Blog related to Nature Tourism
How to Properly Adjust a Mountaineering and Hiking Backpack to Fit Your Body
Measure your torso length
To measure this key dimension accurately, you will need a friend and a precise measuring tape.
Tilt your head forward so you can feel the bony bump where your shoulders meet your neck. This bone is your seventh cervical vertebra (C7), and it marks the top of your torso length.
Place your hands on either side of your body, below your rib cage and on top of your hip bones (the iliac crest). Point your index fingers forward and your thumbs backward, then imagine a line between your thumbs. The point where this line crosses your back is the lower end of your torso measurement.
Stand straight and ask your friend to measure the distance between the C7 point and the imaginary line between your thumbs. This measurement is your torso length.
Use your torso length to find your backpack size
Torso size ranges vary between backpack brands, so always check the size chart for the backpack you are considering. Also keep in mind that home measurements are less accurate, so you can usually only tell whether a backpack fits once you try it on.
Measure your hip size (waist circumference)
It is uncommon for your torso length to match a backpack's size while its hip belt does not fit, but it is still important to check your hip size. You will be carrying most of the weight of your backpack on your hips, so a suitable, well-fitting belt is essential.
To measure your hip size, wrap your hands around your waist (as in the picture above). This imaginary line sits slightly above your trouser belt line, so a backpack hip belt size is slightly different from a trouser waist size.
How do we adjust the torso length?
Although there are many types of backpacks on the market, backpacks with an adjustable suspension allow the pack to fit a wide range of torso lengths. Different brands use different systems, but most of them are easy to understand. If you choose a backpack with this feature, torso length is the first and most important factor in fitting the pack to your body.
If other parts of the backpack do not sit well on your body or do not fit, check your torso length and measure it again. Note that the adjustable straps and bands of a backpack cannot make up for an adjustable system that has been set up incorrectly. If you have trouble with your backpack, take it to the store and ask the staff for help.
Adjust your backpack yourself at home
Your new backpack has several straps that can be adjusted depending on the type of pack and the weight of the load. Some of the strongest muscles in the body are in the thighs. The goal, therefore, is to adjust the straps so that most of the weight of the pack rests on your hips.
In general, a backpack has 4 main adjustable straps:
1. The hip belt
2. The shoulder straps
3. The load-lifter straps
4. The sternum strap
To begin, put a load of roughly 7 kilograms in the backpack to simulate a full pack. Before you start, loosen all the adjustable straps very slowly.
In general, a backpack has two types of adjustable parts:
1. Primary parts: the shoulder straps and the hip belt
2. Secondary parts: the load-lifter straps and the sternum strap
Also, because adjusting the straps is a dynamic process, experienced climbers constantly fiddle with their pack straps and reduce the pressure on their bodies by changing the pressure points of the straps.
Step one: the hip belt
● Put the backpack on your shoulders. Move the hip belt until its soft pads sit over your hip bones (the iliac crest). If the pads sit too low or too high, loosen or tighten the shoulder straps so that the belt moves lower or higher.
● Tighten the belt buckle to make the belt snug. Be careful not to over-tighten it; the belt should be comfortable and secure and should not irritate your body tissue.
● Check the padded sections of the belt and make sure they sit exactly over your hip bones. If they do not, readjust the shoulder straps and the hip belt. Keep moving the belt until you find the comfortable position you are looking for.
● The padded part of the belt should wrap around to the front of your hip bone. You also need at least 1 centimetre of free space on each side of the central buckle. If you find you have less space, contact the store and ask for a smaller belt.
2. Step two: the shoulder straps
● Pull the ends of the shoulder straps down and back to tighten them.
● The shoulder straps should hug your shoulders closely, but note that they should not carry too much weight. Otherwise, by putting too much load on the shoulder straps, you place extra strain on your shoulder, neck and upper back muscles.
● Check that the anchor points of the shoulder straps sit about 2 to 3 centimeters below the top of your shoulders (roughly over the broad part of your shoulder blades). If they don't, either your pack's hip belt is in the wrong place or the torso length of the pack doesn't suit your body.
