‘Krasnye Kamni’ is a “cosmic” canyon with icy waterfalls and red rocks in the Russian Far North

Pavel Kuzmichev
Pavel Kuzmichev
The ‘Krasnye Kamni’ (‘Red Rocks’) canyon is located only 6 km away from the industrial polar city of Norilsk.

Pavel Kuzmichev
Pavel Kuzmichev
Pavel Kuzmichev
Pavel Kuzmichev

It is one of the most popular places of outdoor recreation for Norilsk residents, as you can even stroll around. Climbers can also practice their skills. 

Pavel Kuzmichev
Pavel Kuzmichev
Pavel Kuzmichev
Pavel Kuzmichev

The striking landscape is formed by two mountains about 600 meters tall and resembling a horseshoe in shape.

Pavel Kuzmichev
Pavel Kuzmichev
Pavel Kuzmichev
Pavel Kuzmichev

In the cracks of the rocks, you can see numerous volcanic rock inclusions, which give the gorge its red-brown color. Overall, the scenery seems out-of-this-world!

Pavel Kuzmichev
Pavel Kuzmichev
Pavel Kuzmichev
Pavel Kuzmichev

Local guides call the ‘Krasnye Kamni’ a "gateway to the Putorana Plateau": The gorge is considered to be a part of the Kharaelakh mountain massif, the foothills of the plateau.

Pavel Kuzmichev
Pavel Kuzmichev

The Evenk language name of the massif translates as ‘Spruce Stone’. As on the plateau, one can see mountains without peaks, huge ice on lakes even in summer and beautiful, high rising waterfalls.

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