Off-the-beaten-track adventures in Northern Armenia

Armenia’s diverse landscapes, with their rolling highlands, lush valleys, and fast-flowing rivers, create a vibrant outdoor playground. Northern Armenia, in particular, offers an abundance of adventure, with mountains, rivers and forests providing the perfect setting for mountain biking, cross-country skiing, ziplining and river rafting. 

Whether you’re an experienced thrill-seeker or simply curious about outdoor activities, discover some of the best off-the-beaten-path adventures in Northern Armenia. 

Getting around Northern Armenia

Exploring Northern Armenia is easy with several transportation options. For flexibility, consider renting a car, or, for a local experience, take a marshrutka (minibus) or shared taxi. You can also arrange an adventure tour directly from Yerevan with local operators. 

Lori Province: Biking, Rafting, and Riverside Trails

Vanadzor

Just 100 kilometres north of Yerevan lies Vanadzor, the gateway to Lori Province’s adventure trails along the Debed River. Known for its lake views, botanical gardens and mineral springs, Vanadzor also houses the Fine Arts Museum, showcasing a remarkable collection of Armenian art. 

Mountain bikers will love Boo Mountain Bike Park, where Armenia’s first pump track awaits, surrounded by majestic mountain scenery. 

The Debed River

Travelling along the Debed River leads to Alaverdi, near the Georgian border, a town known for its historic charm and UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Sanahin and Haghpat Monasteries. Monastery tours, following the trails of the Armenian National Trail (ANT) and Transcaucasian Trail (TCT), are popular here.

Thrill-seekers can enjoy whitewater rafting on the Debed, starting from Tumanyan. Alternatively, hike through the serene Dzoraget and Arevatsag Canyons, where you’ll find heritage sites like Hnevank Monastery and Lori Castle. Lori Province also offers skiing, snowshoeing and snow rafting in winter, making it a year-round adventure destination. 

Tavush Province: Quad Biking, Caving, and Hiking

Dilijan National Park

Known as Armenia’s “green lungs,” Tavush Province’s Dilijan National Park is perfect for hiking and nature exploration. The town of Dilijan, renowned for its charm, provides easy access to trails leading to monasteries, waterfalls and lakes. 

One popular trail, the Hidden Waterfall Trail, passes by attractions such as the Haghartsin Monastery. For more adventurous trekkers, Yeghjervasar Peak offers a rewarding spring and summer ascent. In winter, several trails are accessible for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. 

Dilijan is also home to adventure parks with ziplining and treetop activities. Nearby, the Khachakhbyur Gorge features via ferrata routes through Lastiver’s mysterious caves, while quad and motorbike tours bring more adrenaline. 

The Ijevan Mountains

The Ijevan Mountains offer numerous peaks, with Mount Dimats standing out at 2,378 meters, accessible on foot or with an off-roading tour. This challenging ascent rewards hikers with views over Tavush Province and the Shaghot Waterfall. For more relaxed hiking, Ijevan State Sanctuary Nature Reserve is ideal, with walking trails through 59 square kilometres of protected forest ecosystem. 

Shirak Province: Snow-Kiting, Power-Kiting, and Biking

Gyumri and Mount Aragats

Shirak Province, home to the historic city of Gyumri, boasts fascinating natural attractions and outdoor adventures. Trails around Gyumri pass ancient fortress ruins, lakes and grasslands, with highlights like the hidden Trchkan Waterfall.

Mount Aragats, Armenia’s highest peak, is a popular climbing destination in summer and a snow-kiting hub in winter, where guided lessons cater to all skill levels. For something different, power-kiting on the windy plains around Gyumri offers incredible views of Mount Aragats from a distance. 

Lake Arpi

Lake Arpi National Park and the Akhuryan River are ideal for a calm retreat, with walking and bird-watching. The spring and autumn migration seasons bring flocks of flamingos, egrets and herons to the lake, while nearby, the 10th-century Marmashen Monastery is a peaceful cultural stop. 

With activities that vary by season—river rafting and biking in summer, and snowshoeing and snow-kiting in winter—Northern Armenia is a year-round destination for nature lovers. Plan your trip today by visiting the armenia.travel website and prepare for an unforgettable adventure amid the wild beauty of Armenia.