Best Hiking Trails Around the World in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

1. Terkh White Lake Trail

A scenic hike to a picturesque turquoise lake with stunning views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.

Volcanic Landscape: The trail offers a unique opportunity to explore an active volcano, Khorgo.
Turquoise Lake: Terkh White Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Mongolia and provides a serene environment for wildlife sightings.
Accessibility: The trail is easily accessible from Ulaanbaatar, making it an ideal weekend getaway.

A challenging hike to the top of Khugnu Khan Mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding steppe.

Steppe Views: The summit offers breathtaking views of the Mongolian steppe and nearby mountains.
Historical Sites: Along the trail, you'll find ruins from the Manchu-led Qing dynasty.
Wildlife Encounters: Keep an eye out for wildlife like marmots and eagles during your hike.

A popular park known for its stunning landscapes, rock formations, and nomadic culture.

Nomadic Culture: Experience the traditional Mongolian lifestyle by staying with a local nomadic family.
Turtle Rock: Visit the famous Turtle Rock formation, which resembles a turtle when viewed from afar.
Genghis Khan Statue Complex: Marvel at the world's largest equestrian statue dedicated to Genghis Khan.

A protected area with diverse landscapes, including forests, mountains, and grasslands.

Ulaan Bataar's closest national park: Bogd Khan Uul National Park is the closest national park to Ulaanbaatar, making it a convenient day trip.
Buddhist Temples: Visit the famous Buddhist temples located within the park, such as Amarbayasgalant and Manjushri.
Wildlife Sanctuary: The park serves as a sanctuary for rare species like snow leopards and argali sheep.

A relaxing hike to natural hot springs nestled in a serene valley.

Hot Springs: Relax and soak in the rejuvenating mineral-rich waters of Tsenkher Hot Springs.
Wild Taiga Forest: Hike through a dense taiga forest filled with spruce, pine, and birch trees.
Horseback Riding Opportunities: Experience Mongolia's nomadic culture by taking a horseback ride through the scenic valley.

A protected area dedicated to the conservation of Mongolia's last wild horse herd.

Wild Przewalski Horses: View the critically endangered Przewalski horses in their natural habitat.
Mountain Landscapes: Enjoy the beautiful mountainous landscapes and grasslands within the park.
Steppes and Forests: Explore various ecosystems, including steppes and forests, throughout the park.

A vast desert landscape with unique rock formations, dinosaur fossils, and nomadic communities.

Dinosaur Fossils: Discover fossils from various dinosaur species in the park.
Flamingo Lake: Visit the Flamingo Lake, home to thousands of greater flamingos during the summer months.
Yolyn Am Gorge: Hike through Yolyn Am Gorge, a breathtaking ice canyon formed by glacial meltwater.

A pristine alpine landscape in the Altai Mountains, home to some of the world's highest peaks.

Highest Peak in Mongolia: Climb the highest peak in Mongolia, Huiten Uul, which stands at over 4,374 meters (14,350 feet).
Alpine Lakes: Explore the numerous crystal-clear alpine lakes nestled among the mountains.
Glaciers and Snowfields: Witness the stunning glaciers and snowfields in this remote and unspoiled wilderness.

A vast steppe landscape dotted with hills, forests, and pristine lakes.

Wildlife Observation: Observe the rich wildlife, including argali sheep, snow leopards, and Siberian ibex.
Hiking Trails: Choose from a variety of hiking trails that cater to different levels of difficulty.
Lakes and Rivers: Enjoy the scenic beauty of the park's many lakes and rivers, such as Lake Uuri and the Tuul River.

A stunning series of sand dunes, some reaching heights of over 200 meters (656 feet), in the Gobi Desert.

Camel Safari: Explore the dunes on a traditional Mongolian camel safari.
Dune Climbing: Climb the majestic sand dunes for breathtaking views of the surrounding desert.
Desert Flora and Fauna: Discover the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this arid environment.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and ancient monuments.

Waterfalls: Visit the magnificent Ulaan Tsutgalan Waterfall, one of Mongolia's most impressive waterfalls.
Historical Monuments: Discover the ancient nomadic capital Karakorum and the monumental complex of Erdene Zuu.
Volcanic Landscapes: Wander through the unique volcanic landscapes of the Orkhon Valley.

A scenic hike to Delgerek Lake, known for its striking turquoise color.

Turquoise Lake: Experience the stunning beauty of Delgerek Lake, with its vibrant turquoise waters.
Birdwatching Opportunities: Delgerek Lake is a popular destination for birdwatchers due to the diverse avian species found there.
Wild Taiga Forest: Traverse through the dense taiga forest that surrounds Delgerek Lake.

A challenging hike along the Taimen River, known for its abundant fish and beautiful landscapes.

Fishwatching Opportunities: Observe the rare and elusive Taimen fish in their natural habitat.
Wild Taiga Forest: Explore the dense taiga forest that lines the banks of the Taimen River.
River Crossings: Prepare for several river crossings along the trail, adding to the adventure.

A hike to one of Mongolia's most impressive waterfalls, offering stunning views and opportunities for photography.

Waterfall Views: Marvel at the breathtaking views of Ulaan Tsutgalan Waterfall.
Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning photos of the waterfall and its surrounding landscapes.
Hiking Trails: Choose from various hiking trails that cater to different levels of difficulty.

A trail through the 'Flaming Cliffs,' famous for its dinosaur fossils and stunning landscapes.

Dinosaur Fossils: Explore the site where some of the most significant dinosaur fossils have been discovered.
Red Sands and Cliffs: Traverse through the unique red sandstone cliffs and dunes that make up Bayanzag.
Sunrise or Sunset Viewing: Plan your hike to witness a breathtaking sunrise or sunset over the flaming cliffs.