Bash Goynuk – Gashgachay

Bash Goynuk – Gumukh – Gashgachay: 11.6 km, +606m/-271m (E → W)

This route takes you from Bash Layisgi to Gashgachay via a combination of paved roads, forested paths, and open dirt tracks. The initial stretch requires walking along an asphalt road towards the hamlet of Gumukh, though you can opt for a marshrutka to shorten this section. From Gumukh, the trail enters a forested dirt path, following a clear and straightforward route into Gashgachay. The section between Gumukh and Gashgachay has been marked by the Azerbaijan Tourism Board.

Trail conditions

This section consists of asphalt road between Bash Goynuk and Gumukh, dirt road through the village leading to the dirt trail through the forest, eroding roads, and open fields.

The section between Gumukh and Gashgachay has been officially marked by the Azerbaijan Tourism Board. Other parts of the route are not marked but remain straightforward.

Water

You can find water sources in villages before entering the forest, and in Gashgachay, There is a spring along the route in the forest, marked on the CalTopo map. 

Trail access 

On the eastern side, Bash Layisqi and Gumukh are accessible by road. You can walk, take a taxi, or hop on a mrshrutka to get closer to the trail. 

On the western side, Gashgachay is also accessible by road. The village has a market, a teahouse, and a restaurant with overnight cottages a bit further up. 

Trail amenities

Food & lodging in Bash Layisgi:

• You will find a few seasonal restaurants along the road in Bash Layisgi.
• No known guesthouses in Bash Layisgi; hikers should plan to stay in Bash Goynuk if overnight accommodation is needed.

Food & lodging in Gashgachay:

• Market & teahouse in the village center.
• Ayi Deresi is a restaurant with overnight cottages available in Armudlu, a few kilometers further up from Gashgachay.

Camping Option:

• There is a grassy field behind Gashgachay, just at the base of the Gashgachay – Ilisu trek, with a river flowing just below. A small creek is accessible via a left-side path for water refills.
• You may also find the flat forested areas along the route ideal for camping.