Ara mountain I Classic Steep trail I Aragatsotn I Armenia
Fotos de la ruta
Autor
Estadísticas de la ruta
- Distancia
- 12,15 km
- Desnivel positivo
- 1.086 m
- Dificultade técnica
- Difícil
- Desnivel negativo
- 1.086 m
- Altitud máxima
- 2.615 m
- TrailRank
-
59
4,6
- Altitud mínima
- 1.705 m
- Trail type
- Circular
- Tiempo en movimiento
- 4 horas 57 minutos
- Tempo
- 8 horas 48 minutos
- Coordenadas
- 2181
- Fecha de subida
- 5 de noviembre de 2023
- Fecha de realización
- noviembre 2023
preto de Vardenis, Aragatsotn (አርሜኒያ)
Vista 1046 veces, descargada 49 veces
Fotos de la ruta
Descripción del itinerario
𝐀𝐫𝐚 𝐌𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧 ( also known as 𝐀𝐫𝐚𝐲𝐢 𝐌𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧 , Արա լեռ , Արայի լեռ ) stands at a height of 2,605 meters and is one of the most popular mountains to hike in Armenia.
This well-known peak is favored by Armenians for its diverse landscape and stunning views of both Mount Aragats and Mount Ararat. Its proximity to Yerevan makes it an easily accessible destination located between the Kotayk and Aragatsotn regions.
▶ Distance from Yerevan to the trailhead:
33 km 45 min
▶ Recommended for:
Hikers seeking a steep and challenging mountain ascent with stunning views, all within close proximity to Yerevan, and who are comfortable with non-comfortable, rugged terrain.
◤Description of the trail
This is a well-known but challenging trail to Ara Mountain. While it’s a popular traditional route, be sure to read through this information before you plan your hike.
--- We parked our car near a small café, where the asphalt road ends, and began our loop hike from there.
--- For directions on how to get to that point by car follow this link below: ↴
https://www.wikiloc.com/car-trails/tsaghkevank-monastery-yerevan-ara-mountain-road-way-armenia-152415165
--- The first part of the trail involves hiking uphill until you reach the range at 2500 meters. From there, you follow jeep tracks along the ridge before descending into a steep gorge that leads to Tsaghkevank.
--- The ascent to the range is steep but not overly challenging. Once you reach 2500 meters, you'll enjoy the most pleasant part of the hike, a leisurely stroll along the ridge. At the junction, you’ll have a clear view of both the false and true peaks of the range.
First, we headed right toward the false peak (marked by the triangular metal structure at 2577 meters), then returned to the junction and took the left path toward the true summit at 2605 meters.
--- The most challenging part of the hike is the descent, especially the first half, which is extremely steep. Never attempt this route to Ara during wet or snowy conditions, as it can be very dangerous. I would not recommend this descent for those who care for their knees and prefer more comfortable hikes.
--- If you want to hike Ara mountain from the North side, follow this link for more information: ↴
https://www.wikiloc.com/hiking-trails/ara-mountain-north-route-armenia-182983533
◤ When to Go?
▶ Doable:
▸ From mid-April to December
▶ Recommended:
▸ May, June – Lush greenery, colorful landscapes, and moderate temperatures
▸ October – Vibrant autumn colors, especially on the northern trails
▸ November – Pleasant temperatures with scenic views of snowy Aragats
▶ Not Recommended:
▸ From December to April – This trail to Ara is suitable for snowy conditions (unless you're looking for an extreme snowy hike/ in this case choose the route from the North side)
▸ During the rainy season – The descent to Tsaghkevank becomes challenging and slippery in wet conditions
◤𝐅𝐀𝐐 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐀𝐫𝐚 𝐦𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧
▶Does Ara Mountain have two summits? Why do so many trails head in different directions?
▷ The highest point of Ara Mountain is 2,605 meters. Typically, the highest points on mountains in Armenia are marked with a triangular metal structure for geodetic calculations. However, on Ara Mountain, this structure is located at 2,577 meters, not at the true highest point. As a result, many locals mistakenly head to this lower point, causing some confusion. In fact, the true summit lies in the opposite direction, marked by the Armenian flag.
