Every year, the Lori Eco Festival transforms Stepanavan, a small city in Armenia’s Lori Province, into a hub of nature-focused excitement and exploration. This festival is more than a gathering; it’s a direct invitation to engage with the fiercely vibrant landscape that surrounds Stepanavan—a place where hiking trails snake through ancient forests, and crisp mountain air carries the rush of wild rivers daring you to follow their course. The festival offers guided hikes, workshops, and eco-activities that welcome all levels of adventurers—from casual nature lovers to seasoned trekkers seeking dynamic terrain.

The core trail featured during the festival covers roughly 8 kilometers with an elevation gain of about 350 meters. The path threads through dense beech and pine forests, where sunbeams clash with shifting shadows, revealing patches of moss and clusters of wildflowers to one side. The forest seems to breathe with you as it pushes and pulls at your pace, enforcing respect for its quiet vigor. The trail’s uneven, rocky sections provide a mild challenge, making solid hiking boots essential.

At points, the route opens to sweeping views of the Debed River canyon, running below like a bold silver line daring the wind itself. These lookout spots are perfect for short breaks and photography—a vivid reminder that the landscape here demands attention without theatrics.

Planning for the Lori Eco Festival means preparing for varying spring or early autumn conditions, which are the ideal months to visit. Daytime temperatures are comfortable but mornings and evenings require warm layers. The festival prioritizes sustainability, urging visitors to carry reusable water bottles, respect local wildlife, and stay on marked trails to protect the fragile ecosystem.

Staying hydrated is critical. Water sources are limited along the route, so bringing at least 1.5 liters per person is recommended. Timing your hike in the early morning lets you enjoy cooler temperatures and less foot traffic, which enhances the immersive nature experience.

Festival activities also include local craft markets and workshops focused on environmental education, making it a chance to learn as well as adventure. For accommodation, Stepanavan city offers cozy guesthouses with local charm and quick access to the trailheads.

This festival isn’t just an event; it’s a hands-on interaction with a landscape that holds fast to its wild heritage. It challenges you physically, rewards you visually, and connects you culturally with the people and places of Lori Province. Whether this is your first hike or your hundredth, the Lori Eco Festival offers a grounded, exhilarating invitation to explore Armenia’s vivid outdoor world.