Gutanasar, Mountain summit in Kotayk Province, Armenia
Gutanasar is a three-peaked mountain in Kotayk Province that rises to 2,301 meters above sea level. The slopes climb gently for about 300 meters from the surrounding base.
This is an extinct volcano whose final eruption occurred roughly 200,000 years ago, determined through scientific dating of surrounding lava flows. That volcanic past has shaped the geological features visible at the site today.
The mountain contains substantial deposits of obsidian, which archaeological findings indicate served as a material source for tools throughout Armenian history.
From Yerevan, drive about 40 kilometers to Fantan village, where a hiking trail leads toward the mountain base. The climb is manageable, but bring plenty of water and wear suitable footwear.
A deep fissure at the summit reveals thick layers of volcanic lava that create an otherworldly landscape. These formations let visitors observe the volcano's inner structure firsthand.
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