The best walks and hikes in Mongolia

Komoot offers a selection of 5 hiking routes in Mongolia, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging treks. These routes have been explored by over 150 hikers from the komoot community.

Mongolia offers incredibly diverse terrain. You can hike through the towering, snow-capped peaks of the Altai Mountains, explore the vast sand dunes and rocky canyons of the Gobi Desert, or wander through the pine forests and alpine meadows surrounding pristine Khuvsgul Lake. The central regions feature rolling hills and river valleys, while areas like Gorkhi-Terelj National Park boast dramatic rock formations.

The best time for hiking in Mongolia is generally from late May to early October. During these months, the weather is milder and more stable, making conditions ideal for exploring. However, the Gobi Desert can be very hot in mid-summer, and the Altai Mountains are best in late summer for glacier treks. Be prepared for unpredictable weather, as Mongolia can experience all four seasons in a single day.

Yes, there are options for beginners. An easy route is the Bearded Vulture Gorge – Eternal Ice in the Canyon loop from 열링암, which is 2.8 miles (4.5 km) long and takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. This trail allows you to experience the unique canyon landscapes of the Gobi Desert.

While our current selection focuses on day hikes, Mongolia is renowned for its challenging multi-day treks, especially in the remote Altai Mountains and the Eight Lakes (Naiman Nuur) region of the Khangai Mountains. These areas feature high peaks, glaciers, and require significant preparation, often involving guides and pack animals.

Many trails lead to fascinating natural features and cultural landmarks. For example, the Bearded Vulture Gorge – Eternal Ice in the Canyon loop takes you through the impressive Bearded Vulture Gorge and past the unique Eternal Ice in the Canyon. In the Khangai Mountains, you can visit Tuvkhun Monastery on routes like the Tuvkhun Monastery – Ovoo loop. Gorkhi-Terelj National Park offers dramatic rock formations like Turtle Rock, which you can explore on the Turtle Rock (Melkhii Khad) loop.

Many of Mongolia's vast landscapes offer opportunities for families to explore, especially in national parks like Gorkhi-Terelj, which is easily accessible from Ulaanbaatar. Shorter, less strenuous loops, such as the easy Bearded Vulture Gorge – Eternal Ice in the Canyon loop, are suitable for families looking for a taste of the Gobi's unique environment.

The trails in Mongolia are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 15 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the immense sense of untamed wilderness, the diverse and dramatic landscapes, and the unique cultural encounters with nomadic families. The opportunity to truly disconnect and experience vast solitude is a common highlight.

Yes, several of the routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the easy Bearded Vulture Gorge – Eternal Ice in the Canyon loop in the Gobi Desert, and the moderate Turtle Rock (Melkhii Khad) loop in Gorkhi-Terelj National Park.

Yes, Gorkhi-Terelj National Park is a popular and easily accessible destination for hiking near Ulaanbaatar. It offers a variety of trails through pine forests and past dramatic rock formations. The Panoramic view – Turtle Rock loop from Gorkhi-Terelj National Park is a moderate option within the park.

Mongolia is home to diverse wildlife. In the Khuvsgul Lake region, you might spot ibex, wolves, and Siberian moose. The Gobi Desert has unique species adapted to arid conditions, while the Altai Mountains are known for snow leopards and argali sheep. Always maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing animals in their natural habitat.