Best Places For Hiking In Armenia

Armenia, a country rich in culture and history, is also a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With its diverse terrain, breathtaking landscapes, and historical landmarks, Armenia offers some of the best hiking trails in the world. Here are some of the top hiking destinations in Armenia that every adventurer should explore. 

Mount Aragats

Mount Aragats as seen by me while hiking along Aparan Reservoir Loop Trail

Rising proudly amidst the rugged landscapes of Armenia, Mount Aragats with its 4 summits stands as a majestic symbol of natural beauty and cultural significance. With its snow-capped peaks, lush meadows, and ancient volcanic formations, this mighty mountain offers a captivating experience for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. The 4 summits of Aragats are named according to their relative geographic position:

Northern—4,090 m (13,420 ft) Highest in Armenia

Western—3,995 m (13,107 ft)

Eastern—3,908 m (12,822 ft)

Southern—3,888 m (12,756 ft)

All four summits are accessible for hikers and do not require technical skills. Among them, the Southern Summit is particularly popular due to its easy accessibility.

More about mount Aragats you can learn by reading this article!

Mount Azhdahak

The view from the summit of mount Azhdahak

Located in the Geghama Mountain Range, Mount Azhdahak with its crater lake offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking awe-inspiring landscapes and an immersion in Armenia's rich history. Standing proudly at an elevation of 3,597 meters (11,801 feet) this “Red Giant” attracts every hiker who learns about it! On a clear day, from the top you can see Lake Sevan in the distance, nearby Lake Akna and Vishapalich (Dragon Lake) while the rugged peaks of neighboring mountains, be it Red Ridge or Spitakasar, create a dramatic backdrop.

More about mount Azhdahak you can learn by reading this article!

Mount Dimats

Mount Dimats and its horses

Thanks to its charming cliffs, Shaghot waterfall (46 meters high) and photogenic views, mount Dimats (2360 m) has become a popular hiking destination among tourists in Armenia! This is a peak in the Tavush Region of Armenia, in the southwestern part of Ijevan Mountains, 5 km northwest of Haghartsin village! More about mount Dimats you can learn by reading this article!

Aparan Reservoir Loop Trail

Aparan Reservoir in the beginning of June

Discover the Aparan Reservoir Loop Trail, just 45 km from Yerevan, perfect for hiking in all seasons. The reservoir was built in 1962-1967, covering an area of 7.9 square kilometers. For the construction, two villages, Kasakh and Zovuni, were relocated to the vicinity of Yerevan. Built in the 4th century, St. Poghos-Petros basilica partially goes underwater for 3-4 months a year, marking the end of the trail. Even bicycle riders love to visit this place, as there is a road (not asphalt) leading there. On foot, of course, you can explore more, gain altitude, and see the reservoir from a charming angle!

More about Aparan Reservoir you can learn in here.

From Lake Parz to Goshavank Monastery

Lake Parz in Dilijan National Park

From Lake Parz the trail winds its way through dense forests, providing a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. As you continue your hike, you'll encounter a diverse array of flora and fauna, including vibrant wildflowers and various bird species. Even on hot summer days, the trail remains pleasantly cool, offering fresh, oxygen-rich air that prevents fatigue from setting in. The trail concludes in Gosh village, near the 12th-13th century Armenian Monastery of Goshavank.

More about Lake Parz – Goshavank Monastery trail you can learn by reading this article!

Smbataberd Fortress

Smbataberd fortress is one of the best preserved Armenian fortresses

Smbataberd (fortress of Smbat) is one of the most popular hiking trails in Armenia! Except for hot July and August other months are “hiking friendly”. From Eghegis village, the trail will take you to the medieval Smbataberd (Fortress of Smbat). Then you can proceed towards the monastic complex Tsaghats Kar, which is approximately a 2-hour hike from Smbataberd. The trail ends near Zorats church...

More about Smbataberd – Tsaghats Kar – Zorats Church trail you can learn by reading this article!

Matosavank - Jukhtak Loop

Aerial photo of Matosavank

Matosavank - Jukhtak Loop, situated in Dilijan National Park, Tavush, is an easy 4.5 km trail. The path takes you to the 13th-century Jukhtak Monastery and then proceeds to Matosavank, another 13th-century monastery. The trail winds through dense forests, offering fresh air and a quick nature walk for those seeking a relaxing stroll.

Odzun-Hormayr-Kobayr trail

Aerial photo of Kobayr Monastery

The Odzun-Horomayr-Kobayr trail, tracing the Debed canyon, stands out as one of the most beautiful hiking routes in Armenia. Begin your journey by visiting the stunning Odzun church. From there, descend towards the 12th-century Horomayr Monastery and continue towards another 12th-century monastery, Kobayr. This marks the conclusion of your trail.

Mount Yeranos Trail

View from the summit of mount Yeranos

Mount Yeranos (1823m) is  a peak near the northern edge of Ararat Region, Armenia, in the western half of the Yeranos mountain range, 8 km northeast of Lanjazat village. From the summit a breathtaking view opens up towards Azat reservoir! The trail is linear and stretches 18 km.

Old Khot-Shinuhayr trail

Me exploring Old Khot village

Hiking along the Vorotan Gorge is another exciting trail I strongly recommend exploring in Armenia. Start your hike from Khot village, where the map of the trail stands, and descend to the old Khot village. This is an abandoned village often referred to as the Armenian Machu Picchu due to its resemblance to the Inca citadel located in the Eastern Cordillera of southern Peru. After exploring this ghost village, head towards Shinuhayr village, exploring more abandoned buildings along the way. For more about Old Khot check out this article!