Transcaucasian Trail Armenia

The Transcaucasian Trail Armenia is also a journey through the region’s history: it passes prehistoric archaeological sites, ancient monasteries tucked deep into forests and canyons, Silk Road caravanserais, and the sanatoriums and monuments that serve as relics of the Soviet era.

On the Armenian stage of the trail, parts of the route are still off-trail and will require independent route-finding. The weather and terrain conditions in the Caucasus can be harsh. You must be prepared to be self-sufficient for extended sections and aware that emergency medical care and search and rescue may often be unavailable. The route can be hiked in either direction.

You’ll start the trail in Meghri, near the Iranian border. Here, you’ll hike through steep canyons and rolling hills until you arrive in Kapan.

When you head out from Kapan, you’ll climb through forests and meadows. If you’re on the trail at the right time, you’ll see lots of wildflowers! Check out Mount Khustup on the way, and you’ll pass Tatev Monastery, which sits on a gorge with incredible views. From here, you will trek north through the Vorotan River Valley and Syunik’s forests. Cross high mountain passes and end in Yeghegnadzor, a wine region (which you’ll likely be very happy about!).

Next, you’ll hike through the Arpa River Valley and Noravank Gorge’s cliffs. Descend to Lake Sevan and wrap up in Martuni before you climb into the Geghama Mountains for panoramic views. Then, you’ll descend into the lush Dilijan National Park, nicknamed “Armenian Switzerland.”

When you leave Dilijan, you’ll begin to trek through Tavush’s hills and forests. On the way, you can also visit Goshavank Monastery before reaching Ijevan. Once you hike through Tavush, you’ll turn and hike west from Noyemberyan through the Debed River Valley. Check out Haghpat and Sanahin Monasteries, then finish in Alaverdi.

From here, you will into the Lori plateau, with views of pastures and villages, and end in Stepanavan, known for its botanical gardens and pine forests. Finally, you will cross the Pambak Mountains and descend into the Lori River Valley. This is where you will finish the trek in Vanadzor, Armenia’s third-largest city.

The thru-hiking window for the Armenia route is roughly from early June to mid-October. Earlier starts or later finishes may be possible, but you will likely have to contend with snow in the higher mountains and be prepared to take alternate routes if necessary.

If you decide to also hike the Georgia section of the trail and want to hike through the earlier summer, you’ll need to begin with Armenia to wait for the snow to melt in Georgia.

The Trans Caucasian Trail is still very new, which means there are sections that you’re going to need to bushwhack and navigate using GPX. Only attempt this trail if you have extensive backcountry experience and are confident in your physical and mental abilities removed from people.

Research the trail as thoroughly as you can using our site, the official trail website, the information channels the organization provides for hikers, and talk with people who have already hiked this trail. The TCT Organization puts together a group chat for hiker “cohorts” to communicate each year and share itineraries or questions. Share your plans with people you trust, including your anticipated start and end times, chosen route and any alternates, and emergency contact information. It’s always nice to check in with them when you have service to keep them updated.