● Loosen and tighten the pack straps to test how the pressure falls on different areas of your shoulders. Learn how to adjust the shoulder straps in small, gradual increments so that you can avoid any pain or pressure while climbing or hiking.
3. Step Three: Load-Lifter Straps
● Load-lifter straps connect the tops of the shoulder straps to anchor points near the top of the back panel. When weight is placed on your body, these straps pull back at an angle of about 45 degrees to your body.
● Do not overtighten the load-lifter straps! This pull may feel pleasant at first, but it can damage your shoulder joints and cause discomfort. Always aim to feel comfortable with the pack straps, not tight and irritated. If you notice a gap at the top of your shoulder straps, loosen the load-lifter straps.
4. Step Four: Sternum Strap
● Adjust the sternum strap until it finally sits at a suitable height on your chest. It should sit about 1 centimeter below your collarbone.
● Tighten and loosen the sternum strap until the shoulder straps are at a suitable width and your arms can move freely.
● Avoid the common mistake of overtightening the sternum strap. Doing so throws off the overall balance of the straps, squeezes your chest muscles and restricts your breathing.
Adjust your backpack along the trail too
After about 16 kilometers of hiking, the flawless fit you achieved at home becomes a distant memory. Note that even a perfect, well-suited adjustment needs attention along the trail.
When packing your backpack and getting ready for the trip, check all the straps again and make sure they are completely in order.
At home, try to remember what your chosen backpack settings look like so you can be sure you can restore them whenever you want.
While hiking and climbing, keep changing the settings of the straps and different parts of the backpack, and in this way reduce pain, pressure and discomfort in different parts of your body.
A very common way to reduce pain from the backpack load is to tighten the shoulder straps and loosen the hip belt. Then, after a while, do the opposite.
Pay attention to your posture; leaning forward slightly can make the weight of the backpack feel lighter.
Whenever you stop for a rest, take your backpack off. This gives your back a break, and you can take a deep breath as you stretch your muscles.
10 Essentials to Bring on Any Trip into the Wild
Carrying the "10 Essentials" on any kind of trip, even a bike ride, can be a good habit. It's true that on an ordinary trip you may only need a few of them, but when something goes wrong, you will be grateful to have these items, which are essential for survival.
The original list of the 10 Essentials was compiled in 1930 by The Mountaineers, an organization based in Seattle for climbers and nature explorers that helped people prepare for emergencies in the outdoors. At that time, the list included a map, a compass, sunglasses and sunscreen, extra clothing, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, a fire starter, matches, a knife and extra food.
Over the years, however, the list has moved away from individual items toward more of a systems approach. Below, we take a look at the items in the new version of the list:
1- Navigation: map, compass, altimeter, GPS device, personal locator beacon or satellite messenger
2- Headlamp/flashlight plus extra batteries
3- Sun protection: sunglasses, sun-protective clothing and sunscreen
4- First aid: foot-care supplies and insect repellent (if needed)
5- Knife plus a gear repair kit
6- Fire: matches, lighter, firestarter or stove
7- Shelter: carried at all times (for example, an emergency bivouac tent)
8- Extra food: more than the minimum you expect to need
9- Extra water: more than the minimum you expect to need
10- Extra clothing: more than the minimum you expect to need
The individual items from each category depend on the trip you are taking. For example, on a short day hike where navigation isn't especially difficult, you might take a compass, a map and a personal locator beacon but leave the altimeter at home. On longer, more complex trips, on the other hand, you might take everything to help you navigate. When deciding what to bring, consider factors such as the weather, the difficulty of the trip, its length and how far you will be from help.
If you would like more information about each of the 10 Essentials, stay with us until the end of the article.
1- Navigation
Navigation tools for travelling in pristine and remote areas include five items: a map, a compass, an altimeter, a GPS device and a personal locator beacon (PLB). We look at each of them in more detail below:
Map: On every trip, except short ones where getting lost is impossible, you should carry a topographic map.
