Armenia is full of legends. When you walk down a village street and greet the first elder you meet, chances are that you'll hear a story that will leave you in awe. For example, how a village girl escaped from the enemy, jumped off a cliff, then turned into a cloud, bringing a breeze to their orchards to this day.

This is the magic of Armenia’s nature: every stone, hill, cliff, and peak tells a story. Some are real, some are unreal, and some are so beautiful that you can’t help but believe. We will share the legends that the locals have told us, over tea or while sharing a piece of bread. Whether they're true or not: That’s up to you to discover.

But one thing is certain: the ancient tales of Armenia’s mountains are not just fun stories—they have power. They are strong, proud, and lofty. Who knows, maybe the next story is being born right beneath your feet.

Mount Aragats

Let’s start with the highest point of Armenia, Mount Aragats. An extinct volcano, with its four peaks—northern (4090 m), western (4001 m), eastern (3916 m), and southern (3879 m)—each telling a different legend. Aragats is not just a mountain. It's a colossal figure—strong and stern, yet full of beauty. You only feel its true nature when you walk its paths, as your sweat mixes with the wind, the stones slip beneath your feet, and the summit seems unreachable, but refuses to let you quit.

You can ascend all of Aragats' peaks, depending on your physical readiness and a bit of determination. Different routes lead to the summits, but if it’s your first try or you’re looking for an easier path, we recommend the Southern Peak from Lake Kari. The view is magnificent, and the path is one of the easiest.

Legend
There are several ancient legends about Aragats. Here’s one:
Once, the mountains of Armenia were brothers—huge, powerful, and invincible. Every day, at dawn, they woke up simultaneously, tied their belts, and greeted each other, wind at their backs, sun on their faces. As the brothers aged, they started waking up later. One day, they forgot to tie their belts, and so they greeted each other without them. They were punished and turned to stone. The brothers became mountains, their belts became green meadows, and their tears turned into immortal springs.

After the Hike
After your hike, we recommend spending a day in Byurakan. You can walk the trail from the Byurakan Observatory to the Orgov Radio-optical Observatory. The night sky, far from the noise and lights of the city, is truly magical. Why not lie in the grass and count the stars, or visit the observatory and gaze at the heavens with experts? If you're a history lover, don’t miss the trail from Antarut to Amberd. Not only is it scenic, but it’s also like a time machine to the 7th century, although it was built after Christ’s birth and later expanded and renovated by different dynasties.

Important Information:
Remember that Aragats hosts all four seasons at once—often simultaneously. Therefore, it’s crucial to wear layered clothing that adapts to varying temperatures, a waterproof jacket, and good hiking boots.

Ascend: 3 hours (5 km)
Relative Height (South Peak): 640

Mount Azhdahak 

 If you ever wanted to visit another planet, it’s time to head to Azhdahak. This rugged, yet stunning crimson mountain feels like something from another world. The climb can start from several routes. If you don’t enjoy long hikes, you can even take an off-road vehicle to the base, then walk about 3 km to the summit.

Azhdahak is the highest peak in the Geghama mountain range (3597 m). The summit crater is filled with water. Snow often “comes to stay,” and fog can unexpectedly embrace you—even in summer. Especially in August, the mountain reminds you of a vanishing dream.

Legend
A whole epic tale can be written here. Azhdahak is the name of the evil dragon and a king from Iranian mythology. According to Armenian legend, he dreams of King Tigran defeating him. To prevent this, Azhdahak takes Tigran’s sister, Tigranuhi, as his bride. After a great battle, Tigran defeats Azhdahak and saves his sister. In the Geghama mountains, you can see dragon stones and rock carvings. Yes, legends hang in the air, in the dust and wind. Every stone, every image has a word to tell you.

After the Hike
On your way back, we recommend spending a day in Garni hiking. The pagan spirit of  Garni Temple awaits you, as well as  Azat Reservoir, where the trail ends. Be there at sunset. The reflection of the mountains in the water will remain in your memory for a long time.

Important to Know
On your way to Azhdahak, you will pass several campsites. You can find the Azhdahak campsite on our app, where you will not only be warmly welcomed but also guided to the summit. Remember, Armenian shepherd dogs, though often friendly and calm, are the true guardians of the area. Be cautious and don’t get too close, and everything will be fine.

Ascend: 1.5 hours (5 km)
Relative Height: 450 m
    

Mount Khustup

 Khustup is a mountain where miracles happen. When you reach the summit, you’ll witness the white clouds gently approaching, wrapping your view in a transparent mist. It’s an unpredictable moment, and if you encounter it, rest assured, you’re lucky.

Khustup can be reached through several trails, too. Compared to other mountains, it’s about a 5-6 hour-drive from Yerevan to Kapan, so it’s best to pack for a few days. The classic route starts from Navcha, which also has a campsite. But if you’re looking for a more challenging, yet fairytale-like path, we suggest climbing from the Upper Vachagan village. The trail passes through forested areas where light plays among the trees, and silence accompanies you.

Legend
Khustup is a sacred mountain, and locals have called it the “hermit” mountain. For centuries, it has been a place of prayer and pilgrimage. On its slopes, near the Kozni spring, rests the great Armenian commander Garegin Nzhdeh’s remains. Here, not only nature speaks, but history as well. No wonder that the “Lengends trail” ends with Khustup with city of Kapan at its foot.

After the Hike
The Upper Vachagan route also offers a view of the Beghi Desert, a mysterious place accessible only on foot as there’s no road for vehicles.

Important to Know
Khustup is a state nature reserve.

Ascend: 7 hours (12 km)
Relative Height: 2000 m

 Lilit Khachaturyan