▶Is it true that Ara Mountain is home to wildlife, especially bears?
▷ Yes, Ara Mountain is rich in diverse fauna and is part of the Ara Reserve. Hunting is prohibited in the area, which remains quite wild. Due to the presence of wildlife, it is advisable to plan your hike with a group or a prepared guide.
▻Make noise to avoid surprising wildlife, especially when hiking alone or in small groups.
▻Watch your step to avoid stepping on snakes, especially during the warmer months when they are more active.
▶ What is the best point to start hiking Ara Mountain?
▷ There are generally three main directions to hike Ara Mountain: the traditional trail from the South, the trail from the East (starting from Yeghvard town), and the trails from the North through the woods. If you're unsure which one to choose, here's a breakdown of each option:
▸ The traditional "classic" trail from the South, which is the most commonly used by locals, is the closest to Yerevan. It leads to Tsaghkevank cave monastery (Ծաղկեվանք). This is the shortest trail, but it includes a very steep descent. The route through the gorge leading to Tsaghkevank is particularly steep and can be quite uncomfortable to hike.
▸ The trail from the East, starting from Yeghvard town, is long, smooth, and easy, but it doesn't offer much in terms of scenic views.
▸ The trails from the North are long and pass through picturesque woods. This is the longest trail, but also the smoothest, with gradual ups and downs, making it a more leisurely hike through beautiful natural surroundings.
It's the route I personally prefer.
▶Are there any blazed marks on the trails to the mountain?
▷ The trails to Ara Mountain are not blazed. Regardless of the trail you choose, using GPS tools is essential in this area to navigate effectively.
▶ What is the best season to hike Ara Mountain?
▷ The best season depends on the trail you plan to take, as some routes can be dangerous during snowy conditions. Generally, the hiking season lasts from mid-April to December (until the first snow). From December to April, the mountain remains covered in snow.
The most comfortable months for hiking are May and June (when the landscape is lush and the temperatures are moderate), as well as October and November (with pleasant temperatures and golden autumn landscapes).
This well-known peak is favored by Armenians for its diverse landscape and stunning views of both Mount Aragats and Mount Ararat. Its proximity to Yerevan makes it an easily accessible destination located between the Kotayk and Aragatsotn regions.
▶ Distance from Yerevan to the trailhead:
33 km 45 min
▶ Recommended for:
Hikers seeking a steep and challenging mountain ascent with stunning views, all within close proximity to Yerevan, and who are comfortable with non-comfortable, rugged terrain.
◤Description of the trail
This is a well-known but challenging trail to Ara Mountain. While it’s a popular traditional route, be sure to read through this information before you plan your hike.
--- We parked our car near a small café, where the asphalt road ends, and began our loop hike from there.
--- For directions on how to get to that point by car follow this link below: ↴
https://www.wikiloc.com/car-trails/tsaghkevank-monastery-yerevan-ara-mountain-road-way-armenia-152415165
--- The first part of the trail involves hiking uphill until you reach the range at 2500 meters. From there, you follow jeep tracks along the ridge before descending into a steep gorge that leads to Tsaghkevank.
--- The ascent to the range is steep but not overly challenging. Once you reach 2500 meters, you'll enjoy the most pleasant part of the hike, a leisurely stroll along the ridge. At the junction, you’ll have a clear view of both the false and true peaks of the range.
First, we headed right toward the false peak (marked by the triangular metal structure at 2577 meters), then returned to the junction and took the left path toward the true summit at 2605 meters.
--- The most challenging part of the hike is the descent, especially the first half, which is extremely steep. Never attempt this route to Ara during wet or snowy conditions, as it can be very dangerous. I would not recommend this descent for those who care for their knees and prefer more comfortable hikes.
--- If you want to hike Ara mountain from the North side, follow this link for more information: ↴
https://www.wikiloc.com/hiking-trails/ara-mountain-north-route-armenia-182983533
◤ When to Go?
