Aim: The purpose of this research is to evaluate and measure the geotourism potential of geosites in Garmsar County in order to identify capacities, prioritize geosites, and contribute to the sustainable development of tourism and the local economy.
Material & Method: This research is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-analytical in terms of method. The required data were collected through library studies, field visits, direct observation, recording geomorphological features, and completing evaluation forms based on the indicators of the Feuillet and M-GAM models. The selected geosites, including Naft Darreh Cave, Dragon Mountain, and Tangeh-e-Jalamat, were evaluated and ranked based on indicators such as scientific value, visual appeal, rarity, accessibility, protection, complementary values, tourism services, and usability.
Finding: The findings of the Feuillet model showed that the Naft Darreh Cave geosite ranked first with a total score of 30.95 and had a more favorable status than other geosites in terms of scientific value, tourism rate, accessibility, and management conditions. This was followed by Dragon Mountain with a score of 30.77 and the Darkness Gorge with a score of 15.62. The results of the M-GAM model also confirmed the relative superiority of the Naft Darreh Cave; this geosite achieved the highest geotourism potential with a score of 9.98, followed by Dragon Mountain (9.25) and Darkness Gorge (8.25).
Conclusion: The results of the research showed that Garmsar County has adequate geotourism potential, but optimal utilization of this capacity requires the development of tourism infrastructure, improved accessibility, promotion of welfare services, strengthening destination management, and protection of geosites.
Innovation: The innovation of the present study is in the simultaneous use of the Feuillet and M-GAM models for the comparative evaluation of geosites in Garmsar County and providing a scientific framework for prioritizing geotourism development.