Backpacking
The TransCaucasian Trail
Contributed by Jeff ballard
Georgia and Armenia
Thruhike across Georgia and Armenia
- Stages
- 1
- Distance
- 1500
- Days
- 60
- Ascent
- 50000
More at TransCaucasian Trail Website
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More at TCT links (newsletter etc)
The TCT is a new thru-hiking route that crosses one of the least traveled regions on earth. Home to some of the most unique languages, landscapes and cultures plus some of the best food, the caucuses also are famous for amazing hospitality. I was invited for tea and food more times than I could count. Overall it was one of my favorite thru-hiking experiences (and I've had some good ones).
This isn't the PCT it's an intense trail with some off trail sections that require Navigation skills. Check out the website for more info on what to expect.
Stage 1: Georgia
700 km across the Republic of Georgia
Georgian food is becoming well-known, and for good reason. Nothing like hiking in the beautiful mountains and finishing a day in a guesthouse with a babushka cooking amazing khachapuri, a lake of melted cheese in delicious bread. Of course there are loads of opertinities for wild camping too.
The mountains of Georgia are ruggged and beautiful, the landscape is steep but the views are worth it. The trail takes you to more visited areas like Mestia but also to isolated valleys where humans rarely go. It's a great way to experience the country.
Stage 2: Armenia
700km
If Georgia is becoming a poorly kept secret, Armenia is truly a hidden gem. The food is still great, but the landscape is truly unique and wildly variable.One day it feels like you are is Iceland standing in a river of obsidian, the next day you are in southern California picking wild plumbs and figs.
I can't recommend Armenia enough, especially the hospitality and kindness of the people.
Closing thoughts
The TCT is a fantastic trail, tackle a single country for a 3-4 weeks or do the whole trail in two months. The mission of the trail is the spread out the impact of tourism so more people benefit and avoid over tourism. So you can hike a beautiful trail and feel good about it too.