Over 20 kilometers along forest roads and village streets — this is the route leading from the village of Strumok in the Ushomyr hromada to Horshchyk in the Korosten district of Zhytomyr Oblast. The road runs through pine and birch forests typical of Zhytomyr Polissia, offering a glimpse into sparsely populated corners of this region.
This is a long hiking route for those who enjoy forest walks, tranquil natural landscapes, and photography. It can appeal both to summer hiking enthusiasts and to those who set out on winter treks.
Author: Jbuket - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0
What to See Near the Route
On the outskirts of Strumok, near the start of the route, lies Lovers' Rock — a granite formation above the Uzh River. From its top, there is a scenic view of the Polissia nature and the river valley. In spring, this section of the Uzh attracts kayaking enthusiasts: near the rock, there is a rapid with a fairly swift current. This place is worth visiting before starting the hike or planning as a separate stop.
Another natural attraction in the area is the "Myslovychi" local hydrological reserve. It covers an area of 52 hectares. The reserve was established in 1982 to protect wetland ecosystems. If you plan to visit it, you should check the distance from the main track in advance and ensure access to the area is possible.
The main part of the path runs through Polissia forests. In summer, such places attract blueberry pickers, and in autumn — mushroom hunters. In spring and summer, the woodlands are lush green, changing colors in autumn, while in winter, pines and birches, snow-covered roads, and quiet create a completely different atmosphere. This is a great opportunity for a photo walk if weather conditions allow for a long hike.
Difficulty and Preparation
The route is over 20 kilometers long. It is mostly flat, without significant climbs, but requires endurance due to the long distance. You should allow approximately 5–6 hours to complete it without long stops.
Since a significant part of the trail passes through the forest, you need to take care of water and food in advance. Before setting off, download a GPS track and an offline map, check your phone's battery level, and bring a power bank. In the warm season, don't forget tick repellent.
How to Get There
The route starts in the village of Strumok in the Ushomyr hromada and ends in Horshchyk — the center of the Horshchyk hromada. This is a linear trek, so returning to the starting point needs to be planned in advance.
Horshchyk is located approximately 23 kilometers from Korosten. The village has the Omelianivka railway station on the Korosten — Zviahel line. Before your trip, it is worth checking the current schedule of suburban trains and buses.
Author: Visem - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0