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MOUNTAINEERING
Turkey
presents mountains lovers with an incredible variety of
interesting climbing opportunities that are sure to satisfy
the most demanding hikers, climbers, and winter sports fans.
In Turkey, mountains come in all sizes, geo-morphological
and tectonic structures and boast abundant wildlife and
forests teeming with diverse flora and fauna. Every year
thousands of tourists from all over the world come to Turkey
for winter sports (especially skiing), mountains climbing
and hiking.
A glance at a
topographical map of Turkey immediately reveals that this is
a country of mountains. Rising in all four directions,
mountains encircle the peninsula of Anatolia. A part of the
Alpine-Himalayan mountain range, Turkey has mountainous
regions of different geological formations. The North
Anatolian range skirts the Mediterranean shore.
Turkey's
magnificent mountains and forests are mostly undeveloped,
existing as wonderful natural preserves for an extraordinary
variety of wildlife, flora and fauna. Two of Turkey's most
famous peaks are volcanoes, both inactive, Mt. Erciyes in
Kayseri in Central Anatolia (3917 m) and Mt. Agri (Mt.
Ararat 5137 m) in the East. Other well-known mountain ranges
are the Rize-Ka‡kar (3932 m) in the Eastern Black Sea region,
Nigde-Aladag (3756 m) in the Central Taurus range, and the
Cilo and Sat Mountains (4136 m) near Hakkari in the Eastern
Taurus.
The mountainous
nature of the country has influenced its cultural evolution.
For centuries, nomads and semi-nomadic peoples have migrated
annually to the fresh pastures of the higher elevations in
the summer. These alpine meadows, called yayla, still
represent a firm tie to traditional culture.
For climbers and
those interested in mountain geography, Turkey offers a
wealth of exploration. Glaciers, volcanoes, and peculiar
geological formations such as kars prove irresistible to
researchers and students of geology. The challenging terrain
offers great opportunities for aficionados of outdoor sports
who find interesting experiences on the mountains of Eastern,
Central and Southern Turkey. A list of resources to aid an
expedition, at whatever level, is to be found below.
Rising from the
common borders of Turkey and Iran, Mt. Agri (Ararat), an
inactive volcano capped year round with ice and snow,
reaches 5137 meters. The Old Testament records that it was
on this mountain that Noah's Ark came to rest after the
great flood. Southwest of the mountain, the Little Mt. Adri
(Ararat) reaches up to 3896 meters. The Serdarbulak lava
plateau (2600 m) stretches out between the two pinnacles.
Whatever your motivation for visiting this region and
exploring the mountain range, climbing the spectacular Agri
(Ararat) is a challenging and rewarding experience.
In the summer,
the weather in the area and on Mt. Agri (Ararat) itself is
sunny, warm and dry. However, in the winter and spring, cold
and harsh conditions prevail, and mountain climbers
occasionally face blizzards and turbulent weather. July,
August and September are the months when most world mountain
climbers come to the area and when the climb up Agri
(Ararat) is most enjoyable. Despite the usual sunny and
clear weather at that time of year, high altitude mountain
weather prevails above 3000 meters. The Southern face of the
mountain offers the easiest and safest ascent to the summit
with the best routes and communication, transportation and
safety considerations. It is not advised to climb Mt. Adri
(Ararat) alone and without a guide.
Getting
There
The
Trabzon-Erzurum-Teheran international transit highway, an
excellent asphalt road, skirts the Western and Southern
flanks of Agri (Ararat) before heading into Iran.
Dogubayazit, 270 km from Erzurum, and nearby Igdir, the two
closest towns to the mountain, are situated on this route.
Daily planes, trains, and buses connect Erzurum with Ankara.
The
Plan of Great Agri Mountain-Mt. Ararat
Couple pics from Agri Mountain-Mt.Ararat
Regional
Attractions
The area
surrounding Agri (Ararat) has retained its natural beauty
and the local population still engages in the traditional
lifestyle. During the summer months, whole villages move to
the yayla, the summer pasture, to find fresh grazing for
their herds of sheep, goats, cattle and horses. Women
continue to weave carpets and kilims in time-honored
designs; Ortulu village is particularly renowned as a center
of beautiful handicrafts. Other nearby tourist attractions
include the Ishakpasa Palace, a fabulous 18th century castle
of a local potentate, and a meteor crater near the Iranian
border.
The Cilo-Sat
Mountains, within the Southeastern Hakkari province, are the
Eastern extension of the Toros (Taurus) mountain chain,
which stretches from West to East along Turkey's Southern
boundaries. This range of mountains in fact forms the
Westernmost section of the Himalayan mountain belt. At 4136
meters, the Uludoruk (Resko) summit is the highest in the
Cilo mountains; Catalkaya (Samdi), which rises to 3794
meters, crowns the Sat mountains. Resembling the Alps in
both general appearance and glacier topography, the Cilo-Sat
mountains are the areas in Turkey most affected by glaciers.
