Dorfak Peak is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful mountains in Iran and one of the tourist destinations of Gilan province. This mountain is actually a dormant volcano.This peak is located twenty-seven kilometers northeast of Rudbar city at an altitude of 2733 meters and continues to the valley of three thousand Tonekabon.
top of Dorfak
Taftan and heights around it, are known as heights of Khash area located at Iran’s Sistan and Beluchistan province. The province of Sistan and Baluchistan is located in the south-eastern part of the Iran and has an area of 181, 578 sq.km. Though it is the third largest province of the country, it is sparsely populated.
Taftan route
The Alborz Mountains form a dense, long and narrow chain that runs through northern Iran separating the Caspian Sea from the central plateau of Iran. The higher peaks of the Alborz exceed heights of 14 to 15 thousand feet with the 15912 ft (4850 m) summit of Mt. Alam (Alam kooh) as the range’s second highest peak. The dormant volcanic cone of Mt. Damavand soars far above the rest of the mountains to an elevation of 18606 ft (5671 m) forming the country’s highest peak. The proximity of the mountains to the Caspian Sea has created a steamy lush environment on the coastal plain and the northernmost slopes. The rest of the mountains, however, are mostly bare, limiting trees to the banks of the streams at the bottom of the valleys. Grasslands, alpine tundra and permanent snow cover the higher elevations. Winter brings a heavy coat of powdery snow several feet deep creating an ideal environment for skiing.
Tochal summit
If you’re looking for an unforgettable trekking experience, Mount Sabalan should be on your bucket list! As the third-highest peak in Iran at 4,811 meters (15,784 feet), this dormant volcano offers breathtaking landscapes, thrilling trekking routes, and a stunning crater lake at its summit.
With diverse flora, fauna, and natural hot springs, Mount Sabalan Trekking Guide is perfect for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those eager to explore Iran’s rich nomadic culture. Whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or a beginner looking for a challenge, this guide will help you plan the perfect trek!
Mount Sabalan is located in Ardabil Province, northwestern Iran, near the city of Meshginshahr. It is part of the Alborz mountain range and is known for its volcanic formations and ice-covered summit.
Mount Sabalan experiences harsh winters and cool summers, making it essential to plan your trek during the right season.
👉 For the best trekking experience, visit between June and September.
There are three main routes to reach the summit, each offering different levels of difficulty and scenic views.
✅ Best for first-time trekkers
✅ Has a shelter at 3,600 meters
✅ Starts from Shabil Hot Springs (2,700 meters)
This is the easiest and most commonly used route, with a well-marked trail leading to the summit.
❌ Requires better navigation skills
✅ Fewer trekkers, more solitude
✅ Offers diverse landscapes
This route provides stunning views but is harder to navigate due to steep climbs.
❌ Only recommended for experienced climbers
❌ Involves technical climbing
✅ Offers the most direct ascent
This is the least used route and requires expert mountaineering skills.
Mount Sabalan is considered a moderate to difficult trek, depending on the route.
💡 Tip: Stay at the 3,600-meter shelter overnight to adjust to the altitude before the summit push.
Must-have gear for a safe and comfortable trek:
✔ Insulated jacket & warm layers
✔ Waterproof hiking boots
✔ Sunglasses & sunscreen
✔ Gloves and a hat
✔ Trekking poles
✔ Headlamp
✔ Sleeping bag (if camping)
✔ High-energy snacks
✔ At least 3 liters of water per day
The highlight of the trek is reaching the summit, where you’ll find a spectacular frozen crater lake.
The breathtaking landscapes make all the effort worth it!
eastern shelter of Sabalan
✔ Shelter at 3,600 meters – Basic but useful for acclimatization.
✔ Camping – Best near Shabil Hot Springs.
✔ Hotels in Ardabil & Meshginshahr – For those preferring comfort.
🚗 From Ardabil: 90 km drive (2 hours) to Shabil village.
✈ By Air: Flights from Tehran to Ardabil Airport (ADU).
🚌 By Bus: Tehran to Meshginshahr (6-7 hours), then taxi to Shabil.
✔ Check the weather before your trek.
✔ Trek with a group or hire a guide.
✔ Acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.
✔ Pack enough water, food, and warm clothing.
sabalan eagle statue, the famous symbol of Sabalan
✅ Follow Leave No Trace principles.
✅ Respect local communities and wildlife.
✅ Use eco-friendly gear and avoid plastic waste.
The best time to climb is June to September, when the weather is most stable.
No special permits are required for general trekking, but hiring a guide is recommended.
Yes, especially the Northeast Route, which is considered the easiest.
Yes, hotels in Ardabil and Meshginshahr, as well as camping near Shabil Hot Springs.
Its frozen crater lake, healing hot springs, and spiritual significance make it a special destination.
mount Sabalan lake
Mount Sabalan is an incredible destination for nature lovers, trekkers, and cultural enthusiasts. From its breathtaking crater lake to its rich history and vibrant local communities, this mountain offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself with a climb, soak in hot springs, or explore the nomadic lifestyle, Sabalan has something for everyone.
If you love adventure and stunning landscapes, Mount Sabalan should be on your bucket list!
🌍 Mount Sabalan Trekking Guide offers an unforgettable adventure in Iran’s stunning landscapes. Plan your journey today!
Before talking about Zard kooh lets see where it is located at, in a major scope.
Iran has two main large mountain ranges Alborz and Zagros, Alborz includes the most higher peaks of the land and stands as a east-west strip at north, but Zagros mountains have a different profile and shape, a much more vast north-west to south-east mountain range that covers the whole west part of the country, any way as you can even see in the SP Alborz mountains are the most known and introduced. That’s probably because Alborz range is near the capital Tehran and under the Caspian shore, where more people, climbers and tourists travel.
The Zagros mountains are the major mountain system of western Iran. They consist of high parallel ranges with sheer rugged peaks, separated by steep canyons and gorges. Several summits rise to over 14,000 feet, the highest being Dena(sub-range)->Ghash-e-Mastan peak (14,920 ft./ 4548m) *.
Heavy snow falls in Winter and remains on the higher summits for much of the year. One of the most spectacular areas of the Zagros is the area surrounding the headstreams of the Karun River and its tributaries. Here, the rivers tumble through rocky gorges, sheer mountain walls towering above them. Also of interest, in the center of the range, are the numerous salt domes, some rising up to 5,000 feet.