How to drive to Mount Espi Kouhak? A 15-hairpin 4x4 challenge
Mount Espi Kouhak is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 3,315m (10,875ft) above sea level, located in the Mazandaran Province of Iran. It’s one of the highest roads in the country.
Where is Mount Espi Kouhak?
The mountain is located in the northern part of the country and hosts communication facilities.
How long is the road to Mount Espi Kouhak?
The drive starts in the mountain village of Yush. The road to the peak spans 12.1 km (7.51 miles), but don't let the short distance fool you. You will be gaining 1,028 meters of vertical elevation in a very short span, which results in a sustained average gradient of 8.49%.
Is the road to Mount Espi Kouhak unpaved?
The surface of the road to Mount Espi Kouhak is entirely unpaved, consisting of a mix of packed dirt, loose shale, and larger rocks that can shift under the weight of a vehicle. The defining characteristic of this track is the series of 15 sharp hairpin turns. These switchbacks are narrow and require precise steering, often necessitating multi-point turns for larger 4x4 vehicles. Traction can be an issue, especially on the inside of the curves where the gradient is even steeper than the average 8.49%. A high-clearance 4x4 with good off-road tires is required to tackle the ruts and rocks without damaging the undercarriage.
What are the main hazards when driving to Mount Espi Kouhak?
Safety is a major concern due to the dangerous drops and lack of guardrails. The road is highly exposed, and for much of the 12.1 km drive, there is very little margin for error. If you suffer from vertigo, this is a route to avoid. There are no services available once you leave Yush, so carrying a spare tire, extra fuel, and plenty of water is a basic requirement for anyone attempting this high-altitude Iranian track.
Is the road to Mount Espi Kouhak open year-round?
Set high in the Alborz mountain range, the weather is the other major factor; at 3,315m, the peak can be hit by sudden storms or high winds even in mid-summer. It’s totally impassable in winters.