The Mamison Pass is the highest road crossing in the Ossetian mountains, and at 2,829 metres it is one of the great pass roads of the Caucasus. It runs from the upper valley of the Ardon River, in North Ossetia, over the Main Caucasus Range to the Rioni headwaters in Georgia, and for centuries it was used by shepherds and traders who carried salt, wool and iron between the northern and southern slopes. The approach on the Russian side passes through the Mamisonskoye valley, a long, narrow trough of steep slopes, meadows and rock, with the white wall of the main range ahead, and the air at the top is thin and cold.
The pass is also a border. The region is a sensitive one, with a military presence, and checkpoints are common, so be patient and polite. The mineral springs near the head of the valley, known for their healing properties, are also a feature of the area, and there is a small resort with bath houses.
The road itself is a mix of good and bad. Lower down, it is a decent mountain highway, with wide bends and strong views, but higher up, the surface deteriorates, with potholes, gravel and washouts. Landslides and rockfalls can occur at any time, especially after rain, and the road can be closed by snow from October to May. In the high section, fog and cloud can fill the valley in minutes, and thunderstorms in the afternoon are common, so start early. The wild flowers of July are magnificent, and the high meadows are alive with sheep and cattle.
There are no services near the top, so fill up in Mizur or in a larger town on the plain, and carry water, food and warm clothing. The nearest large town is Alagir, a considerable distance away, and the villages in the valley have basic shops.
At the top, the wind is usually strong. Look south over the rim, and see the mountains of Georgia rolling away.