Armenia on Foot: Discovering the Transcaucasian Trail

Armenia on Foot: Discovering the Transcaucasian Trail, National Routes, and UNESCO World Heritage Treasures

Armenia unveils eight must-see hiking routes for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and heritage explorers.

July, 2025 – This summer, Armenia invites travelers to experience a unique adventure in the heart of the Caucasus through a selection of iconic trails that blend breathtaking nature, ancient history, and authentic hospitality. These routes are designed for lovers of hiking, silence, and backpacks—but also for those drawn to beauty, heritage, and human connection.

One of the most remarkable is the Transcaucasian Trail, which runs through Armenia from north to south as part of a broader regional project. Spanning over 800 kilometers, hikers will encounter untouched landscapes, remote villages, and remnants of the ancient Silk Road. 

Another exceptional route, the Armenian National Trail (ANT), connects 5 regions, 109 villages and towns, and 950+ kilometers spanning the entire country in a journey rich in culture and sensory experiences. It winds through the magnificent canyons of Lori, the forests of Tavush, the shores of Lake Sevan in Gegharkunik, to the vineyards of Vayots Dzor and the rock-hewn monasteries of Syunik, offering a rich tapestry of Armenian hospitality and diversity along the way. Hikers can already enjoy the 153-km section of the ANT in the Lori region, whose trail descriptions are available on the HIKEArmenia website. The Tavush region section will be built, marked, and ready for hiking by 2026. 

Just a few kilometers from Yerevan, the Garni Temple stands as a symbol of Armenia’s pagan past. A hiking trail connects this Greco-Roman gem to nearby geological wonders, from basalt gorges to volcanic plateaus—a rare immersion into the country’s spiritual and geological history. 

In the northeastern Syunik region, the Legends Trail echoes the myths and oral traditions still alive in Armenian villages. Between mysterious ruins, misty forests, and community-based lodging, the experience is deeply human and authentic—ideal for lovers of gentle hikes and immersive travel. Heritage enthusiasts won’t want to miss the hike connecting the Sanahin and Haghpat monasteries, both listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

This short section, suspended between sky and earth, offers an intense spiritual experience and a journey into Armenian medieval art. 

For a change of scenery, the Angel’s Canyon Loop offers dramatic rock formations and panoramic views—an ideal day hike for those who love variety in their landscapes. Meanwhile, the Trchkan Waterfall Trail leads to Armenia’s tallest waterfall, where nature roars in a hidden corner between Lori and Shirak provinces, rewarding hikers with a spectacle of water and wildflowers. 

Finally, Armenia’s mountains invite more seasoned hikers to gain altitude and perspective. From the country’s highest summit, Mount Aragats (4,   090 m), to the magical lake nestled inside the crater of Mount Azhdahak, these peaks offer unforgettable views and a profound connection with nature. Other must-climb mountains include Mount Khustup in the south, the colorful slopes of Mount Vayotssar, and the wind-swept ridges of Mount Dimats, each revealing a different facet of Armenia’s soul. 

With a growing range of accommodations (eco-lodges, guesthouses, and more), increasingly well-marked trails, and services tailored to hikers, Armenia is emerging as a sustainable, accessible, and unforgettable trekking destination. Easily connected to Paris via numerous direct flights, the country captivates with its authenticity, scenic richness, and warm hospitality.