Compass: If you get lost in a remote area, a compass combined with map-reading skills is a vital tool for finding the right way. Many mobile phones, GPS devices and smartwatches also include an electronic compass, but it is better to use a standard compass, because its very low weight and the fact that it needs no batteries make it an essential backup device.
Note: In an emergency, a compass with a mirror can help you reflect sunlight so that helicopters or rescuers can find you.
GPS device: A GPS device lets you find your exact location on a digital map. GPS units designed specifically for remote trips are usually built to be rugged and waterproof. Another popular option is to use a GPS app on your mobile phone, but keep in mind that most phones are fragile and you will need a case or pouch to protect them. In any case, whichever you choose, remember that these devices run on batteries, so you need to manage how much you use them and perhaps carry a few spare batteries.
Altimeter watch: Carrying this navigation tool is especially important. It uses a barometric sensor to measure air pressure, or it uses GPS data to make an accurate estimate of your elevation. This information helps you follow the right route and determine your position on the map.
Personal locator beacon or satellite messenger: If you need help in a remote area, these devices let you alert emergency personnel. When you activate them in an emergency, they determine your exact location and send a message via commercial or government satellites. If things go badly, carrying a personal locator beacon or satellite messenger can be a great help. They work especially well in remote areas and in places where your mobile phone cannot get a signal.
2- Headlamp/flashlight
Being able to find your way along backcountry trails at night is essential, so you should always carry a light source. Headlamps are the best option and are chosen by most backcountry travellers. With a headlamp your hands are free, which makes any activity, from cooking dinner to holding tent poles, much easier. Be sure to always carry a few spare batteries too.
3- Sun protection
You should always wear and carry sunglasses, protective clothing and sunscreen. Failing to do so can cause sunburn or short-term snow blindness, and in the long term conditions such as premature skin aging, skin cancer and cataracts.
Sunglasses: Wearing high-quality sunglasses is essential to protect your eyes from harmful rays. If you plan to go on a long trip across snow or ice, you will need very dark glasses designed for snowy terrain. All the sunglasses sold in the Dobisell online store block 100 percent of ultraviolet rays (UVA and UVB), which is the key feature of quality sunglasses. UVB rays, which can burn your skin, can also cause cataracts. People travelling in a group should carry at least one spare pair of glasses, because someone may lose theirs or may not have brought any at all.
Sunscreen: When you spend long hours outdoors, your skin is exposed to ultraviolet radiation, which can cause damage such as sunburn, premature skin aging and cancer. Using sunscreen is strongly recommended to reduce the effects of UV rays. Health experts advise considering the following when choosing a sunscreen:
The formula's sun protection factor (SPF) should be at least 15, although for long activities outdoors it should be 30.
The formula should block both UVA and UVB rays.
Apply sunscreen generously and spread it thoroughly over all skin exposed to the sun. Snow and water can reflect UV rays, so when applying sunscreen, don't forget areas such as under your chin and your nose. Depending on many factors (such as the time of day, sweat and others), you should reapply sunscreen every two hours.
Sun-protective clothing: Wearing suitable clothing is a very good way to stop UV rays from reaching your skin without needing sunscreen (don't forget that you still need to apply sunscreen to the parts of your skin exposed to sunlight, such as your face, neck and hands). Many lightweight garments have an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating, which indicates how effective they are against UVB and UVA rays. Wide-brimmed hats are an important item of clothing for protecting your skin from the sun.
4- First aid
Carrying first aid supplies and knowing how to use them is vital. Pre-assembled first aid kits make things much easier, although many people customize them to their personal needs. Every kit should include blister treatments, adhesive bandages in various sizes, several gauze pads, adhesive tape, antiseptic ointment, over-the-counter pain relievers, nitrile gloves, and a pen and paper.
The length of your trip and the number of people in your group affect what your first aid kit should contain. It is also a good idea to carry a compact guide to using medical supplies in emergencies.
