Introduction: Where City Ends, Nature Begins
Surrounded by taiga forests, winding rivers, and wide-open landscapes, Tomsk is a gateway to outdoor adventures that feel remote yet remain remarkably accessible. Whether you seek the quiet solitude of a woodland trail, the thrill of paddling through calm waters, or the satisfaction of foraging your own food, the region offers something in every direction. In this guide from Wander Russia, we explore the best outdoor activities near Tomsk—suitable for all levels of fitness and interest, and perfect for those who want to move, breathe, and connect with Siberia’s soul.
Hiking and Nature Trails in the Tomsk Region
Tomsk’s geography makes it ideal for light to moderate hiking, with trails that wind through forests, meadows, and along rivers.
1. Mikhaylovskaya Grove
- Location: South of central Tomsk
- Distance: Various short loops (2–5 km)
- Landscape: Pine forest, sandy paths, wildflowers in spring and summer
- Experience: Quiet, flat trails suitable for families or solo walks
This grove is especially beautiful in autumn when the leaves turn gold and the air smells of resin and damp earth.
2. Zaimka Trail System
- Location: Near the TSU biological field station
- Distance: Trails range from 3 km to over 10 km
- Landscape: Mixed forest, open clearings, small streams
- Experience: Frequented by nature enthusiasts and local hiking clubs
A great place for spotting birds, mushrooms, or simply practicing forest mindfulness.
3. Beryozovaya Roshcha (Birch Grove) Outer Trails
- Location: Near the park, extending into forest perimeters
- Distance: Create your own loop
- Experience: Especially calming for early morning walks or evening strolls
WanderRussia recommends bringing binoculars or a notebook if you enjoy sketching or journaling in natural settings.
Biking Near Tomsk
Tomsk’s moderate terrain and extensive forest paths make biking a fun and practical way to explore.
Suggested Biking Routes:
- Tomsk to Zorkaltsevo: Approx. 12 km, easy ride to a peaceful village and river access
- University-to-University Route: A city loop that connects campuses with green areas
- Taiga Edge Trails: Unpaved trails through the forest outskirts; ideal for mountain bikes
Bike rentals are available seasonally near the city center or from youth activity clubs.
Tips:
- Bring a repair kit—some routes are far from services
- Carry water and insect spray
- Respect trail etiquette and ride responsibly through shared paths
Canoeing and Kayaking on the Tom River
The Tom River isn’t just beautiful to look at—it’s also perfect for a calm paddle or half-day canoe trip.
What to Expect:
- Entry Points: Popular starts are near Camp Garden, the embankment, or further upstream in villages
- Best Time: May to September
- Wildlife: Ducks, fish, herons, and occasional beaver sightings
Many local clubs offer guided day trips with all equipment provided. The current is generally slow and manageable for beginners.
Recommended Routes:
- Urban Loop: From Camp Garden down to the lower bank and back
- Tomsk to Kaltay: A full-day journey with picnic spots and wild riverbanks
- Early Morning Paddle: Soft light, mist over the water, and total tranquility
WanderRussia suggests this for anyone seeking peaceful physical activity and fresh perspective.
Berry and Mushroom Foraging
A beloved local tradition, foraging is not only allowed—it’s encouraged in Siberian culture.
What to Look For:
- Summer: Raspberries, strawberries, cloudberries
- Autumn: Chanterelles, boletes, milk caps, and lingonberries
Best Foraging Zones:
- Forest edges near Bely Istok
- Woodland paths around the outskirts of Asino
- Trails behind Mikhaylovskaya Grove or along the Tom River
Notes:
- Forage only if you can confidently identify species
- Use local guides or apps if new to mushroom hunting
- Carry a small knife and a basket or cloth bag—not plastic
Many locals forage as part of their weekend tradition, often pairing it with tea and conversation under the trees.
Fishing Trips Near Tomsk
Fishing is a time-honored pastime in the Tomsk region, with plenty of accessible rivers, lakes, and streams.
Common Catch:
- Pike, perch, roach, and carp in rivers
- Trout in stocked ponds and cooler lakes
Where to Fish:
- Tom River (near Krivosheino): Shallow banks and relaxed current
- Small Lakes near Kozhevnikovo: Ideal for quieter experiences
- Pay-to-Fish Ponds: Often include rental equipment and heated huts
Permits may be required for certain locations, so it’s best to check with local fishing clubs or guides.
WanderRussia notes that even if you don’t catch anything, the act of sitting peacefully by the water is its own reward.
Winter Adventures: Snow and Silence
Don’t let the cold keep you inside—winter in Tomsk is active and beautiful.
Activities:
- Cross-Country Skiing: Trails in Birch Grove and Zaimka are groomed in winter
- Snowshoeing: Great way to explore deeper forest trails
- Ice Skating: Outdoor rinks appear in parks, lit at night and accompanied by music
- Sledding Hills: Found in most parks—bring your own or rent at the site
Dress properly, keep warm drinks in a thermos, and embrace the clear air and silence only Siberia can offer.
Horseback Riding Near Tomsk
For a unique experience, explore the fields and forests on horseback.
Where to Ride:
- Stables near Zorkaltsevo and Timiryazevskoye: Offer lessons and trail rides
- Country Estates (Usadbas): Often provide weekend packages including meals, sauna, and riding
Guides speak basic English and are used to beginners. Helmets and safety gear usually provided.
Horseback riding in Siberia’s rural landscape is an unforgettable way to slow down and see nature from a different perspective.
Overnight Camping and Eco-Lodges
For those who want to extend their outdoor adventures overnight:
Camping Options:
- Wild Camping: Allowed in most forest areas—respect fire rules and leave no trace
- Organized Campgrounds: Available near Tomsk lakes and hiking routes
- TSU Biological Station: Offers rustic lodging in a natural setting (limited availability)
Eco-Lodges:
- Wooden Guesthouses in Kozhevnikovo or Yagodnoye: Offer basic comfort with forest access
- Permaculture Farms: Stay with families running sustainable projects
WanderRussia suggests a weekend away as the perfect break after a few days in the city.
Tips for Outdoor Exploration Near Tomsk
- Check Weather: Siberia’s conditions can change fast—prepare for sun, rain, or sudden cold.
- Tell Someone: If hiking or camping alone, inform your hotel or a local contact.
- Pack Properly: Bring a map, water, snacks, flashlight, first-aid kit, and backup phone power.
- Travel Lightly: Avoid overplanning—part of the magic is in the freedom to adapt.
- Respect Nature: Leave no trash, avoid loud music, and appreciate Siberia’s fragile ecosystems.
Conclusion: Wild Beauty Within Reach
Tomsk is not just a destination for thinkers and historians—it’s also a place for explorers, wanderers, and outdoor dreamers. From silent snowscapes to sun-drenched paddling routes, every forest path and river bend near the city invites you to pause, play, and feel part of something bigger.
With Wander Russia as your companion, these outdoor adventures become more than activities. They become soulful encounters with the land itself—unforgettable moments where the stillness of the forest, the curve of a river, or the crunch of snow underfoot speaks directly to your sense of wonder.