The high altitudes of the mountains testify to the effects
of glacial formation and water erosion. Of the ten uniquely
shaped glaciers, the largest, Izbirak, measures five
kilometers in length, 500-600 meters in width and reaches
100 meters in depth.
A wide arid
expanse stretches across the Southern bases of the mountain
range. The highlands, in contrast, receive plentiful
precipitation during the winter months. In between crests
and summits, green and fertile valleys dotted with rural
settlements, enjoy a temperate climate that makes them ideal
for vine and fruit agriculture.
Above the low
valleys, alpine meadows blanket the mountain slopes at
altitudes between 2000 and 3100 meters. Herds of domestic
animals, which graze in these pastures, make up the primary
economic activity of the region.
Trips and
Climbs
Arduous and
elevated summits, high glaciers, glacial rivers and fast
moving streams combine to make the Cilo-Sat mountains both a
fascinating geographic and geological site of world-wide
importance. The best time for summer excursions is during
June, July, August and September. For winter climbing,
February and March are the most suitable months.
Getting
There
To reach the
Cilo-Sat mountains, travel to Van from Ankara by road, rail
or air and then follow the 245-km long highway to Hakkari.
Serpil village offers one route for an ascent of Uludoruk;
another route Westside of Cilo, is Dezkoy.
The Plan of The Cilo-Sat Mountain
Couple pics from The Cilo-Sat Mountain
Regional
Attractions
A vast yayla
culture has evolved on the Cilo and Sat mountains, and the
summer migration of the colorfully clad local population to
the high grazing pastures is a wonderful sight. Mountain
glaciers, swiftly running rivers brimming with fish and
beautiful glacier lakes are a few of the area's natural
wonders.
In the rainy and
lush landscapes of Northeastern Turkey, the Kackar mountains
form the Northern section of the Anatolian mountain chain.
The Kackar-Kavron summit, at an altitude of 3932 meters, is
the highest point in the range. Extensive glacier and water
erosion have given these mountains their craggy, rugged
look, and they are known for the complexity and power of the
streams and rivers which rush down to the lower altitudes.
In fact, this range is the third most important glacial
region in Turkey following the Agri (Ararat) and Cilo-Sat
mountains. The geological and mountaineering aspects of the
Kackars contribute to their importance in Turkey's economy
and tourism.
The region
enjoys an almost sub-tropical climate of temperate yet rainy
weather with an average temperature of 14 C. The lowest
temperature, 7C., falls in the month of January while August
sees the hottest days reaching a maximum recorded
temperature of 22.6 C.
The Kackars rise
between the shores of the Black Sea to the North and the
Coruh river valley to the South. On the Northern flank, an
immense variety of vegetation flourishes in the rainy
climate. Up to 500 meters above sea level, tea plantations
and citrus orchards cover the hillsides. Chestnut, hornbeam,
beech and other large-leafed trees forest the slopes to 750
meters. Between 750- 1500 meters of elevation, pines mix in
with the large-leafed trees until gradually they remain the
only species of tree from 1500-2000 meters. Alpine meadows
and other grassy vegetation cover the ground above 2100
meters. On the Southern faces of the Kackars, which receive
strong sunshine and less precipitation, the agriculture is
based on the cultivation of fruit and vines. On the Northern
side, in the higher elevations, meadows of wild flowers and
grasses blanket the slopes up to elevations of 2300 meters.
Trips and
Climbs
The Altiparmak,
Kavron and Varsamba mountains are the principal peaks of the
Kackars. Both the North and South faces of the Altiparmak
and Kavron can be scaled but Varsamba should only be
attempted from the North face. It is imperative to use a
local guide when climbing the Kackars.
The Plan of The Kackar Mountains in Rize
The Plan of The Kackar Mountains (Kavrun Group)
Couple pics from The Kackar Mountains
The Toros (Taurus)
Mountains are the Westernmost branches of the great mountain
chain that stretches across all of Asia - the Himalayan
mountain belt. The Turkish section of this massive mountain
range follows the Southern border of Anatolia and is itself
made up of four major sections, the Western, Central,
Southern and South-eastern (Taurus) Toros ranges. The
highest peaks rise out of the Central and Southeastern
branches, a stretch of mountains, which are rugged,
magnificent and arduous to climb.
The Toros
Ala Mountains
Forming part of
the Central (Taurus) Toros range, the Ala range runs from
the Southwest to the Northeast for approximately 50
kilometers and boasts the region's highest peak, Demirkazik
that stretches to 3756 meters. Other high summits include
Kizilkaya in the center (3725 m), a peak that reaches 3688
meters in the South, and Mt. Vayvay in the East (3565 m).
