Ashkak Canyon

Ashkak Canyon (also spelled "Ashkaak") is one of the lesser-known and newly opened canyons in Qazvin Province, located on the border between Qazvin and Gilan provinces. It has recently attracted the attention of nature tourism and canyoning enthusiasts, and thanks to its unique geographical setting, it offers a different kind of canyoning experience.

Ashkak Canyon is roughly 1.5 kilometres long, with an elevation difference of about 350 metres between its start and its end. The canyon contains many small and large waterfalls, and descending its 14 waterfalls requires specialist canyoning equipment and technical descending gear. The tallest waterfall on the route is a little over 30 metres high and cannot be passed without proper safety equipment.

The best time to enter Ashkak Canyon is during Ordibehesht and early Khordad (roughly late April to early June), when the water volume creates ideal conditions for canyoning. After this period, the river that feeds the canyon may dry up, leaving stagnant water and reducing the quality of the route. For this reason, a visit to the canyon should be planned carefully and according to seasonal conditions.