5- Knife
A knife is useful for repairing gear, preparing food, first aid, lighting fires and other essential needs, and is one of the most important items for any trip. Every adult in the group should carry a knife.
A basic knife may have only a single folding blade, but more advanced knives and multi-tools may include one or two flathead screwdrivers, a bottle opener or folding scissors. The more complex your needs are (for example, if you are heading to a new, unfamiliar place), the more tools you will need on your knife or multi-tool.
In addition to a knife, a gear repair kit may also come in handy in remote areas and harsh conditions (the more remote the area you are in, the more you will need these items). Common items include duct tape, cord, fabric adhesive, zip ties, safety pins and repair parts for water filters, buckles, snowshoes and skis.
6- Fire
In an emergency, you should have the means to build a fire with you. Many people use a disposable butane lighter for this, but matches are also a very good option as long as they are waterproof or kept in a waterproof container. Note that paper matchbooks are often very thin and fragile and are not suitable for use in the outdoors.
A fire starter, as its name suggests, helps you light a fire, and carrying one is essential in wet conditions. An ideal fire starter ignites quickly and keeps burning for more than a few seconds. Your options include dry tinder packed in a plastic bag, candles, putty, heat tabs (shredded wood soaked in resin) and even bits of lint from household dryers.
For trips such as travelling in treeless or snowy areas where firewood is not available, a stove is a good idea for providing emergency heat and a source of water.
7- Emergency shelter
Always carry some kind of emergency shelter so that, if you get stranded or injured on the trail, you can protect yourself from wind and rain. Your options include an ultralight tarp, a bivy sack, an emergency blanket (which is very small and weighs only a few grams) or even a large garbage bag. Note that your tent counts as an emergency shelter only if you always have it with you (a tent left behind at the campsite is no use).
8- Extra food
Always try to carry at least one extra day's worth of food, so that if something extends your trip (such as bad weather or an injury) you won't run into trouble. It is best to bring foods that need no cooking and have a long shelf life. Energy tablets, nuts and dried fruit are all good choices.
Note that if you are heading out on a long trip or a winter adventure, you should bring more than one extra day's worth of supplies.
9- Extra water
Always remember that carrying enough water for your trip, and having a way to purify water while you are out, is vital. This could be a filter, a purification device or chemical treatment, or a stove for melting snow. When deciding exactly how much water to bring, keep in mind that most people drink about half a litre of water per hour during activity under normal conditions. You may need more depending on factors such as air temperature, altitude, exertion level or emergency situations.
As a starting point, always carry at least one bottle or water jug. Then, at the start of your trip, fill your bottle or jug from a source of drinking water.
10- Extra clothing
The weather in remote areas can suddenly turn wet, stormy or very cold. You may also be injured during an unplanned detour. For this reason, in addition to the clothing you need for the trip itself, it is essential to carry some extra clothes.
When deciding what type of clothing you need, think about what you would need to survive in difficult conditions for a long time without moving. Common options include a base layer (top and bottom), a regular hat or a balaclava (a hat that covers the head and neck, with openings only for the nose and eyes), extra socks, extra gloves, and an insulated vest or jacket. For winter trips, also carry insulating layers to cover your torso and legs.
A Guide to Buying the Best Sunglasses for Mountaineering and Outdoor Adventures
Every kind of recreation requires equipment suited to its environment. Mountaineering is more than a pastime; it is a serious sport, and without the necessary gear the risk of accidents rises. Choosing the best mountaineering sunglasses must be done carefully and strictly, because they protect your eyes from rocks, dust, water, UV rays and more. By understanding the factors that make up the best mountaineering sunglasses, we can protect our eyes from the hazards of the mountain environment.
Choosing the right glasses for each sport is one of the most important decisions an athlete makes. A professional mountaineer knows what eye care their work demands. In this article, we look at the factors you should keep in mind when choosing suitable mountaineering glasses.
