Rapi lake / Mtnalich lake / Astghkan lake / Aragats lakes / Armenia

𝐑𝐚𝐩𝐢, 𝐀𝐬𝐭𝐠𝐡𝐤𝐚𝐧, and 𝐌𝐭𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐡 are well-known high-altitude lakes in the Aragats mountain range. Kari Lake and Umroy Lake are also part of the range, but they are located on the other side of Aragats.

▶ Distance from Yerevan:
85 km 1 hr 40 min

▶ Recommended for:
Hikers who enjoy mountain views, high-altitude trekking, and exploring wild, unmarked landscapes.

◤ Description of the Trail

To hike this trail, start from Geghadzor village ( Գեղաձոր գյուղ ) and follow the jeep tracks to Rapi Lake. Beyond Rapi, there is no clear path to Mtnalich and Astghkan, so be sure to navigate carefully in the right direction.

𝐑𝐚𝐩𝐢 𝐋𝐚𝐤𝐞 ( Ռապի լիճ ) is one of the high-altitude lakes in the Aragats range, sitting at 3,000 meters above sea level. You can reach it either on foot or by 4x4 from Geghadzor village . The lake lies in front of Aragats' North Peak, making it a popular spot for acclimatization and scenic views.

𝐌𝐭𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐡 𝐋𝐚𝐤𝐞 ( Մթնալիճ ) is the highest mountain lake in the Aragats range, situated at 3,450 meters. It is the second-highest alpine lake in Armenia, after Azhdahak Crater Lake. The name "Mtnalich" translates to "Dark Lake," referring to its distinct azure coloring.

𝐀𝐬𝐭𝐠𝐡𝐤𝐚𝐧 𝐥𝐚𝐤𝐞 ( Աստղկան լիճ ) is one of the most stunning lakes in the Aragats range, sitting at 3,140 meters above sea level. The hike to Astghkan starts from Rapi Lake. Positioned right in front of Aragats’ North Peak, it offers breathtaking mountain views. The name "Astghkan" translates to "Full of Stars" in Armenian, adding another reason to visit this unique spot.

▶When to Go?

▻ Recommended: July, August
▻ Doable: Mid-June to late September
▻ Not Recommended: October to June, as the slopes of Aragats are covered with snow and the area becomes extremely cold. The lakes are fully frozen, especially during the winter months.


◤FAQ about Rapi, Astghkan and Mtnalich lakes

▶ Is It Possible to Hike This Trail in 1 Day?
▷ If you don’t want to use vehicle support, you can complete the hike in either 1 or 2 days.
For a 1-day hike, you’ll need to start early in the morning and be prepared for a 1,250 m elevation gain and loss throughout the day.

For a 2-day hike, you can set up camp near Rapi Lake. The area around Astghkan Lake is also suitable for camping. However, Mtnalich is at a higher elevation, which could make it quite cold and less comfortable for camping.

Alternatively, you can hike just to Rapi Lake and back to Geghadzor. This shorter route would be 22 km instead of 32 km.

▶ Can I Get to Rapi by My 4x4 Car? Is the Jeep Trek Good?
▷ Yes, you can reach Rapi Lake by 4x4 car. The jeep trek follows the same path as the hiking trail. The trek is in good condition, though there’s a bit of confusion only at the last part of the trail.

▶ Can I Drive to All These Lakes by Car and Skip the Hike?
▷ No, you can't drive to Mtnalich and Astghkan lakes. You’ll need to hike from Rapi Lake, as it’s the last point accessible by 4x4 vehicles.

▶Can I climb Aragats from this side?
▷ Yes, you can hike to Aragats North Peak from this side. You'll need to keep left and connect with the main trail leading to the peak. However, there is no actual trail—just a steep, rocky section with no clear path. It's a tough climb and may not be worth it unless you've already done the classic route and want to explore Aragats from all possible, both hikable and non-hikable, sides.

▶ Is This Trail Overcrowded?
▷ I would say no, but occasionally local groups and travel agencies organize camping trips near Rapi Lake. It’s a well-known route for 2-day hikes, so you might encounter other hikers, especially on weekends.
Astghkan and Mtnalich lakes are much more remote, and there’s little chance of meeting other hikers there.

▶ What About Wild Animals? Is It Dangerous to Hike Here?
▷ The main concern is shepherd dogs. To avoid Yezidi tents with dogs, it's best to return via the same trail you took to reach Rapi Lake.
Wolves and bears also inhabit this area. If you're hiking solo rather than in a group, avoid complete silence—make some noise occasionally, especially on the way to Mtnalich.

*𝐼𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑢𝑎𝑙 𝑃𝑟𝑜𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑡𝑦 𝑁𝑜𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑒:
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