Climbing Mount Aragats: A Complete Guide

Mount Aragats is the highest mountain in Armenia and the dream summit of almost every local hiker. This massive extinct volcano rises in the Aragatsotn province, northwest of Yerevan, and on a clear day you can see its snowy crown from the capital. The good news: one of its peaks is within reach of any fit hiker in summer. The other good news: the highest one is a real mountaineering adventure for when you are ready.

The four peaks of Aragats

Aragats does not have a single summit. Its four peaks stand on the rim of a huge, eroded crater:

• North peak, 4,090 m: the highest point in Armenia. A long, demanding route with scrambling on rock.
• West peak: slightly lower than the North peak, connected to it by a ridge.
• East peak: another rim summit, less often climbed.
• South peak, 3,879 m: the lowest of the four and the most popular. A non-technical hike, often a first "3,000-plus" summit for Armenian hikers.

Most people start with the South peak, then come back in a later season for the North peak.

Getting to the trailhead: Lake Kari

Almost all routes start at Lake Kari (Kari Lich), a glacial lake at about 3,200 m on the southern slope. A paved road leads up there from the Byurakan side, passing the turnoff to Amberd fortress. Next to the lake there is a high-altitude cosmic ray research station, which has worked here since the Soviet era.

• There is no regular public transport to the lake. Most hikers drive or join an organised group.
• The road is usually open from late spring or early summer until the first heavy snow in autumn. Snow often closes it for the rest of the year.
• Starting at 3,200 m means you begin your hike already at high altitude. Take the first hour slowly.

Route 1: South peak (3,879 m)

Overview: a steady climb from Lake Kari, with about 700 m of elevation gain.

• Time: typically 4 to 6 hours round trip, including breaks.
• Terrain: a path over grassy slopes, then loose stones and scree, and finally a rocky ridge to the summit.
• Difficulty: moderate. No climbing skills are needed, but good fitness and solid shoes are.
• Navigation: in clear weather the route is obvious. In fog it is easy to lose the path, so carry an offline map or a GPS track.

From the top you look straight into the crater and across to the North, West and East peaks. On clear mornings Mount Ararat fills the horizon to the south.

Route 2: North peak (4,090 m)

Overview: the classic "highest point of Armenia" climb. It is a long day or an overnight trip.

• Time: often 8 to 12 hours round trip from Lake Kari. Many groups camp near the crater and make the summit push early in the morning.
• Terrain: a long approach, a crossing of the crater with snowfields that can last well into summer, and scrambling on rocky sections near the summit.
• Difficulty: hard. You need endurance, experience on rough terrain and good navigation skills. Early in the season you may need microspikes or crampons and an ice axe.
• Our advice: go with an experienced leader or a club that runs this route regularly, especially for your first attempt.

When to climb Aragats

The main season is July to September.

• June: a lot of snow remains on the upper slopes and in the crater. The South peak is possible for experienced hikers, but conditions vary greatly.
• July and August: the most reliable months, but also the season of afternoon thunderstorms. Start early and plan to be off the summit before noon.
• September: often the most stable weather and clear views, with colder mornings. The first snow can arrive at the end of the month.
• October to May: winter conditions. Only for experienced mountaineers with proper equipment.

Weather and safety on Aragats

Weather on Aragats changes quickly, even on a sunny summer day.

• Thunderstorms: if you hear thunder or see dark towering clouds, descend from ridges and summits immediately.
• Cold and wind: temperatures near the summit can drop close to freezing even in summer, especially in wind.
• Fog: clouds can cover the mountain within minutes. Agree on a turnaround time and stick to it.
• Sun: at almost 4,000 m UV radiation is intense. Sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat are essential, even when it is cool.

Altitude

Most people feel the altitude above 3,000 m: shortness of breath, mild headache, fatigue. To reduce the risk:

1. Walk slowly and steadily, especially in the first hour.
2. Drink regularly and eat small snacks.
3. If a headache gets worse, or you feel dizzy, confused or nauseous, descend. Going down is the most effective treatment.

In an emergency, call 112. Mobile coverage on Aragats is patchy, so if you have no signal, move to higher open ground and try again. Read our full hiking safety guide before you go.

What to bring

On top of the basics from our day hike packing checklist, bring for Aragats:

• Hiking boots with ankle support and a stiff sole for scree.
• A warm layer (fleece or light down jacket) and a windproof, waterproof jacket.
• Hat, gloves and a buff, even in August.
• Sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF 50) and lip balm.
• At least 2 litres of water per person: reliable sources above the lake are few.
• High-energy food: nuts, dried fruit, sandwiches, chocolate.
• Trekking poles, which help a lot on loose stones on the way down.
• For the North peak: a headlamp, extra layers and, early in the season, traction devices.

Respect the mountain

Aragats is a fragile alpine environment. Take all your rubbish back with you, stay on existing paths where possible and do not build new stone cairns that can confuse other hikers. In summer, shepherds graze their flocks on the lower slopes; give the animals and the guard dogs plenty of space.

Climb Aragats with a group

If you do not have a car or have never been above 3,000 m, a group hike is the easiest way to the top. Local clubs organise Aragats hikes throughout the summer and early autumn. See upcoming Aragats hikes, browse all hiking clubs, or, if you are just starting out, begin with our list of the best hikes in Armenia for beginners.