Damavand Avalanche
Information for Damavand Mountain Winter Climbs and Ski Mountaineering
- Related Topics Damavand Meteo | Damavand Difficulty | Damavand Ski Resort | Damavand Winter Alert
Mt Damavand South Route Avalanche
Update 15 May 2013There has been an avalanche on the ski trail of Damavand Iran. It happened on the south route at about 10 am Tehran local time on 15 May 2013 which has injured two German ski mountaineers. The wounded Germans have been taken by a rescue helicopter to a Fayaz Bakhsh hospital in Tehran. The latest info indicates that the injured mountaineers are not in a serious condition.
The avalanche occurred after one week of heavy snowfall in the area. This is the first reported avalanche in Ski Tour Mount Damavand zone and there has been no record of any major avalanche in this part of Damavand mountain.

Avalanche occurred on the red line from 5200m to about 4400m near the Camp3
Camp3 Bagah Sevom to the Summit Route Map
Green line for ascend from New Hut to Summit
Red line for descend or ski from Mt Damavand peak to Camp3
Damavand Avalanche
The main cause of an avalanche is the accumulation of a great amount of snow (or rock) on a steep slope angle. The classic south route of Mount Damavand Iran is well known for its mild slope angle and there is not a great risk of snow (or rock) avalanches on the south trail.Snow Avalanche
Winter Climbing
If you use the correct trails on the south ridge during Damavand winter climbing there is no risk of snow avalanche.Ski Mountaineering
The risk is very low on the southern footpaths which follows near the main ridge. Avoid unnecessary traverse during skitouring and Keep away from valleys (such as Kafar Dareh) and do not ascend/descends through gorges as much as possible.Damavand Mountain Winter Climbing
Rock Avalanche
In summer season, there is a small risk of rock avalanche and rolling stones falling rapidly down the mountain if you miss your way and end up in a valley or a gorge.
Road Avalanche
Before reaching the winter starting point (No 5 in GPS Landmark) of Mt Damavand, you may observe powerful road avalanches in the winter season with the ability to carry a large amount of snow, ice, rocks. These avalanches could close the roads or delay the traffic towards the mountain.
The Haraz main road and the Polur and Reyneh side roads which lead to Damawand Mountainand and also other small roads such as Lasem road that branches off of the Haraz main road are the common avalanche zones actually before you reach the mountain.
There are also some small rock avalanches in other seasons on the mentioned roads. These avalanches typically occur and trigger from a natural source, bypassing cars or human activities.

Skitour Damavand Iran
Photo A. Soltani
Warning
1- The classic south face of Damavand is the safest route of the mountain for winter climb, ski mountaineering, skitour, snowboard and snowshoes. Winter sport activities are more difficult, dangerous and are not recommended on the other faces.2- In any season ascends to the Damavand summit through any route is possible only in a suitable weather; otherwise it could be very tough and dangerous.
See also warning in Winter Climb.
3- Avoid any ascend/descend through the Kafar Dareh (Kafar valley/ gorge), because always there is a big risk of snow or rock avalanche there.
Footnote
When you climb from the south face, Kafar Dareh is located on your right hand side. The Icefall (5100m) of Mt Damavand is located at the top of this huge valley/gorge.See also Damavand Forecast.

