GEOCONCEPT OF A TOURIST TRAIL AT THE GUBAKHA SKI RESORT

Abstract

Developed trails are an essential element of modern tourist infrastructure; however, it is a rare case when the planning of such trails is geographically justified in a comprehensive manner. This article substantiates the need to form a "geoconcept" of a tourist trail, in which geomorphological, landscape, and aesthetic factors play a key role. Using the case of the Gubakha Ski Resort (Perm Krai), which is developing into an all-season resort, a pedestrian trail project is proposed to expand its summer recreational offerings. The methodological framework of the study includes field landscape studies, spatial structure analysis, potential user surveys, and cartographic modeling based on satellite imagery. It has been revealed that the overall natural attractiveness of the Gubakha area is determined by its unique topography (the Rudyansky Spoy ridge, Mount Krestovaya, and Ladeinyi Log ravine) making the geomorphological framework the basis for trail routing. The proposed concept includes two main route options (a loop trail along the rocky ridge of 5.4 km and an extended trail of up to 11 km leading to a karst sinkhole and caves). For a clear representation of the idea, the trail geoconcept is presented as an artistic map, creating a holistic image of the route, while the planned elements of trail improvement are shown in detail on a large-scale map based on satellite imagery. The survey results confirmed a high recreational potential of the territory. The findings can be used in planning trail networks in other mining and industrial areas of the Urals.