Katyn-Tau
Mountain Caucasus mountain peak on the Russia–Georgia border
A high peak in the central Caucasus, Katyn‑Tau attracts climbers for technical routes, glaciated terrain and alpine views within the Greater Caucasus.
How to Get to Katyn-Tau #
Katyn‑Tau is accessible from the Greater Caucasus range; common staging points include Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) in Georgia and mountain towns in Russia’s North Ossetia-Alania. Road access varies by route; climbers typically travel by road to a local village then continue on foot or with pack horses. Hiring local guides from established alpine clubs is strongly advised.
Tips for Visiting Katyn-Tau #
- Acclimatize before attempting steep routes; Katyn‑Tau approaches include technical sections that require crampons and ropes in winter conditions.
- Consult regional mountaineering clubs in Vladikavkaz or Tbilisi for up-to-date route conditions and permit requirements.
- Respect local Ossetian customs when camping in villages - ask before pitching near homesteads.
Best Time to Visit Katyn-Tau #
Best visited in summer for climbing and trekking; spring and autumn are possible with appropriate alpine experience.
Weather & Climate near Katyn-Tau #
Katyn-Tau's climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with freezing summers (peaking in August) and freezing winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from -22°C to 3°C. Abundant rainfall (1145 mm/year), wettest in May.
January
January is freezing with highs of -15°C and lows of -21°C. Moderate rainfall (67 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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February
February is the coldest month with highs of -16°C and lows of -22°C. Moderate rainfall (71 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is freezing with highs of -14°C and lows of -21°C. Regular rainfall (84 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is freezing with highs of -9°C and lows of -14°C. Significant rainfall (112 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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May
May is freezing with highs of -5°C and lows of -10°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (130 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is freezing with highs of -1°C and lows of -7°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (130 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is freezing with highs of 3°C and lows of -4°C. Significant rainfall (114 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is freezing with highs of 3°C and lows of -3°C. Significant rainfall (105 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is freezing with highs of -1°C and lows of -6°C. Regular rainfall (84 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is freezing with highs of -6°C and lows of -10°C. Regular rainfall (80 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is freezing with highs of -11°C and lows of -15°C. Regular rainfall (85 mm), partly cloudy skies, and breezy conditions.
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December
December is freezing with highs of -14°C and lows of -19°C. Regular rainfall (83 mm), partly cloudy skies, and breezy conditions.