An extension of the much shorter Noravank Trail, this trail leads hikers through an oasis for butterflies and bears alike, the Gnishik Canyon. It starts at the remote village of Gnishik and ends at the iconic Noravank Monastery.

Before setting off, be aware that bears are known to frequent this area, even using the trail itself at times. Starting from Gnishik village, follow the trail down into the Gnishik Canyon and get ready for some spectacular cliffside views where you’ll see interesting rock formations and caves built right into the canyon! The trail itself is a mix of ancient footpaths and a newly built trail that makes up a small portion of the Transcaucasian Trail.

The Gnishik Canyon is part of the Arpa Protected Landscape, home to almost 900 plant species and over 500 animal species, including the majestic bezoar ibex, a species of goat indigenous to Armenia. See if you can spot one on your hike! The Arpa Environmental Foundation, which manages the reserve, has placed informational signs about the wildlife throughout the trail, should you like to learn more. If you’re specifically interested in seeing the animals of the reserve, you can contact the organization directly at arpafund@gmail.com or call +374 095 959 007 to arrange a ranger-guided animal watching tour. After traversing this animal oasis, flora, and fauna, immerse yourself in a cultural wonder, the 13th-century Noravank Monastery.