Qezqaleh Canyon

Qezqaleh Canyon (also known as Qezqaleh Gorge) is one of the natural attractions of Gorgan County in Golestan Province, located on the slopes of the Toskestan forests. This little-known canyon lies just 5 kilometres from the city of Gorgan, in the Jelin area. Access is via the Gorgan–Mashhad road, followed by a forest trail to the canyon entrance. It is an appealing area for nature tourism and canyoneering, offering visitors varied landscapes and pristine nature.

The canyon has sloping sections, several rocky waterfalls and a variety of rappels ranging from 8 to about 45 metres, the tallest of which is roughly 45 metres high. The winding route passes through oak, beech, hornbeam and yew trees. It begins with a forest walk of 15 to 20 minutes to reach the canyon entrance, and the route through the canyon itself covers about 3 kilometres, which takes roughly three to four hours. This experience suits intermediate canyoneering enthusiasts with moderate safety equipment, and along the way it offers superb views of the Toskestan forest landscape. The river flowing through the heart of the canyon forms small waterfalls and natural pools, making it a good place to stop, rest and swim in the heat of summer.

To get there, first drive from Gorgan toward Jelin, then enter the Toskestan forest road, park your vehicle at the designated spot and walk through the forest for about 15–20 minutes to reach the canyon entrance. The best time to visit is spring and summer (especially late Tir or Mordad), when the route is more stable and the water flow is suitable, but safety equipment is essential for the rappels. Responsible nature tourism, such as not damaging plants and keeping the area clean, is strongly recommended.