The headwaters of the Katun River originate on Mount Belukha, the highest mountain in Siberia at 4,506 metres (14,783 ft), which is located on the far eastern edge of the preserve.

Katun is an internationally important center of biodiversity, forming part of the "Golden Mountains of Altai" UNESCO World Heritage Site.

[1] Katun is located in the Altai alpine meadow and tundra ecoregion (WWF ID #PA1001).

There are "ecotourist" routes in the reserve, however, that are open to the public, but require permits to be obtained in advance.

Reserve rangers lead ecotourist hikes to Upper Lake Multinskiye, with groups assembling at 11:00 daily in season (July–September).