The Varzob River runs north from Dushanbe through a narrow gorge in the Hissar Range, and a road follows it for about 30 kilometers. The gorge is the city's most accessible nature escape: cooler than the valley in summer, lined with walnut groves, and lined with Soviet-era chalets and sanatorii. On weekends, Dushanbeis pile into cars and marshrutkas to spend the day in the mountains.
The drive itself is pleasant, climbing steadily through increasingly dramatic scenery. Several teahouses and simple restaurants operate along the road, perched above the river. The upper gorge beyond the health resort area becomes wilder, and there are hiking trails into the mountains for those with time and boots. A half-day excursion from the city; a full day if you hike.