Old Goris Trail

The Old Goris Trail is a hiking path through limestone formations and medieval caves along the Vararak River in southeastern Armenia. The route covers about 4 kilometers with steep sections and multiple intersecting paths that require GPS navigation and approximately one and a half hours to complete.

The trail passes through an abandoned settlement where around 200 households once lived in cave dwellings carved into cone-shaped rocks during the early 19th century. These structures reflect how people adapted to life in this rocky landscape over generations.

The trail passes a local cemetery and traditional shrines where visitors can observe how Armenian people perform matagh rituals for healing purposes near the ancient cave structures. These sites remain important to the spiritual life of the community today.

The trail requires GPS navigation and sturdy footwear due to steep sections and multiple intersecting paths. Start early in the day to ensure you have enough daylight hours for exploring the route comfortably.

From the ridge south of Goris, views extend across Artsakh, the plains of southwest Azerbaijan, and the mountains of northwest Iran in a single panorama. This wide vista across three regions makes it a remarkable vantage point that most visitors do not anticipate finding.

Location: Գորիս համայնք

Operator: HIKEArmenia

Address: G942+48, Goris, Armenia

GPS coordinates: 39.50419,46.35586

Latest update: December 6, 2025 19:09