Discover the Best Forest Trekking Routes in Iran

Nature's Palette: A Trekker's Guide to Iranian Forests

Iran, a land of diverse landscapes and ancient wonders, offers lush, expansive forests that beckon the nature enthusiast. From the tranquil trails of Chaldereh Park, shadowed by historical remnants, to the dense, green canopies of Babol Kenar and the captivating beauty of Aroust in Sari, the country's forests are a treasure trove for trekkers and history buffs alike. Each location promises scenic beauty and whispers tales from the past, making a trek through these forests a journey through time.

What are some of the top forest trekking routes in Iran?

Some of the top forest trekking routes include Sisangan Forest Park, known for its biodiversity, Safarood Forest Park, which offers lush landscapes, and Namak Abrood Forest Park, famous for its cable car rides that provide stunning aerial views of the forest.

What makes Chaldereh Forest Park unique for trekkers?

Chaldereh Forest Park in Amol is unique due to its combination of natural beauty and historical remnants, such as old mills and bridges, which enrich the trekking experience with a sense of history.

Which forest parks in Iran are suitable for family trekking?

Royan Forest Park in Nour and Babol Kenar Forest Park offer relatively easy and accessible trails that are ideal for families looking to enjoy a leisurely trek in a serene environment.

What should trekkers expect when visiting Aroust Forest in Sari?

Aroust Forest in Sari is captivating for its dense green canopies and the overall tranquility of the area. Trekkers can enjoy the lush foliage and the calming sounds of nature, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.

What are the best seasons for forest trekking in Iran?

The best time for forest trekking in Iran is spring and early autumn when the weather is mild, and the forests are lush and vibrant, offering a more comfortable and visually appealing trekking experience.

Are there any permits required for trekking in Iran’s forest parks?

While most forest parks in Iran do not require special permits, it’s always a good idea to check with local tourism offices or park management for any specific regulations or fees that might apply.

Frequently Asked Questions: Forest Trekking in Iran

Sisangan Forest Park

1965 was the year this beautiful forest was recognized for preserving and protecting its pristine nature and numerous animal species by national environmental organizations. This attention significantly highlighted the importance of this forest, leading to a greater appreciation of this “lung” in Mazandaran, Iran. Sisangan is among the best forest trekking routes in Iran. Many who love forest trails prioritize this natural park. The presence of ponds and large hidden lakes amidst Sisangan are among its extraordinary features. It’s worth mentioning that there are more species of box trees than we recognize, and the coastal and forested cover, and the combination of these two, have captivated many tourists to this day.

Safarood Forest Park: One of the Best Forest Trekking Routes in Iran

Located just 9 kilometers from the tourist city of Ramsar, there lies a multi-colored forest beside the ever-vibrant Safarood River, making it one of Iran’s most expansive forest trekking routes. Notably, when we think of forests, we might worry about a lack of amenities we’re accustomed to, but this isn’t the case with Safarood Forest Park in Mazandaran. With sanitation facilities, drinking water installations, and even beautiful wooden huts, it is easy and enjoyable for trekkers and leisure-seekers.

Namak Abrood Forest Park: From Heights to Deep Forest

Indeed, as you pass over the greenery of this forest in the Namak Abrood cable car cabins, you’ve wondered why not traverse this beautiful forest on foot and enjoy it even more. Yes, the question is valid. Especially for anyone who has paid attention to this forest, renowned as the most beautiful in Mazandaran. While you’re passing over the Namak Abrood forest from a few tens of meters above, some trekkers, unseen to you, are hiking, and what they receive is the pure oxygen their lungs inhale. To get a general view of a forest that covers 200 hectares of Mazandaran’s green cover, one has to choose the Namak Abrood cable car. Since it’s also counted among Iran’s best forest trekking routes, it’s worth walking it at least once on foot.

Chaldereh Forest Park

You may have heard of the two-thousand and three-thousand forests, but perhaps not of Chaldereh Forest Park, which is adjacent to these two vast forests. This forest spans 94 hectares. As its name suggests, ancient remnants, such as castles, water reservoirs, and many other historical structures, can be observed. Chaldereh Forest is located 18 kilometers from Tonekabon and offers a very accessible and enjoyable route for forest trekkers. If you choose this path for your trek, you can also visit the Dasht-e Daryasar, the Khashkedaran wildlife, and the Ramsar hot springs nearby.

Royan Forest Park in Nour

The interplay of sunlight and the thick, green leaves of the trees creates mesmerizing shadows that you might think only exist in adventurous movies. However, the beauty of this forest is undeniably natural. You may have heard of the Ab Pari waterfall. This waterfall is just a short distance from this forest, and it’s a beautiful destination to rejuvenate after a tiresome trek. To find the Chaldereh Forest Park, follow the forest route from Royan towards Baladeh.

Babol Kenar Forest Park

This forest covers an area of 760 hectares and belongs to the village of Doronkelay-e Sharqi in Babol. The forest’s beauty is distinctive throughout all seasons, especially spring and summer. Natural springs, sustained by the ever-abundant underground aquifers of the forest, are among its notable attractions. Don’t worry about amenities; Babol Kenar Forest Park also has a supermarket and sanitary services scattered throughout the forest.

Aroust Forest in Sari

Another city in the Mazandaran province is Sari, home to Aroust Forest, one of Iran’s best forest trekking routes. Before being recognized as one of Iran’s most beautiful forests, Aroust was a unique treasure trove of tree species such as oak, yew, hornbeam, and toska. Many have sought to exploit these trees for their valuable trunks. Art is like a treasure chest, and as we enjoy its trekking routes, we must strive to preserve and protect it. We should realize that this forest and others mentioned are among our country’s irreplaceable natural resources. If destroyed, we will neither have enough time to replace them nor will it be possible at all.