IleAlatau

Ile-Alatau is a mountain system in southeastern Kazakhstan, forming part of the Zailiysky Alatau range near the northern edge of the Tian Shan. It lies to the south of Almaty and runs roughly east–west along the northern foothills of the Tian Shan. The range reaches elevations above 3,000 meters, with several summits visible from the city and surrounding valleys. Glaciation in the highlands has left cirques and moraines that contribute to the landscape’s dramatic scenery.

Geology and climate: The mountains are composed mainly of sedimentary rocks with granitoid intrusions, reflecting a complex tectonic history from the Paleozoic to the Mesozoic era. The climate is continental, with cold winters and warm summers; high elevations receive substantial snowfall that lingers into late spring.

Ecology and conservation: The lower slopes feature coniferous and mixed forests, giving way to alpine meadows and tundra above the timberline. The Ile-Alatau National Park protects large portions of the range, preserving watershed integrity, biodiversity, and scenic landscapes. Native fauna includes ibex, red deer, marmots, and various birds of prey; the area is important for migratory species as well.

Human use: The range is a popular recreation area for residents of Almaty, offering hiking, mountaineering, and winter sports. The Medeu skating complex and the Shymbulak ski resort lie on the range’s foothills, and nearby Big Almaty Lake is a well-known destination. Conservation efforts aim to balance tourism with habitat protection and water-resource management.