In every season, the Armenian Highlands astonish with their unique and ever-changing landscapes and colors. Each time of year brings a new palette that not only delights the eyes but also offers the perfect opportunity to hike and explore Armenia’s nature.

It’s no coincidence that green is considered nature’s universal call—one that no one can ignore. In spring and early summer, nature awakens in a vivid green dress, adorned with colorful flowers. The air is filled with the scent of new life and birdsong. At the same time, the summer heat hasn’t yet settled over the land, and the temperatures are ideal for long walks outdoors. All that remains is to choose a direction—to meet nature’s awakening and recharge body and soul.

Here are several hiking destinations in Armenia where you can fully experience the endless shades and scents of green:

1. Mount Dimats (Tavush Province)

Mount Dimats (2,378 m), located in Tavush Province, is one of the region’s most popular and photogenic peaks. It belongs to the Ijevan Mountain Range and is second in height only to Mount Sarcapat. Dimats lies about 5 km north of the village of Teghut. The hike starts from the road leading to the Haghartsin Monastery and is of moderate difficulty, spanning 18 km with a 1,000 m elevation gain.

This trail takes you through vast, lush meadows full of wildflowers. From the summit, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views over the Aghstev Valley and the rocky cliffs of the Ijevan Range. Dimats is a peak that will call you back again and again, whether dressed in green or flaming autumn colors.

2. Tsaghkunyats Lake (Kotayk Province)

Situated in Kotayk Province, Lake Tsaghkunyats lies on the eastern side of the Tsaghkunyats Mountains at an elevation of 2,427 meters. It is fed only by snowmelt and rainwater. The hike begins in Aghveran and winds through flower-covered trails before ending at the lake. The route is moderately difficult, about 11 km long.

You can follow this hike using the HIKEArmenia app. It’s especially popular in spring and summer when the hills burst with colorful flowers, herbs, and trees. From the lake, you’ll enjoy stunning panoramic views of Mount Ararat, Mount Ara, the Geghama Range, and Mount Teghenis.

3. Mount Tapalots (Vayots Dzor Province)

Vayots Dzor is beautiful in every season, and to experience its mix of lush greens and rich reds, we recommend a hike to the summit of Mount Tapalots (2,160 m), part of a subrange of the Vardenis Mountains. The hike starts from the village of Taratumb and takes you through fields of wildflowers, dense vegetation, and dramatic Vayots Dzor rock formations.

What makes this trail memorable is not just the route itself, but also the incredible views from the summit: below is Selim River and its tributaries winding through the valley; above rise the majestic peaks of Vardenis, Teksar, and Karkatar.

4. Debed Canyon (Lori Province)

Lori Province is an excellent choice any time of year, but especially now when everything is green and vibrant. Unlike most hiking routes that climb upward, here you'll descend into one of Armenia’s most stunning gorges, especially charming during this season.

The trail starts near the Odzun Monastery and ends in the town of Tumanyan. Along the way, you’ll enjoy lush Lori greenery, the gentle murmur of the Debed River, views of the Virahayots Mountains, and hidden historic gems like the Horomayr Monastery (7th century) and Kobayr Monastery (12th century), tucked into the gorge walls.

5. Dzoraget Canyon (Lori Province)

Intersecting with Debed Canyon is another beloved destination—Dzoraget Gorge, beginning in the town of Stepanavan. After hearing the music of the Debed, it's time to explore Dzoraget. Surrounded by every shade of green, this gorge offers several hiking options, with the most popular being the trail to Tsitsqar, also known as Arevatsag Gorge.

Nearby, you can also visit historic landmarks like Hnevank Monastery (7th century) and the medieval Lori Fortress (11th century).

6. Khachaghbyur Canyon & Okonavank (Tavush Province)

Continuing with must-see gorges, head to Tavush Province and explore the trail to Okonavank Monastery. The path leads through the forested and rocky Khachaghbyur Gorge—a truly enchanting part of Tavush’s natural landscape.

The well-marked trail ends at Okonavank, a monastery dating back to the 18th century, making this route one of the best for immersing yourself in the splendor of Tavush’s wild beauty.

7. Khosrov Forest State Reserve (Ararat Province)

The Khosrov Reserve is located in the historic Khosrov Forest area, originally established in the early 4th century by King Khosrov III Kotak as a royal hunting ground. Today, it spans parts of Ararat Province, within the basins of the Azat and Vedi rivers.

At this time of year, the reserve is wrapped in vibrant green, attracting countless hikers, especially since it's close to Yerevan. You can enjoy long walks, forage for edible plants and mushrooms, and wander through forests of juniper, oak, and wild pear.

The reserve also hides beautiful waterfalls like Astghik and Vahagn, as well as historical sites such as Havuts Tar Monastery, Aghjots Vank, and the Kakavaberd Fortress.

8. Artavani Lake & Mount Parakatar (Vayots Dzor Province)

Green is beautiful, of course, but its contrast with deep azure blue is truly spectacular. To witness this vibrant canvas of colors, head to Vayots Dzor Province. From the village of Artavan, travel 2.5 km northeast to reach the picturesque Artavan (or "Mirror") Lake.

With its map-like shape, it’s also known as the “Map of the World.” To fully appreciate this natural wonder, follow the HIKEArmenia trail of the same name or hike up Mount Parakatar (2,528 m) for a sweeping view of this green-blue masterpiece from above.