Photos and video of the Kosiv Huk waterfall

Brief overview

Detailed description of the waterfall Kosiv Huk

The Kosiv Huk waterfall is formed by the rapid flow of the mountain river Rybnytsia as a result of the erosion of shale and sandy rocks. The Rybnytsia River itself (54 km long) begins with two streams that emerge from the slopes of Igrets and Pysanyi Kamen, at an altitude of about 800 metres above sea level.

The Kosiv Huk waterfall cascade is conventionally divided into two parts – “huk” and “shum”. The locals call the waterfalls themselves “huk”, while “shuk” is the part of the river into which the waterfall itself falls, which looks like a boiling cauldron with white foam on the surface, which, like the rapids of the river itself, is also called shuk.

As a result of the floods of 2008-2010, the Kosiv Huk waterfall became lower in height. These devastating changes were caused by numerous boulders that were carried away by the rapid flow of the flood.

Kosiv Huk is under state protection. It is a geological monument of local importance, and since 2010 it has become an integral part of the Hutsulshchyna Regional Landscape Park.

The popularity of Kosiv Huk waterfall among tourists dates back to the 1930s. At that time, there was even a dance hall with an orchestra and a changing room located under it, a pavilion with a buffet and a kayak station near the waterfall. Locals and tourists alike enjoyed kayaking to the wonderful music of the orchestra. Unfortunately, almost all of this infrastructure has not survived to this day. The only monument of those times that has come down to us is a beautiful chapel located among the right bank of the Rybnytsia River. It is located in a picturesque place that the famous Ukrainian writer Ivan Franko used to choose for his holidays.

Since 1991, after Ukraine gained its independence, Kosiv Huk has been growing in popularity among tourists. Thousands of tourists and locals visit it every year.

There is even a sports ground next to the waterfall that was built by local residents. The locals jokingly call it “the most romantic rocking chair in Ukraine”. After the floods of 2008-2010, the destroyed playground was restored thanks to local activists led by taxi driver Vasyl Krytskalyuk. Tourists like to take great photo shoots and work out on the open-air exercise equipment at this site. There are comfortable benches and a flower bed nearby. After a workout, a great way to relax in the summer is a hydromassage in the flow of the waterfall itself. This natural massage is a great way to rejuvenate and recuperate.

Around the Kosiv Huk waterfall, there are picturesque rocks up to 15 metres high, which are striking in their beauty. Photos against the backdrop of the waterfall and rocks are simply incredible and become the decoration of any family photo album.

How do I get to the Kosiv Huk and the observation deck Nad Hukom?

The Kosiv Huk waterfall can be found just a few hundred metres from the road heading towards Kosmach or Sheshory, or to Verkhovyna or Kryvorivnia. To get to the waterfall from Druzhba Street, at the crossroads you should make a right turn to Ivan Franko Street, from where it is only about 100 metres to the Kosiv Huk waterfall.

In 2019, a wonderful observation deck was opened not far from the waterfall. The locals call it “Nad Hukom”. It is located on Ivan Franko Street next to the Kosiv-Verkhovyna road at the bend near the Vodohrai restaurant. This place has already become very popular among tourists and locals who like to relax and take photo shoots here. It offers an incredible view of the swift flow of the Rybnytsia River and the surrounding forest landscapes.

 Walking route

On the map

What’s interesting nearby?

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Tours and excursions