Tsakatskarish Lake

Tsakatskarish Lake, known in Georgian as წაქაწყარიშ ტობა (Tsakatskarish Toba), is a picturesque high-altitude glacial lake situated within the rugged Egrisi Mountain Range in the Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region of Georgia. Located in close proximity to the more famous Tobavarchkhili Lake, Tsakatskarish is one of several stunning alpine lakes that form a key attraction for trekkers exploring this part of the Caucasus mountains. Sitting at an elevation typically exceeding 2500 meters (specifically cited as 2580m), the lake is fed primarily by snowmelt and precipitation, resulting in clear, cold, freshwater characteristic of oligotrophic (nutrient-poor) conditions. Its basin was carved out by glacial activity during past ice ages. Due to its remote location and the challenging terrain required to reach it (often lacking a defined path), Tsakatskarish Lake remains relatively pristine, accessible mainly during the summer hiking season (typically July-September). While not possessing major independent historical significance, its value lies in its contribution to the breathtaking natural scenery of the Tobavarchkhili lake system and its role as a destination for wilderness trekking and nature appreciation. Like its neighbours, it represents a fragile high-altitude ecosystem vulnerable to climate change impacts and requiring responsible visitor practices.

Identification and Location

• Name of the Lake: Tsakatskarish Lake (წაქაწყარიშ ტობა).
• Location:
  • Country: Georgia
  • Region: Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti
  • Municipality: Chkhorotsku (often accessed via routes starting here)
  • Mountain Range: Egrisi Range (also known as Samegrelo Range or Odishi Range).
  • Nearest Major City or Landmark: Remote. The nearest significant towns are Mestia and Zugdidi, but access involves long journeys into the mountains, often starting from villages like Mukhuri. It is located very near Tobavarchkhili Lake and Kalalish Lake.
  • Coordinates: Approximate coordinates are around 42°43′ N latitude, 42°18′ E longitude. (Based on proximity to nearby cited points like 42.790412 N, 42.263128 E).
  • Relationship to other bodies of water: It is part of the Tobavarchkhili lake group, situated close to Tobavarchkhili Lake, Didgalish Lake, Okhoje/Tsashkibuli Lake, and Kalalish Lake. It likely drains via small streams that contribute to the headwaters of rivers originating in the Egrisi Range, such as the Khobistskali River. Some sources mention a glacier descending into it from the side.

Physical Characteristics

• Surface Area: Considered one of the smaller lakes within the immediate Tobavarchkhili group. Specific, reliable figures for surface area are not commonly published.
• Maximum Depth: Generally understood to be relatively shallow. Specific depth measurements are not widely available.
• Average Depth: Unknown.
• Volume: Unknown, but presumed to be small.
• Elevation: High altitude, specifically cited as $2580$ meters ($8465$ feet) above sea level.
• Shoreline Length: Relatively short, corresponding to its small size. Specific figure unknown.
• Water Source(s): Primarily snowmelt, seasonal precipitation (rain, snow), meltwater from a nearby glacier mentioned in some sources, and possibly alpine springs or groundwater seepage.
• Outlet(s) (if any): Likely possesses a small outflow stream, particularly during periods of high meltwater.
• Water Type: Freshwater.
• Basin Geology: Glacial origin; a tarn formed within a cirque carved by past glaciation in the volcanic and sedimentary rocks of the Egrisi Range.

Ecological Information

• Flora (Plant Life): The immediate shoreline features alpine and subalpine meadows characterized by grasses, hardy wildflowers, and potentially low-growing rhododendrons. Aquatic plant life within the lake is expected to be very sparse.
• Fauna (Animal Life): Aquatic life is minimal. Fish are highly unlikely. Cold-adapted aquatic invertebrates might exist. The surrounding high-mountain habitat may support fauna such as Caucasian chamois, Caucasian tur, various birds of prey, and smaller mammals.
• Trophic Level: Oligotrophic (nutrient-poor).
• Water Clarity: Typically high, often noted for its beautiful color.
• Water Temperature (seasonal variations if applicable): Cold throughout the year. Freezes over completely during winter, with ice lasting late into spring/early summer.
• pH Levels: Specific measurements are generally unavailable, likely near neutral to slightly acidic.
• Dissolved Oxygen Levels: Expected to be high.
• Unique Ecological Features: Fragile high-altitude freshwater ecosystem, notable for its color and setting, part of a cluster of pristine alpine lakes.
• Conservation Status: No specific designation commonly cited, but falls within the generally protected natural landscape of the Egrisi mountains. Conservation relies on remoteness and responsible tourism.
• Invasive Species: Extremely unlikely.

Human Interaction and Significance

• Historical Significance: No specific historical events or legends widely associated directly with Tsakatskarish Lake. Part of the natural heritage of the Samegrelo region.
• Current Uses: Primarily a destination/viewpoint for trekkers on the Tobavarchkhili routes, noted for its beauty. Used for recreation (hiking, photography, wilderness camping nearby). Not utilized for significant economic purposes. Access is difficult, often viewed from a distance as there may not be a clear path directly to the shore, making it a target for experienced/professional hikers with proper gear.
• Environmental Issues: Potential pressures from tourism (litter, campsite disturbance, trail erosion), especially given the challenging access which might lead to informal path creation. Long-term threats include climate change impacts.
• Management and Conservation Efforts: Relies on general wilderness protection principles and visitor adherence to “Leave No Trace” ethics. Development plans for the broader Tobavarchkhili area aim to improve infrastructure, which could increase visitor numbers and necessitate more formal management in the future.
• Local Communities: Remote from permanent settlements. Relevant to local communities mainly through potential guiding opportunities related to Tobavarchkhili tourism.

Interesting or Unique Facts

• Often highlighted for its beautiful, sometimes described as “strange” or unique, coloration and stunning location.
• A glacier is mentioned as descending into the lake from the side, contributing to its water source and scenic value.
• Access is notably difficult, often requiring hikers to view it from a nearby pass rather than reaching the shore directly, marking it as a destination for more serious trekkers.
• Visiting Tsakatskarish is usually part of a larger 5-6 day trek that encompasses the main Tobavarchkhili lakes.