▶ Doable:
▸ From mid-April to December
▶ Recommended:
▸ May, June – Lush greenery, colorful landscapes, and moderate temperatures
▸ October – Vibrant autumn colors, especially on the northern trails
▸ November – Pleasant temperatures with scenic views of snowy Aragats
▶ Not Recommended:
▸ From December to April – This trail to Ara is suitable for snowy conditions (unless you're looking for an extreme snowy hike/ in this case choose the route from the North side)
▸ During the rainy season – The descent to Tsaghkevank becomes challenging and slippery in wet conditions
◤𝐅𝐀𝐐 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐀𝐫𝐚 𝐦𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧
▶Does Ara Mountain have two summits? Why do so many trails head in different directions?
▷ The highest point of Ara Mountain is 2,605 meters. Typically, the highest points on mountains in Armenia are marked with a triangular metal structure for geodetic calculations. However, on Ara Mountain, this structure is located at 2,577 meters, not at the true highest point. As a result, many locals mistakenly head to this lower point, causing some confusion. In fact, the true summit lies in the opposite direction, marked by the Armenian flag.
▶Is it true that Ara Mountain is home to wildlife, especially bears?
▷ Yes, Ara Mountain is rich in diverse fauna and is part of the Ara Reserve. Hunting is prohibited in the area, which remains quite wild. Due to the presence of wildlife, it is advisable to plan your hike with a group or a prepared guide.
▻Make noise to avoid surprising wildlife, especially when hiking alone or in small groups.
▻Watch your step to avoid stepping on snakes, especially during the warmer months when they are more active.
▶ What is the best point to start hiking Ara Mountain?
▷ There are generally three main directions to hike Ara Mountain: the traditional trail from the South, the trail from the East (starting from Yeghvard town), and the trails from the North through the woods. If you're unsure which one to choose, here's a breakdown of each option:
▸ The traditional "classic" trail from the South, which is the most commonly used by locals, is the closest to Yerevan. It leads to Tsaghkevank cave monastery (Ծաղկեվանք). This is the shortest trail, but it includes a very steep descent. The route through the gorge leading to Tsaghkevank is particularly steep and can be quite uncomfortable to hike.
▸ The trail from the East, starting from Yeghvard town, is long, smooth, and easy, but it doesn't offer much in terms of scenic views.
▸ The trails from the North are long and pass through picturesque woods. This is the longest trail, but also the smoothest, with gradual ups and downs, making it a more leisurely hike through beautiful natural surroundings.
It's the route I personally prefer.
▶Are there any blazed marks on the trails to the mountain?
▷ The trails to Ara Mountain are not blazed. Regardless of the trail you choose, using GPS tools is essential in this area to navigate effectively.
▶ What is the best season to hike Ara Mountain?
▷ The best season depends on the trail you plan to take, as some routes can be dangerous during snowy conditions. Generally, the hiking season lasts from mid-April to December (until the first snow). From December to April, the mountain remains covered in snow.
The most comfortable months for hiking are May and June (when the landscape is lush and the temperatures are moderate), as well as October and November (with pleasant temperatures and golden autumn landscapes).
Puntos de interese
Panorámica
Waypoint
2.574 m
Join this jeep trek
No need to pass by the stones, take the right way to join jeep trek
Intersección
2.550 m
The 'crossroad' of the false and true summit / The way to the summit on the photo
Cima
Sitio religioso
Comentarios (4)
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Thank you for the info. I hiked in May and it was very beautiful
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Gràcies per compartir aquesta ruta.
El camí de pujada sentit horari està molt perdut i ple de vegetació, és un camí directe al cim i puja molt verticalment.
La baixada és més suau però en molts llocs no hi ha camí.
Si no ho netegen jo aniria a fer altres excursions més agradables.
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One of the best hikes I've ever done in Armenia
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One of the top mountains in Armenia for its stunning scenery. Thank you for the route!