Mount Aragats is an extinct stratovolcano northwest of Yerevan, the highest point in present-day Armenia. Its four summits — southern (3,879m), western (4,080m), eastern (3,916m) and northern (4,090m) — surround a crater lake at around 3,200m, making it a uniquely accessible high-altitude destination.
Getting to the trailhead: The most popular starting point is the Kari Lake parking area (3,185m), reached by a dirt road from Aparan or Aragatsavan. You need a 4WD after late October. From Yerevan the drive is about 2 hours.
The northern summit (4,090m) is the hardest of the four. From Kari Lake it involves about 5 hours of hiking (return), with an elevation gain of roughly 900m. The route is non-technical — no ropes required — but the upper section is steep loose scree. Start by 7am to avoid afternoon thunderstorms.
The southern summit (3,879m) is the most popular for good reason: the views of Ararat are best from this side, and the hike is shorter (3–4 hours return). On a clear day you can see all the way to the Caucasus range in the north.
What to bring: Temperature can drop to -10°C even in summer at the summit. Bring wind-proof layers, sun protection (UV is intense at altitude), at least 2 litres of water per person, and a map — the scree trails are easy to lose in poor visibility.
Best season: Mid-June to early October. Snow typically remains at the crater rim until late June and can return in October. The wildflower season in July on the lower slopes (2,500–3,000m) is extraordinary — the meadows around Amberd fortress are carpeted in colour.
Guides: While experienced trekkers can go independently, a local guide is strongly recommended for the northern summit — the route requires some navigation skills in poor weather, and altitude sickness is common in less acclimatised visitors.