Yagodninsky District: Lakes, Peaks and Nature

Lake Jack London is a group of oligotrophic mountain lakes of glacial origin in the upper Kolyma Basin. They lie on the northeastern slopes of the Bolshoy Annachag Range in Yagodninsky District, Magadan Oblast. The name therefore refers not just to a single body of water, but to a lake area in a clearly defined mountain landscape. “Oligotrophic” describes nutrient-poor waters; glacial origin refers to their formation by glaciers. This places the area in context both geologically and by its location in the basin and on the mountain range.

The lakes are home to several rare and endemic forms of plant and animal life. For nature enthusiasts, the plant and animal life is therefore among the lake area's special features, alongside its landscape. The terms “rare” and “endemic” offer different kinds of information: rarity describes how commonly a life form occurs, while endemism describes its restriction to a limited area. The natural features of the Lake Jack London area are thus accompanied by a remarkable diversity of plants and animals.

Location in Magadan Oblast

Within the wider destination of Magadan Oblast, the area around the lake has been part of Chersky National Park since December 2022. The protected-area cluster around the lake includes the Bolshoy Annachag and Malyy Annachag mountain ranges, as well as Lakes Elgenya and Lebedinoye. Vosmiozyorny Creek and the Elgenya River are also included. These names describe the wider regional context of the protected area; they should not be confused with the location of the lakes in the Lake Jack London area in Yagodninsky District.

The Kolyma Highway is also a regional reference point for navigating Magadan Oblast. Officially designated R-504 “Kolyma,” it connects the region with Yakutia and the rest of mainland Russia and passes through Susumansky, Yagodninsky, and Khasynsky districts. This identifies the highway as a long-distance connection, while the lakes, Pik Chellendzher, and the “Spyashchiy rytsar” trail define the distinctive nature and mountain themes of Yagodninsky District.

Mountain history and trails

Pik Chellendzher was formerly called “Chertov Palets.” It was considered one of the most difficult peaks to reach in Yagodninsky District. More than 30 years ago, seven residents of the Kolyma region became the first to climb the mountain. Its name, former reputation, and first ascent each offer a different perspective on its history: the name reflects an earlier designation, the description its reputation at the time, and the ascent a specific achievement by local residents.

Another trail in the region, which leads to the mountain of the same name, is “Spyashchiy rytsar.” In July 2025, sections were cleared, trail markers were added and repaired, and rubbish was collected. If you plan to hike this trail, check the current trail conditions in advance.

Fishing and other activities

At the Lake of Dancing Grayling, fishing is considered especially successful at sunrise or dusk. This points to the early and late hours of the day; conditions and catches may vary.

A trip by Mi-8 helicopter takes you to Lake Jack London. Check the latest operational details before making plans.

The area's landscape and historical themes are distinct: Lake Jack London is known for glacially formed waters and rare habitats, while Pik Chellendzher is associated with its former name and mountain history.

Discover more destinations: Magadan.

View the wider travel guide: Magadan Oblast.