From AKHPRADZOR to JERMUK

Biking trail description
The mountain biking trail starts from Akhpradzor village of Gegharkunik province and ends in Vardenis sierra. On the route the panorama is magnificent, the bikers can see Lake Sevan, forests, other villages and mountains…
The biking route is situated in the central part of Vardenis sierra and passes near Al lakes. The final destination is Jermuk, city of mineral waters and recreation resort.

Monuments description:
Minor and Major Al lakes are located on the southern slopes of Vardenis sierra. The major lake has 2729 altitude from the sea level, the length is 3.5 km and the depth 10 m. The minor lake has 2743 altitude from the sea level, the length 1.5 km and the depth 7 m. These lakes have volcanic origin.

Jermuk city is in Vayots Dzor province that is surrounded with sierra having 2500-3000 m altitude from the sea level and the gorge of Arpa river is in the south-eastern part. There are 36 mineral recreating sources on the right and left benches of the river, as well as the beginning of the river is the waterfall called “Mermaid hair”. This city is also surrounded with coniferous forests.

Legend about miraculous water
Once upon a time there was a hunter who speared a deer. The poor animal run to the waters of Arpa and jumped into the river. The hunter followed him and discovered the miracle: the speared animal run out from the river as a healed deer. From that moment on the surprised hunter spread out the story throughout the world about the miracle water flowing in the mountains of Jermuk. Nowadays, the deer is the symbol of the city.

Flora
Jermuk is very rich with various endemic species of flora, that is why the air is very fresh and plentiful with oxygen. It is possible to organize recreational vacations in all seasons of the year.
Fauna
The Fauna of Jermuk is also very rich and interesting, while walking in the forests of the city, hikers can meet bears, rabbits, foxes, wild cats etc.

Safety and security
The mobile connection functions with interruptions. In case of emergency, call 911 or 112, be aware from unleashed dogs.

Trail technical parameters
Best period: June-October
Distance: 167 km from Yerevan,
Duration: 2 hours 41 min on car to reach the route
Bike route length: 38.5 km
Ride duration: 6-7 hours
The 100% of the route is solid
Altitude from the sea level: 2380-2100 m
The best drink is bottled water

How to get to the Trail
The departure from Yerevan to Akhpradzor village of Gegharkunik province should be done on car (taxi), in order to reach the above mentioned bike route. The overnight stay should be organized in Jermuk then return to Yerevan by taxi. The reliable taxi cars are with electronic counters that are quite affordable in all over Armenia.