Nature at Your Doorstep
For residents of Krasnokamsk and the wider Kama region, one of the most underappreciated advantages of local life is the extraordinary natural landscape right outside the city. The Kama River, its tributaries, surrounding mixed forests, and the rolling terrain of Perm Krai together create an outdoor playground that rewards exploration in every season.
On the River: Water Activities
Kayaking and Canoeing
The Kama and its smaller tributaries — such as the Obva and Chusovaya rivers — are popular routes for kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts. The Chusovaya in particular is celebrated among paddlers for its dramatic cliff scenery (locally called boyets) and relatively manageable currents, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced kayakers.
Multi-day river trips are a tradition in the region, with participants camping on sandy riverbanks and fishing along the way. Organised kayaking clubs operate out of Perm and offer group trips that include equipment rental and guided routes.
Fishing
The Kama River supports rich fish populations, and angling is one of the most popular outdoor pursuits in the region. Common catches include pike (щука), perch (окунь), bream (лещ), and the prized sterlet (стерлядь), a small sturgeon species native to the Kama. Always check current local regulations, as certain species and stretches have seasonal restrictions.
Into the Forest: Hiking and Nature Walks
Perm Krai is largely forested — taiga and mixed woodland stretch in all directions from Krasnokamsk. Even short drives from the city open up excellent hiking territory.
- Local Forest Trails: Marked paths in the forests immediately surrounding Krasnokamsk are popular for weekend walks and mushroom picking in autumn.
- Kungur Ice Cave (Кунгурская пещера): One of the most visited natural attractions in the Urals, about 100 km south of Perm — a spectacular system of ice-filled limestone caves.
- Perm Krai Nature Reserves: The Basegi Nature Reserve protects pristine Ural ridge landscapes and offers hiking routes through stunning mountain meadows and spruce forests.
Seasonal Highlights
| Season | Top Activity | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | River watching & birdwatching | Ice break-up (ледоход) on the Kama is a dramatic annual spectacle; migratory birds return |
| Summer | Kayaking, fishing, beach days | Long days, warm river temperatures, sandy banks perfect for swimming and picnics |
| Autumn | Forest walks & mushroom picking | Spectacular foliage, ideal mushroom season — boletus, chanterelles, and more |
| Winter | Ice fishing & cross-country skiing | Frozen Kama opens for ice fishing; forest trails transform into ski routes |
Practical Tips for Outdoor Exploration
- Tell someone your plan: When venturing into forests or onto the river, always inform someone of your route and expected return time.
- Dress in layers: Kama region weather can change quickly; layering is essential even in summer.
- Tick awareness: Ticks are present in Ural forests from April through October. Wear long sleeves, use repellent, and check yourself after forest walks. Vaccination against tick-borne encephalitis is widely recommended for regular outdoor visitors.
- River safety: The Kama's currents can be deceptive near the reservoir. Swim only in designated areas and respect local warning signs.
Starting Your Exploration
The best way to begin is simply to head to the Krasnokamsk riverfront embankment on a clear morning. From there, the river stretches in both directions, the forest begins on the opposite bank, and the scale of natural beauty available in this region becomes immediately apparent. It is a reminder that one of the finest things about life in the Kama region is how accessible the natural world remains.