Sunglasses come in different frame styles. When buying sunglasses, we need to consider several important factors. Perhaps the most important is a frame that suits our face, and by knowing the frame styles and the geometric shape of our own face, we can make the best choice. Styles include round, butterfly, cat-eye, aviator, geometric, wayfarer (everyday), oval, square and rectangular.
Aviator glasses suit a variety of faces. Diamond-shaped faces suit oval and round frames; oval faces can wear polygonal and square frames; round faces can wear aviator and butterfly frames; and rectangular faces can wear any frame except rectangular and square ones.
1. Lens types
There are several categories of lenses:
Category 1
These offer minimal eye protection and are usually known as "fashion glasses". You may feel that wearing them is the best idea. However, you should know that they do not protect your eyes from the intense sunlight at high altitude.
Category 2
This category of sunglasses filters out 20–45% of ultraviolet rays through the lens. This category is not useful for mountaineering either. Both of these categories are generally suitable for strolling around town on a sunny afternoon.
Category 3
Category III lenses block roughly 80% of ultraviolet rays. If you go hiking, this type is very useful. However, it is not enough for mountaineering.
Category 4
Most mountaineering sunglasses usually fall into this group, letting through only 3–8% of UV rays. They also have a very low VLT rating. All of this helps protect your eyes from annoying glare and intense ultraviolet radiation, which can even burn your skin.
2. Polarization
The next important point to remember is the polarization of the lenses. If your lens is polarized, it reduces annoying glare. When climbing to high altitudes, protecting your eyes from intense sunlight is essential. Polarized lenses do not have a significant effect on your eyes. They also give you a clearer image and better vision so that you can see your surroundings sharply. However, because of the polarization, it can sometimes be difficult to spot ice and snow. Some sunglasses use special coatings. The polarization may be reduced, but other types of coatings help you see perfectly clearly. There are even photochromic (transition) lenses that adapt to the amount of sunlight. As the sunlight increases, they darken automatically. This type of lens is very popular among mountaineers.
3. Additional coatings
Additional coatings such as scratch-resistant and anti-fog layers can be very helpful at high altitude. If you search enough, you may even find sunglasses with both an anti-fog and a water-repellent coating. Together, these two coatings are the best option for humid regions.
4. Lens colour
Lenses of different colours serve different functions. Different colours provide different levels of protection for your eyes. Some are only used in specific situations, and on complex climbs you may not be able to rely on a single lens colour. For this reason, you should take great care when choosing the lens colour of your mountaineering glasses.
5. Materials
Another important factor is the material the sunglasses are made of. The material of the frame determines how long it lasts. The most common material is plastic, which is the least durable, and if you use it you must make sure your sunglasses are not put under stress. The most durable materials are alloys made from titanium or some hard metal alloys. Titanium may be a little more expensive, but it is the most durable and even the most flexible of them.
In addition, you should consider the materials the lenses are made of:
• The most common is glass. Most lenses are made of glass. Although it is scratch-resistant, it is quite likely to break.
•If you compare a polycarbonate lens with a glass lens, you will find that it is more durable. It does not break easily, but it can be scratched easily.
• Plastic is another common lens material. However, if you are looking for sunglasses for mountaineering, they are not very suitable. They cannot protect you from the strong ultraviolet rays of a high-altitude environment.
• Polyurethane is the best material for mountaineering sunglass lenses. It is very strong and scratch-resistant. It even provides excellent optics. These lenses do not need additional coatings. If you can use polyurethane-lens sunglasses, you need not worry any more. They may be expensive, but they are very durable.
6. Side coverage
When you are at high altitude, the cold wind blows from every direction. Since you will be wearing sunglasses, the area around them needs protection too. For this reason, manufacturers add side shields to mountaineering sunglasses, and these are usually removable, so you can take them off if you prefer. You can also wear protective goggles, since they cover your face completely. However, keep in mind that fogging is very likely. That is why removable shields are provided, to let air pass through. There are also a few types of sunglasses with vents that allow ventilation.