This long range, situated in the provinces of Nigde, Kayseri
and Adana, rises between Lake Ecemis and the Zamanti river.
The geology of
the area is responsible for the interesting rock formations
and waterfalls. The erosion of limestone has created a
fascinating karstic topography and hydrography, especially
in the Yedigoller valley, where karstic underground rivers
and caverns collect the surface water. Both the
Mediterranean and Anatolian weather systems influence the
climate of the Ala Mountains, bringing warm summers and cool
winters to the area.
Trips and
climbs
The best season
to climb the mountains is during May, June, July and August
when the alpine meadows of the higher elevations are rich in
vegetation.
Researchers and
mountaineers ascending the Ala Mountains usually begin their
climb from either Camardi or Cukurbag village. Those
attempting to climb the Demirkazik summit depart from
Demirkazik village. Both of these villages lie 65 km from
Nigde and can be reached by asphalt road.
The plan of The Taurus-Ala Mountains
Couple Pictures of The Taurus-Ala Mountains
Regional
attractions
The yaylas of
the Toros (Taurus) Ala Mountains are the summer homes of
entire villages and the summer grazing of herds of animals.
Be sure to see the rounding up of all the animals for
milking. Traditionally women of these encampments have
produced some of Turkey's most beautiful carpets and kilims,
and it is often possible to see a carpet still in progress.
One of Turkey's
most important mountaineering and winter sports centers,
Mount Erciyes rises from the South of the Kayseri valley.
The Sultan Marshes lie to its West and to the South falls
the Develi Valley. Its summit is always covered in snow and
ice, Mt. Erciyes ranks as central Anatolia's tallest
volcano.
Approximately 18
kilometers in diameter and covering an area of 1000 square
kilometers, the mountain's stratification and geology make
it a fascinating geographical formation. The region's
climate, influenced by that of the Anatolian plateau, is
considered typical of steppe geography. Certainly the winter
brings considerable snowfall to the higher elevations. The
northern side of the mountain enjoys a somewhat more
temperate climate encouraging the cultivation of vast areas
of vine and fruit orchards between 1100 and 1600 meters.
Above that altitude, vast meadows stretch far into the
distance. The higher elevations display typical alpine
vegetation. Herds of animals graze year round on the East,
North and West slopes of the mountain.
Trips and
Climbs
Mountaineers
attempt Mt. Erciyes either on the Northwestern flank or from
the South and find the best climbing in June, July, August,
and September.
The plan of The Mount Erciyes
Couple Pictures of The Mount Erciyes
Regional
Attractions
Tourists
visiting the area should also see the fantastic rock
formations, underground cities and fabulous frescoes in rock
carved churches in neighboring Cappadocia. The Sultan
Marshes, a habitat for many different species of birds, has
fortunately been designated a national park and wildlife
preserve.
Turkey can in
fact, boast of two peaks called Nemrut. The one near
Adiyaman in the Southeast is primarily of historical and
archaeological interest, home for over 2000 years to the
colossal stone heads of King Antiochos I and a number of
classical deities. The other Mt. Nemrut in Eastern Anatolia
is well known for its geological formations, and for
mountaineering purposes; the more interesting of the two
peaks.
An extinct
volcano, the Tatvan Mt. Nemrut ascends to 3050 m. It is
located within the province of Bitlis, rising from the
South-western shore of Lake Van and entering the district of
Ahlat to the North. Mt. Nemrut is the Southernmost and
youngest of the chain of volcanoes in Eastern Anatolia. A
stereotype volcano, it began erupting during the fourth
geological era and continued to be active until 1441 A.D. As
a result of the volcanic eruptions of Mt. Nemrut the single
Van-Mus river basin was divided into two separate basins.
Trips and
Climbs
Treks up Mt.
Nemrut begin on the mountain's Southeastern flank at Tatvan.
Climbers reach the South or Southeastern side of the crater
after an easy hike of 4-5 hours. Those who reach this point
have the rare chance to see the wondrous crater of this
inactive volcano. For those who find the climb up the crater
too strenuous, four-wheel drive vehicles can reach the
summit from either Ahlat or Tatvan.
Mt. Nemrut is
bare of vegetation except in the South, which has groves of
oak and birch trees. Summer (June-September) is the best
season for expeditions up Mt. Nemrut. Hikers who climb to
the crater and summit from the Southeast or Eastern face of
the mountain are rewarded with wonderful views of Lake Van.
Süphan Mountain,
a magnificent dormant volcano rises from the Northwest
shores of Lake Van.
Throughout the
winter, snowfalls on Süphan reach a depth of three to four
meters. The mountain's steeply inclined slopes and snow
blanket combine to make it a good location for "Heli-skiing"
- using helicopters to drop you off on the slopes for an
adventure of high mountain skiing.
