Goygol National Park, Protected nature reserve in Goygol Rayon, Azerbaijan.
Goygol National Park is a protected reserve in the Lesser Caucasus Mountains featuring multiple lakes surrounded by dense forests. The landscape includes mountain meadows and deep valleys where streams flow through woodlands and alpine vegetation.
An earthquake in 1139 triggered a massive rock collapse from Mount Kapaz that dammed the Akhsu River and created the current lake basin. This geological event shaped the park's distinctive landscape and has remained a defining moment in the region's natural history.
The park holds deep meaning for local communities who have long relied on its resources and waters for their way of life. The pristine lakes and forests serve as a backdrop to village traditions and continue to shape how people in the region connect with nature.
Hiking trails connect different parts of the park, with some paths being easier and others requiring more effort depending on your fitness level. Bring sturdy footwear and prepare for changing weather, as mountain conditions can shift quickly throughout the day.
The park shelters rare birds of prey including bearded vultures that nest in mountain crevices and soar above the valleys. These raptors have become uncommon in many mountain regions and rely on areas like this for survival.
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