The best mountaineering sunglasses brands
Below, we briefly introduce some of the best mountaineering sunglasses brands. ... sunglasses among Iranian climbers.
A Journey into the Heart of Nature: Discover the Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Iran
With its remarkable climatic and geographical diversity, Iran is home to a treasure trove of magnificent, enchanting waterfalls scattered across its many provinces. From the lush forests of Gilan and Mazandaran to the highlands of Lorestan and Fars, and even the mountainous areas of the west, you can find the soothing sound of falling water and breathtaking scenery in every corner. Below, we take a friendly and engaging tour of Iran's most beautiful waterfalls to help you get to know these natural gems better.
● Waterfalls of Gilan Province
Gilan Province is known for its ever-green landscapes, where the Hyrcanian forests, rushing rivers and dreamlike waterfalls give the region a magical character.
▪️ Laton Waterfall
The tallest waterfall in Gilan, it lies near Astara (Kuteh Kumeh village) and reaches a height of about 105 metres. The trail to the waterfall passes through dense forests of walnut, hazelnut, wild pear and other trees. A three- to four-hour walk through nature makes for an unforgettable experience for adventure lovers.
▪️ Visadar Waterfall
This waterfall is located near the town of Rezvanshahr (Parehsar). Visadar is about 15 metres high and sits along a scenic forest trail. Its semicircular rock formation and the cool air around it have made it a popular destination in spring and summer.
▪️ Dodozan Waterfall
Located in the Shaft area near Khoramkesh village, it is about 54 metres high. Relatively easy access, dense forests all around and the chance to swim in the lower pool have made Dodozan one of the most appealing hangouts in the hot season.
● Waterfalls of Mazandaran Province
With its mountainous, forested landscape, Mazandaran reaches the peak of its beauty in spring and summer. Countless small and large waterfalls in the province's dense forests and pristine pastures will captivate every visitor.
▪️ Safarud (Javaherdeh) Waterfall
Located near the Ramsar–Javaherdeh road, it is full of water and especially spectacular in spring. The access route passes through Safarud Forest Park, and the surrounding mountain views, cool air and short walking trail are the reasons for its popularity among travellers.
▪️ Shahandasht Waterfall
About 180 metres high, it lies in the Larijan area of Amol and is considered one of the tallest waterfalls in Mazandaran. Its multi-tiered structure and its proximity to the historic Malek Bahman Castle make a visit here both a historical and a natural experience.
▪️ Tirkan Seven Waterfalls
Located in the Lafur Forest of Babol. Seven small and large waterfalls are linked together in the heart of ancient Hyrcanian forests, creating a pristine setting. A forest walk of about three kilometres, cool pools and endless greenery promise moments full of peace and delight.
● Waterfalls of Golestan Province
Golestan, also famous for its Hyrcanian forests and attractive waterfalls, enjoys pleasant weather and lush scenery in spring and summer.
▪️ Shirabad Waterfall
A series of several cascading waterfalls in the lush forests near the town of Khan Bebin and Shirabad village. Clear, cool pools make this an excellent destination for summer recreation.
▪️ Kaboodval Waterfall
Located near Aliabad-e Katul, it is considered the only completely moss-covered waterfall in Iran. The soothing sound of water trickling through the green moss gives visitors an indescribable sense of freshness and coolness.
● Waterfalls of Western Iran and the Zagros
The Zagros Range in western Iran is home to some of the country's tallest and most beautiful waterfalls.
▪️ Bisheh Waterfall (Lorestan)
One of the most famous waterfalls in Lorestan, located near Dorud. At a height of nearly 48 metres amid oak forests, it offers an unparalleled view. The nearby railway line and good facilities make it easy to reach.
▪️ Ab-e Sefid Waterfall (Lorestan)
Located in the Aligudarz area, it has earned the nickname "the Bride of Iran's Waterfalls" for its white foam. The water emerges from a tunnel inside the mountain and plunges into the pool below with a dreamlike roar.
