The Bystrinsky Nature Park comprises some of the most dramatic mountains, high tundra, and birch forests on Kamchatka. Anavgai and Esso villages are within park boundaries and preservation of traditions of these aboriginal people is a primary goal of the park. The park is the homeland of big horn snow sheep, moose, sable, bear, beaver, mink, fox, wolves, reindeer, and many species of birds. The region's conifer forests are not found in other parts of Kamchatka and the massive Ichinsky Volcano is the highest active volcano in the Sredniy mountain range.
One may drive 8-10 hours from Petropav-lovsk-Kamchatsky on the only road north and reach the boundaries of the Bystrinsky Nature Park several miles from Anavgai. As both the largest (1,333,478 hectares) and one of the least developed of Kamchatka's Nature Parks, Bystrinsky offers recreationists a huge and unspoiled territory. The region is homeland for the Even reindeer herding people.
The park has trails used for decades by regional hunters and reindeer herders. Even people use the sturdy northern Yakuti-type horses for travel into the wilderness. Through the park flow some of the wildest and most scenic rivers on Kamchatka and the Esso Bystraya River is a favorite for white water rafters. In Esso there are several tour compa¬nies that run 1 to 3-day rafting trips on the Bystraya.
Another great way to see the Park is on horseback and both day trips and overnight trail rides are available. Esso has several horse trip outfitters.
Hiking in the park is a good way to see the Bystrinsky's unique pocket of conifer forest. Check at the park headquarters in Esso about trails and guide services. There are some wilderness cabins that may be used with prior arrangement.
Thanks to the efforts of Native leaders from Anavgai and Esso, there are several wonderful cultural festivals each year and everyone is welcome to join in the merrymaking. Each early March the Beringia Sled Dog Race from Esso to Palana, the capital of the Koryak District has a ceremonial and heartwarming start for one of the toughest dog races in the world. The summer solstice is the Even New Years celebration and autumn brings the harvest festivities usually in early September.