooming rhododendrons in June, and sometimes even wild horses roaming the ridge.

The ascent from the Brebeneskul side is not very hard, so it’s accessible even for less experienced hikers. The main thing is to stay on the ridge and keep your direction.

Menchul – 1,998 m

Menchul isn’t as famous as Hoverla or Petros – and that’s what makes it special. The mountain lies between the Ivano-Frankivsk and Zakarpattia regions. It’s quiet, spacious, and rarely crowded.

Many hikers climb it as part of a multi-day route across the Chornohora ridge. The trails are gentle and without steep sections, perfect for relaxed mountain walks. In spring, the slopes bloom with crocuses – a sight that will make you fall in love with Ukraine’s mountains forever.

Pip Ivan Marmarosskyi – 1,936 m

Pip Ivan Marmarosskyi stands right on Ukraine’s border with Romania. Its summit belongs to the Marmarosy Massif, often called the “Hutsul Alps” because of its steep slopes and rocky ridges. This area is famous for its raw, untouched nature and a deep sense of freedom.

The climb here is tougher than most Chornohora peaks. The route crosses passes and steep rocky paths. The most popular trail starts in the village of Dilove – the geographic center of Europe – and leads through the Lysychya meadow before ascending the ridge to the summit.

Turkul – 1,933 m

Turkul is one of the best-known peaks of the Chornohora Ridge. Its steep triangular slopes drop sharply down to Lake Nesamovyte, a place famous for its mystical energy. The air is always windy here, and the sky feels closer than anywhere else.

The Turkul climb is usually part of the trail that passes Hoverla, Breskul, and Rebra. The easiest start is from the Zaroslyak base. From Hoverla, it takes about 3–4 hours of steady walking to reach Turkul. A stone cairn marks the summit – a guiding point for hikers traveling along the ridge.

Traveler’s tip: The weather can change suddenly. Always carry a rain jacket and warm clothes.

Breskul – 1,911 m

Breskul is one of the easiest peaks to climb. It lies between Hoverla and Turkul, so hikers often visit it along the way to one of those higher summits. It’s a calm and pleasant climb, with clearly marked trails and views that rival those from the taller peaks. From the top, you can see the entire Chornohora range and even the distant Svydovets mountains.

Why Breskul is a good choice:

• Perfect for a one-day hike.
• Gentle, safe slopes for beginners.
• Several beautiful mountain meadows nearby for rest or camping.

Breskul is ideal for those just starting to explore the Ukrainian mountains. It gives you a real sense of height without pushing your limits.