▪️ Shevi Waterfall (Khuzestan)
Located near Dezful, it is about 85 to 100 meters high and 40 to 70 meters wide, and is considered one of the largest waterfalls in the Middle East. The combination of the mountain setting, towering trees and the thunderous roar of the water creates an enchanting, adventurous atmosphere.
● Waterfalls of Central and Southern Iran
Central Iran has more spectacular waterfalls than you might imagine, and in the south, a land of deserts and heat, you may sometimes be surprised by small but stunning waterfalls.
▪️ Ganjnameh Waterfall (Hamadan)
It lies on the slopes of Alvand in Hamadan, where the historic Achaemenid inscriptions are also found. This blend of history and nature has made the waterfall one of the most popular destinations among domestic tourists.
▪️ Margoon Waterfall (Fars)
Located near Sepidan, it holds the title of the tallest spring-fed waterfall in the world. Thousands of bubbling springs gush from the rocks and pour down like a spectacular curtain of water.
▪️ Kamardoogh Waterfall (Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad)
It is known as the "bride of the waterfalls of Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad." It is full of water in every season, and its height has been reported to be as much as 100 meters. The surrounding mountain landscape offers visitors a setting full of silence and tranquility.
Final Tips and Summary
Iran's waterfalls, each with its own unique beauty and distinctive features, are hidden gems in the heart of the country's nature. The forests of the north, the mountains of the west and center, and even the southern and desert regions all have wonders of their own. Spring and summer are a good time to travel to these places, enjoy the coolness of the waterfalls, take photographs and escape the bustle of daily life with the soothing sound of falling water.If you love adventure, you can hike longer forest trails to reach lesser-known waterfalls. If you prefer easy access, waterfalls beside the road or near cities are a good choice. Some of these areas also have full amenities and are well suited to family picnics and camping. All you need to do is plan, pack the essentials and set off on an unforgettable trip; Iran is a land that is always happy to host you!
The Best Places for Nature Travel in Iran in Every Season
Iran has some of the most varied landscapes in the world, from the dense forests of the north to the quiet deserts and snow-covered mountains. But what really makes a trip enjoyable is choosing the right destination in the right season. In this guide, we look at the best nature travel destinations in Iran for each season, so you know exactly where to go and what kind of experience awaits you.
Table of Contents:
The best nature travel destinations in spring
The best nature travel destinations in summer
The best nature travel destinations in autumn
The best nature travel destinations in winter
Important tips before heading into nature
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions
The Best Nature Travel Destinations in Spring
Spring is the best time to see Iran's nature alive and green. The weather is usually mild, and everywhere is full of flowers and freshness. In this season, many parts of the country are at their very best, and you can head for the most attractive spring nature destinations.
Alimestan Forest
Alimestan Forest is located near Amol and is one of the most famous spring forests in Iran. With its misty views and lush green trails, it is very popular among nature lovers. Its vegetation includes hornbeam and beech trees and forest shrubs, and species such as wild boar, foxes and forest birds can be seen there. The combination of mist, green trees and the silence of the forest creates a completely peaceful atmosphere.
Kalpush Poppy Plain
This plain lies on the border between Semnan and Golestan provinces, and in spring it turns into a natural red carpet of wild poppies. Its vegetation mostly consists of rangeland plants and seasonal flowers, and small animals such as hares and plains birds can be seen there. This area is one of the most distinctive spring landscapes in Iran for photography.
Why is spring the best time for nature travel?Because the weather is mild, nature is at its greenest, and hiking routes are usually in their best condition.
The Best Nature Travel Destinations in Summer
Summer is the best time to escape the heat and head to cooler areas. In this season, many of Iran's mountain and summer-pasture regions become the best destinations for travel and nature trips.
Dar Gorge
Dar Gorge is one of the most distinctive and exciting summer destinations in northern Iran, located near Nowshahr.It is a narrow gorge with tall rock walls and a cool river flowing along its length. Its vegetation includes dense trees, mosses and moisture-loving plants, and forest birds and small animals can be seen around it.The experience of wading through cool water between tall, shaded walls makes Dar Gorge a completely different summer destination: a place where you get to touch nature and escape the summer heat at the same time.
