Ughtusar: Driving to the 3,052m volcanic peak in Armenia
Located in the Ararat Province of Armenia, Ughtusar is a high mountain peak reaching an elevation of 3,052m (10,013ft) above sea level. This ancient volcanic area is home to one of the highest roads in the country, offering a raw, high-altitude experience with panoramic views of the Armenian Highlands and the surrounding peaks.
The journey to the summit is a classic Armenian off-road challenge. The track takes you through a landscape of volcanic stones and high-altitude pastures, where the air is thin and the weather is notoriously unpredictable. At the coordinates 40°05'07.6"N 44°59'29.1"E, you are in the heart of a region where modern infrastructure disappears, replaced by tracks carved by seasonal shepherds and daring overlanders.
| Road facts: Ughtusar Peak | |
|---|---|
| Location | Ararat Province, Armenia |
| Elevation | 3,052 m (10,013 ft) |
| Length | 24.9 km (15.5 miles) |
| Elevation Gain | 1,643 m |
| Average Gradient | 6.59% |
How difficult is the road to Ughtusar?
Starting from the small settlement of Gyughadzor, the road to the summit stretches for 24.9 km. Over this distance, drivers must tackle a massive elevation gain of 1,643 meters. The road is totally unpaved and consists of a mix of loose dirt, volcanic rocks, and seasonal ruts. A high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is strictly required to navigate the technical sections of the climb.
The average gradient sits at 6.59%, but this number is deceptive. Long stretches of the track feature much steeper ramps where traction becomes an issue, especially if the ground is damp. The terrain is unforgiving, and the lack of any safety barriers means that there is zero room for error on the narrowest parts of the ridge.
Weather hazards and seasonal warnings
One of the most dangerous aspects of Ughtusar is the sudden thunderstorm activity. Due to its elevation and exposed nature, storms can develop in minutes, even in mid-summer. These storms can quickly transform the unpaved tracks into mud-filled traps or cause flash floods that make the road impassable. It is vital to check local weather forecasts and start your ascent early in the day to avoid the common afternoon clouds.
Snow can remain on the upper sections of the peak well into June, and the first winter drifts often arrive in late September. If you are planning to reach the summit, ensure you are fully self-sufficient with recovery gear, plenty of water, and warm clothing. Ughtusar is a drive for those who appreciate the solitude of the Armenian mountains, but it demands respect for the mechanical strain that a 1,600-meter climb puts on your vehicle's cooling and braking systems.
Pic: Transcaucasian Trail