Since interest in the places we visit changes every year in Armenia, we have chosen hiking destinations that have become the most in-demand and favorite places in a very short time. These top 5 hiking destinations in Armenia have surely been on our list of regular hikes, but interest was significant this year, and we decided to make them recognizable to those who want to discover something new and add them to their hiking list.
You can find out why these destinations have become the most popular ones from the participants of our expeditions, who shared with us their sincerest impressions and feelings.
Mount Dimats. Shaghot Waterfall
Mount Dimats (2378 m) is one of the beautiful mountains of the Ijevan range. The peak may not be particularly impressive for its uniqueness, but the view from the top of the rocky wall of the Ijevan range and the Aghstev Gorge will make you forget about the difficulties of the long trail and enjoy the view in all its glory.
Mount Dimats has become a favorite and well-known to many because of the uniqueness of the “Frfr Rock”. In fact, this rock has no official name. The name is found in the novel “Call of Plowmen”, and it was intended to revive the old and give new life to this name. The destination also includes Shaghot Waterfall, located in a recess of the rocky walls of Ijevan Mountains.
People share their impressions:
“Despite the fact that I was afraid of the hiking difficulties, I’m happy that it didn’t stop me“.
“I think that Mount Dimats has become one of the most popular destinations because of the beautiful pictures shared on the Internet, which just makes you want to be there.
“I was particularly impressed with the view, the mountains, the vast green, the colors.”
“Every hiking trail is unique. The trail leading to Mount Dimats is interesting because it follows both a forest trail and an open space”.
Lakes of Aragats: Rapi, Mtnalich, Astghkan
These three lakes are among the high-altitude lakes of Aragats. Their close proximity to each other makes it possible to include them in one hiking destination. The lakes are located at an altitude of more than 3000 meters above sea level. You can enjoy a wonderful view of the northern wall of Aragats from the lakes and the beauty of Aragats in the reflection.
People share their impressions:
“Very impressed by Mtnalich. The unique blue-green color of the water, the uneven arrangement of stones around, the reflection of the northern wall of Aragats, the never-ending moves of clouds and fog make the space of the lake very peculiar”.
“I think that most people cannot climb mountains of great difficulty, some just adore mountain lakes and come to enjoy swimming in mountain lakes. Perhaps that’s why this destination is a combination of enjoying the views from the heights, swimming in the lakes and, of course, hiking from one lake to another accompanied by the northern wall of Aragats”.
“Many people feel comfortable, the “agony” of the trail is quite minimal.
“I don’t know why, but I was euphoric on the shores of Mtnalich. The world seemed perfect, or more likely was perfect”.
Mantash Waterfall
Mantash Waterfall is located on the northwest slope of Mount Aragats. Of course, it is not very high, but the path that leads to the waterfall through alpine meadows makes the hike even more spectacular and interesting, which is what makes this place so special.
People share their impressions:
“In my opinion, Mantash Waterfall is very different from other waterfalls in Armenia. Its green hue gives it an unusual appearance. The stone at the top of the Waterfall also has a sharp cut. The rectangular-shaped stone, green grass, and waterfall create a peaceful composition. I compare this view to photos I’ve seen of Aztec settlements (I may be wrong, but that’s my opinion). In short, the Waterfall has an extraordinary view”.
“It’s a refreshing hike, as the hike starts and ends near Lake Kari, and you rest right by the waterfall during the hike”.
“I think this has become one of the most in-demand destinations, as it’s a not-so-difficult route with a fantastic view”.
Mount Mets Parakhadem
Mount Mets Parakhadem is one of the highest peaks of the Urts mountain range. Its height is 1955 meters. From the top there is a wonderful view of the mountains Urts, Big and Small Ararat. The Urts mountain range is located between the Shagap and Aratso rivers, a tributary of the Vedi, in the south of Ararat province. The landscape is semi-desert in the foothills and mountain-steppe in the highlands.
People share their impressions:
“The view of Ararat from the top was spectacular”.
“The colors were mesmerizing and unusual”.
“As I’ve started to hike more frequently than I used to, I realize that this time it was easier for me. Beautiful pictures, good mood to feel the clouds under my feet. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the view of Ararat. I think these are some of the reasons why the destination has become one of the most popular.”
Tsakkar Lake
This destination is one of the least visited places, but because of its unique alpine landscape does not leave anyone indifferent. Lake Tsakkar is one of the high mountain lakes of the Zangezur range. It is located at an altitude of 3272 m. Its area is 3 hectares, also called Sagkar or Tsaghkari.
People share their impressions:
“It was special to me as it borders Nakhichevan, and the color of the lake differs from other lakes”.
“On either side are the wonderful mountains of Zangezur and Lake Tsakkar with pure turquoise-colored water, and on top are impregnable cliffs”.
“There were too many spectacular sights in two days, I still can’t believe my eyes. This hike was definitely different as it included four different and marvelous waterfalls in Lichk, about 100 meters apart, and Lake Tsakkar. Also a big plus was that the weather made it possible to swim more and enjoy the beautiful moments. Usually the weather in the mountains is cold, not suitable for swimming, the only thing you can do is to enjoy only by looking at the lake from afar”.
“I think hiking preferences and camping experiences are very individual, but this is one of those destinations where there is a lot to see, everyone is sure to find something to their liking. I will definitely persuade all my friends to come here”.
Impressions were shared by Artur Zarbabyan, Harutyun Umrshatyan,Gayane Grigoryan, Hasmik Stepanyan, Lili Khachatryan, Nelly Kesoyan, Diana Tonoyan, Meri Muradyan.
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