Subatan Summer Pasture
Subatan is one of the most beautiful summer pastures in northern Iran, located in the highlands of Talesh. Its vegetation includes wide meadows, wildflowers and scattered forests. Livestock such as horses and cattle graze in the open pastures, and mountain birds are among the wildlife in the area. The weather in Subatan is pleasantly cool in summer, and the combination of mist, green meadows and wooden huts creates a dreamlike atmosphere.
Gahar Lake
Gahar Lake lies in the heart of the Oshtorankuh range and is known as the “Jewel of the Zagros.” The surroundings are covered with mountain plants and oak trees, and species such as chukar partridge, wild goat and ibex can be seen in the area. The clear water of the lake beside the mountains creates a very calm and beautiful scene.
Why is summer good for nature travel?Because you can go to cool mountain and summer-pasture areas and enjoy nature and pleasant weather without dealing with extreme heat.
The Best Nature Travel Destinations in Autumn
Autumn is the season of colors, when nature is at its most beautiful. At this time of year, many of Iran's forests and natural areas are transformed into extraordinary and distinctive landscapes.
Dohezar and Sehezar Forests
These forests lie in the highlands of Tonekabon and are among the best autumn destinations in Iran. The vegetation includes beech, maple and oak trees, which turn yellow, orange and red in autumn. Together with these colors, the autumn mist creates a completely cinematic atmosphere.
Golestan National Park
Golestan National Park is one of the oldest protected areas in Iran. The area has great plant and animal diversity, and species such as red deer, leopards and wild boar live there. In autumn, the blend of colors and the morning mist make this area truly special.
Why is autumn a good time for nature travel?Because the weather is cool and pleasant, nature is at its most colorful, and thanks to the smaller crowds, you get a calmer and more enjoyable nature trip.
Best Winter Destinations for Nature Travel
Winter offers a different and distinctive kind of nature travel experience, and it suits adventure lovers best. In this season, some parts of Iran take on a completely different look and become attractive destinations for winter trips.
Maranjab Desert
Maranjab Desert lies north of Aran and Bidgol and is one of the most famous deserts in Iran. Its vegetation is very sparse and consists of drought-resistant plants, and animals such as the sand fox live there. In winter, the desert weather becomes very pleasant, and its night sky is spectacular.
Lar Plain
Lar Plain lies on the slopes of Damavand and is completely covered in snow in winter. The area has mountain vegetation, and species such as partridges and foxes can be seen there. The silence and whiteness of the plain create a calm and unusual atmosphere.
Why is winter a good time for nature travel?Because it gives you the chance to experience true silence and peace in nature, and it puts completely different scenery in front of you: snowy mountains and quiet deserts.
Important Tips Before Going on a Nature Trip
Before any nature trip, it is best to keep a few simple but important points in mind. First of all, check the weather so that you are not caught off guard by bad conditions. Then bring essential gear such as suitable footwear, layered clothing, enough water and light snacks. Finally, choose your destination to suit the season and your physical fitness, so that the trip is both safe and more enjoyable.
Conclusion
Iran's nature has a different and distinctive face in every season. From lush spring forests to quiet winter deserts, every time of year can offer you a different experience. If you choose your destination to suit the season, your trip will be both more enjoyable and safer. Ultimately, the best time to travel is when nature is at its best.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best season for nature travel in Iran?
Spring and autumn usually offer the best conditions, but every season has its own special destinations.
2. Where should we go for a summer trip?
Summer pastures and mountain areas such as Subatan and Lake Gahar are the best options.
3. Is a trip to the desert suitable in winter?
Yes, winter is the best time for desert travel because the weather is milder.
4. Which forests in Iran are best for a trip?
Alimestan Forest, the Dohezar and Sehezar forests, and Golestan Forest are among the best options.