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Brebeneskul
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Mount Brebeneskul is the second highest peak in Ukraine, standing at an elevation of 2,035 meters within the Chornohora range of the Carpathians. It is situated on the main ridge of the mountains, acting as a watershed between the Prut and Tisa river basins. The mountain's pyramid-like silhouette was shaped by glacial processes, evidenced by the large stone runs and cirques on its slopes. Located in a glacial bowl directly below the summit lies Lake Brebeneskul, which at 1,801 meters is the highest alpine lake in Ukraine. The peak is protected within the Carpathian Biosphere Reserve and hosts rare subalpine plant species. It is a vital milestone for hikers undertaking the legendary high-altitude trek across the six Ukrainian peaks that exceed 2,000 meters.
- Location: Ukraine
- Top sights: Menchul · Brebeneskul · Dzembronia
- Nearby: Verkhovyna (19 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -7 | -5 | -1 | 6 | 11 | 15 | 17 | 17 | 12 | 6 | 1 | -4 |
| Rain mm | 51 | 51 | 65 | 66 | 114 | 125 | 120 | 80 | 76 | 69 | 56 | 55 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Mount Brebeneskul is situated in the heart of the Chornohora massif and is best reached via hiking trails from Mount Pop Ivan or the summit of Hoverla. Common starting points for ascending into this central high-mountain area include the town of Verkhovyna or the Zaroslyak sport station.
Best season
The well-suited time to visit is between July and September, when the snow has melted and the high-altitude trails are safely traversable. Since Brebeneskul exceeds 2,000 meters in elevation, sudden winter weather and snowfall can occur even in June or October in this alpine environment.
Terrain & paths
The terrain is high-alpine and demanding, featuring stony paths along the main Chornohora ridge and vast alpine meadows. Reaching Ukraine's second-highest peak requires sure-footedness and excellent physical condition for long treks in the thinner mountain air of the high massif.
What to bring
Professional hiking boots and high-quality protective clothing against wind, rain, and cold are indispensable for this exposed summit. A sleeping bag and tent are necessary if you plan to stay overnight near the nearby Lake Brebeneskul, as there are no mountain huts in the immediate vicinity.
Parking
There are no parking lots directly at the mountain; visitors use the parking areas at trailheads in Zaroslyak or Kvasny. Since these locations are far from the summit, you should leave your vehicle in a secure spot in the valley and prepare for a long approach along the mountain ridges.
Safety
Disorientation during sudden fog is a real danger; always carry a map and a GPS device with you. Be mindful of physical exhaustion during long treks along the main ridge and always carry a basic first-aid kit in your backpack for emergencies in this remote high-altitude environment.
Time needed
Due to its remote location in the Chornohora massif, a visit is typically part of a two- to three-day trek across the ridge. A round-trip hike on the same day is extremely long from most starting points, requiring about 10 to 12 hours of active walking time in challenging mountain terrain.
Geography
Facts
- Brebeneskul stands at 2,035 meters, the 2nd highest point in Ukraine.
- The mountain is located on the central part of the Chornohora ridge.
- Lake Brebeneskul, the highest in Ukraine at 1,801m, lies in its cirque.
- The peak remains snow-covered for up to seven months of the year.
- It is composed of flysch deposits, typical of the Outer Carpathians.
- The summit is a key part of the Carpathian Biosphere Reserve.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Brebeneskul (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How high is Mount Brebeneskul?
At 2035 meters, it is the second-highest mountain in Ukraine.
In which massif is it located?
It is located in the Chornohora massif of the Ukrainian Carpathians.
Is there a lake there?
Right at its foot lies Lake Brebeneskul, the highest lake in Ukraine.
How difficult is the ascent?
The mountain is part of a popular ridge hike and is not technically difficult, but requires endurance.
What view does the peak offer?
On a clear day, you can see the entire Chornohora massif and as far as Romania.
Brebeneskul: where is it located?
Brebeneskul is located in Ukraine.
Brebeneskul: what is there to see?
Highlights include Menchul, Brebeneskul, Dzembronia.
Brebeneskul: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Brebeneskul: why is it worth visiting?
Mount Brebeneskul is the second highest peak in Ukraine, standing at an elevation of 2,035 meters within the Chornohora range of the Carpathians.
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