23 Children Hike to the Restricted Area of Mount Amulsar with a Group of Mountaineers

The 4 Peaks Alpine Club organized a hike to Amulsar with a group of children from its youth mountain club. This information was shared on the club's Facebook page.

“Our mountain ascents and care for nature led us to decide to climb Mount Amulsar. The goal of this ascent was not only to conquer the peak but also to convey our message that we want the mountain to remain a mountain. We had planned the ascent for September 30 and accomplished it on October 6. We set off with 23 young mountaineers and a team of 7 adults, starting our journey from the gates of Syunik. Although there was wind starting from an altitude of 2500m, it did not hinder us.

Autumn had already gilded the mountains, and we were climbing the mountain surrounded by the natural beauty akin to gold. As we ascended, the contours of the surrounding mountains became visible with their ravines, sloping hills, and shadows of clouds, prompting us to stop and take photos. At the base of the mountain, we discussed the issues surrounding the mountain with the children, as environmental protection is our primary concern. Through classes and waste collection initiatives, we always aim to raise awareness about environmental issues.

Besides speaking, we also listened to the children's opinions, which we will address later through a video. After overcoming the sloping hills and reaching an altitude of 2950m, we could only see the peak from that point. It appeared as a rocky mass with a tripod placed at its highest point. Unfortunately, when we looked at the beautiful peak, it was marred by the already altered 'nature' visible in the background due to mining activities—earth masses, roads built for work, and metal shacks far away... However, the peak was more powerful, and we reached our goal: Mount Amulsar (2988m).

Less than ten minutes later, security personnel approached us and urged us to descend. A person who contacted us via phone even insisted that we not take photos, as he was sure images would appear on the internet. We were told we were in a restricted area and many other things that we will not address here. However, we want to emphasize that when we asked the personnel and the caller to specify the boundaries of the restricted area, as we encountered no signs or fences during our ascent, they were unable to specify the limits. Of course, we took photos at the peak, declared Mount Amulsar a mountain, and then began our descent. Waiting for us below were two police officers, with whom we returned to Yerevan after an explanatory session, feeling satisfied, happy, and hopeful that Mount Amulsar will remain a mountain.

It is also important to note the amazement and helplessness of the 'security' personnel when they discovered children on the peak, the same reaction was observed from the police officers. Thank you to the children and parents for being so wonderful and caring, both towards nature and the club's staff,” is written on the page.