Azat reservoir / Classic trail / Armenia

Azat reservoir or Azati reservoir ( Ազատի ջրամբար ) is located in Ararat region at an altitude of 1050 m. It's also very close to Kotayk region. 

This is one of the most attractive spots close to Yerevan (40 min driving).
The reservoir is situated on the Azat river, surrounded by the Yeranos mountains and has truly admiring sights. 
t's above Lanjazat village ( Լանջազատ գյուղ ) from where we start our hike.

The reservoir was built on the Azat River, which is  part of the UNESCO World Heritage list (Azat Valley).
It was put into operation in 1976. The main purpose of Azat dam is to serve irrigation and hydro power generation.

It feeds on springs.


Some information about the trail~


--- There is no blazed trail here, I've just found the most comfy hike people normally do. So GPS is a must.

--- There are some variations of this trail. As depending on season and water level change I consider the mid way through the gorge is better than along the shores or the one close to the road.

--- We started our hike from the road near Lanjazat village and ended up some miles further on the same road. So if you want to return the starting point you can either hitchhike to there or hike back 5 km the same trail (or hike back along the road)

--- SEASON: We usually hike here from March till June, as it's really stuffy in summer, even at the end of May it could be very hot and dry, as Ararat region is the driest province of Armenia.

November is also a good season for this trail.

From December till March it may be covered with snow (depending on season), accordingly there is a need of making some inquiries before the hike for that period.

So the best season is: March, April, November.

--- Though last time I hiked with kids, some parts of the trail (especially the first half) have steep slopes with gravel, where there is a risk to slip. So I'd not consider the trail as a kids friendly one.

--- The most spectacular sceneries are at the beginning of the trail and near the end on the cliffs (I've mentioned these spots as "vista points").

--- We left our car in Lanjazat village, hiked till we were too close to the road,  turned right and headed to the cliffs for the view and got back to the paved road.

--- At the end of the route there is both a route to the paved road and the way up to panorama view. I'd suggest going for the view, especially at sunset.

--- The dam area is twice more amazing when it's not foggy and when thy sky is clear.