Snowboarding Mt Damavand
Photo A. Soltani
Damavand Expedition Camp
Known by several names, Damavand Camp is also called the Damavand Base Camp, Damavand Camp II, or the second camp on Mount Damavand. Locals refer to it as Goosfand-Sara (گوسفند سرا ), meaning "sheepfold," or the Saheb al-Zaman Mosque (مسجد صاحب الزمان ) campsite. This location is a vital checkpoint for climbers and hikers before they make their ascent, providing basic necessities and shelter.
As the most popular and accessible starting point for Mount Damavand, this camp offers essential facilities, including a mountain refuge, the Saheb al-Zaman Mosque, and a sheepfold. Sitting at an elevation of 3,040 meters, with coordinates of Latitude 35.9020° and Longitude 52.1094°, it’s the primary base camp for climbers on the south route, especially during the summer. This camp provides an important resting and preparation spot before the climb.
Iran’s Mount Damavand: Detailed Guide to Its Facts, Figures, and Fascinating History
Iran’s Mount Damavand is more than just the tallest peak in the country—it is a natural and cultural icon. In this detailed guide, you will discover key facts, such as its height of 5,671 meters, and the geological history that makes it an active volcano. The mountain’s influence extends far beyond the natural world, with a rich cultural history rooted in Persian myths and literature. This guide delves into the historical and cultural significance of Damavand, along with important statistics about the mountain’s location, its role in outdoor sports, and its enduring allure to climbers and adventurers alike.
Best Tour Packages for Damavand, Iran
Discover the best tour packages for Damavand, Iran, tailored for adventurers seeking unforgettable experiences. These comprehensive packages include guided trekking tours and expert-led Damavand trekking and climbing tours. With private local guides, you can explore the stunning landscapes of Mount Damavand with ease and confidence. Whether you want to hike to the summit or enjoy a leisurely trek through the surrounding valleys, these packages are designed to offer the best of Damavand. Experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region, making your journey truly memorable as you conquer Iran's highest peak.
Certified International Damavand Ski Guide
Mount Damavand Ski Tour Guide: Unique Adventures in Winter. While Mount Damavand is known for its challenging climbs, it also attracts winter sports enthusiasts, particularly skiers. The mountain’s unique geographical features and snowy conditions make it an ideal destination for ski tours. Hiring a Mount Damavand ski tour guide ensures a safe and exhilarating adventure as you navigate the slopes of this iconic peak. These certified experts are well-versed in the best skiing routes, providing you with the necessary equipment, safety instructions, and guidance to make your experience both enjoyable and safe. Skiing down the pristine snow of Mount Damavand is an unforgettable experience that offers a different perspective of the mountain’s beauty, one that only a professional guide can unlock.
Known by several names, Damavand Camp is also called the Damavand Base Camp, Damavand Camp II, or the second camp on Mount Damavand. Locals refer to it as Goosfand-Sara (گوسفند سرا ), meaning "sheepfold," or the Saheb al-Zaman Mosque (مسجد صاحب الزمان ) campsite. This location is a vital checkpoint for climbers and hikers before they make their ascent, providing basic necessities and shelter.
As the most popular and accessible starting point for Mount Damavand, this camp offers essential facilities, including a mountain refuge, the Saheb al-Zaman Mosque, and a sheepfold. Sitting at an elevation of 3,040 meters, with coordinates of Latitude 35.9020° and Longitude 52.1094°, it’s the primary base camp for climbers on the south route, especially during the summer. This camp provides an important resting and preparation spot before the climb.
Iran’s Mount Damavand: Detailed Guide to Its Facts, Figures, and Fascinating History
Iran’s Mount Damavand is more than just the tallest peak in the country—it is a natural and cultural icon. In this detailed guide, you will discover key facts, such as its height of 5,671 meters, and the geological history that makes it an active volcano. The mountain’s influence extends far beyond the natural world, with a rich cultural history rooted in Persian myths and literature. This guide delves into the historical and cultural significance of Damavand, along with important statistics about the mountain’s location, its role in outdoor sports, and its enduring allure to climbers and adventurers alike.
Best Tour Packages for Damavand, Iran
Discover the best tour packages for Damavand, Iran, tailored for adventurers seeking unforgettable experiences. These comprehensive packages include guided trekking tours and expert-led Damavand trekking and climbing tours. With private local guides, you can explore the stunning landscapes of Mount Damavand with ease and confidence. Whether you want to hike to the summit or enjoy a leisurely trek through the surrounding valleys, these packages are designed to offer the best of Damavand. Experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region, making your journey truly memorable as you conquer Iran's highest peak.
Certified International Damavand Ski Guide
Mount Damavand Ski Tour Guide: Unique Adventures in Winter. While Mount Damavand is known for its challenging climbs, it also attracts winter sports enthusiasts, particularly skiers. The mountain’s unique geographical features and snowy conditions make it an ideal destination for ski tours. Hiring a Mount Damavand ski tour guide ensures a safe and exhilarating adventure as you navigate the slopes of this iconic peak. These certified experts are well-versed in the best skiing routes, providing you with the necessary equipment, safety instructions, and guidance to make your experience both enjoyable and safe. Skiing down the pristine snow of Mount Damavand is an unforgettable experience that offers a different perspective of the mountain’s beauty, one that only a professional guide can unlock.