Hiking in Armenia
Including Dilijan National Park, Geghama Mountains (Azhdahak), and Mount Aragats. On the map.
The vibe
The highland trails weave through basalt cliffs and ancient monasteries, giving a sense of stepping back into history. The best time is late spring to early autumn when snow has melted but the weather is still mild. Most routes are quiet, though popular paths attract a steady stream of trekkers.
park permit
Dilijan National Park
Tavush Province
vahemart / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Known as the 'Armenian Switzerland,' this lush region offers dense forests and rolling mountain trails. Hikers can explore well-marked paths leading to medieval monasteries like Haghartsin and Goshavank nestled within the woodland.
Access. Located about 1.5 hours from Yerevan, the park is easily accessible by taxi or marshrutka to Dilijan town, which serves as the primary base for trailheads.
Notes. Best visited from late spring to early autumn; trails can be muddy after rain.
Geghama Mountains (Azhdahak)
Kotayk
Łukasz Bujonek / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
This volcanic range features a stunning trek to the summit of Mount Azhdahak, where a crater lake sits at the top. The landscape is characterized by vast, treeless volcanic plateaus and ancient petroglyphs.
Access. Requires a 4x4 vehicle to reach the high-altitude trailheads from Garni or Geghard; guided tours are highly recommended for navigation.
Notes. Remote area with no facilities; requires self-sufficiency and navigation skills.
Mount Aragats
Shirak Province
AgnesKarikaturen / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
As the highest peak in Armenia, this extinct volcano offers a challenging high-altitude trek to its four distinct summits. The crater area provides a dramatic alpine landscape with snowfields that often persist into summer.
Access. The trailhead is typically reached via a 1-hour drive from Yerevan to the Kari Lake visitor center at 3,200 meters.
Notes. High altitude requires acclimatization; weather changes rapidly, and snow can block paths even in July.
Vorotan Canyon and Tatev Trails
Syunik Province
GoharT / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
This dramatic canyon system offers steep, rewarding trails that descend from the Tatev Monastery to the river floor. The scenery includes deep gorges, medieval bridges, and lush valley vegetation.
Access. Accessible via the Wings of Tatev cable car or by road from Goris; trailheads start near the monastery complex.
Notes. The descent is steep; ensure you have enough daylight for the return climb or arrange transport from the bottom.