Trips and
Climbs
The easily
accessible Southern and Eastern flanks of Süphan, both
offering spectacular views, are the preferred faces for
ascending the mountain.
To climb from
the Eastern flank take the coast road that circles Lake Van.
In the stretch between Adilcevaz and Ercis, turn North to
Aydinlar village. From there you continue on to Kicgilli
village where you can hire a guide to lead you in your
ascent.
The climb from
the South begins at the village of Harmantepe.
The Western
branch of the Toros (Taurus) mountains, the Bey Mountain
range, is located in the province of Antalya. The crest of
the range parallels the North- South line of the Western
shore of the Gulf of Antalya. With altitudes ranging between
600 and 3086 meters, these mountains offer geologists and
geographers many peculiar morphological characteristics.
Tekedorugu, Bakirlidag, Tahtalidag and Kizlarsivrisi summits
are particularly remarkable.
The highest
point in the mountains is Mt. Kizlarsivrisi (3086m), and
climbers reach it through the cedar forested Camcukuru
valley. The best approach to the valley is by road inland
from Antalya to Elmali. Antalya, of course, can be reached
from Izmir, Istanbul and Ankara by land, air and sea routes.
Tahtali
mountain, West of Kemer, offers another interesting ascent.
Rising to an elevation of 2360 meters, pine and deciduous
forests cover the slopes up to an altitude of 2000-m. Bare
meadow stretch to the summit.
The climb up Mt.
Tahtali begins at Sogukpinar, a short drive from Kemer. From
there a combination of walking and climbing brings you to a
place to make camp. The final ascent is carried out on the
flank facing the coast and offers a spectacular and
ever-changing view.
Although it is
possible to organize trips to the Bey Mountains all year
round; April, May, and June offer both a temperate climate
and a chance to experience the richest vegetation.
Continuing the
line of summits in a Southeasterly direction, the Bolkar
Mountains are bounded by the Goksu river to the West and the
Pozanti river to the East. The Northern parts of the
mountain lie in Nigde province while the Southern peaks rise
in Mersin province.
These mountains
exhibit interesting geological characteristics. Made of
sedimentary material such as limestone and dolomites, the
range reveals excellent examples of nappes, or folds in the
layers of rocks. There are vast formations of karst as well
as landscapes that reveal the effects of glacier and water
erosion. Despite this erosion, no real water network has
developed on the mountains. Because of the sedimentary
nature of the rocks, water is absorbed creating large areas
of karst, such as Pozanti and Sekerpinari.
The highest
peaks of the Bolkar are: Medetsiz (3524 m), Kesifdagi (3475
m), Koyunasagi (3426 m), Tahtakaya (3372 m) and Egerkaya
(3347 m).
The Northern
flank receives the most exposure to snow and glacier
formation; it is nevertheless the best route for an ascent
to the highest summits of the Bolkar.
The Northeastern
extension of the Central Toros (Taurus) range, the Mercan
range, straddles both the Tunceli and Erzincan provinces. Mt.
Akbaba, at 3462 meters, is the highest summit in the
Mercandagi range. The limestone geology of these mountains
creates their very rugged profile.
Erzincan, a
major city North of the mountain ranges and accessible by
air, rail and road, is the base from which to attempt an
ascent on the North face.
Those wishing to
climb the mountain from the South begin their trek at Ovacik
in the middle of the Munzur mountains. Climbers entering
from this point can reach the highest summits of the Munzur.
Ovacik lies 70 kilometers from Erzincan and is accessible by
a road which follows the banks of the Munzur valley. The
Munzur River, which rushes through a national park, tempts
tourists with superb fresh fish and beautiful mountain
scenery.
Useful
Information and Resources on Mountain Tourism and Sport
Ministry of
Tourism, Tourist Information Office
İsmet İnönü Bulv. No 5, Ankara
Tel: (312) 212 8300 / Ext.2207
Fax: (312) 213 6887
General
Directorate of Youth and Sports
(Mountaineering Federation)
Ulus, Ankara
Tel: (312) 310 1578
Fax: (312) 310 1578
General
Directorate of Youth and Sports
(Skiing Federation)
Ulus, Ankara
Tel: (312) 311 0764
Fax: (312) 311 0764
Mountaineeing and Skiing Clubs
Atatürk
University, Department of Sports Mountaineering and Skiing
Branch, Erzurum.
Ankara
University, Department of Sports Mountaineering Branch,
Ankara
Hacettepe
University, Mountaineering, Skiing and Outdoor Sports Club,
Ankara
Middle East
Technical University (ODTU), Department of Sports
Mountaineering and Skiing Branch, Ankara
Erciyes
University, Department of Sports Mountaineering and Skiing
Branch, Kayseri
Robert
College (Bodazici University) Mountaineering Club, Bebek,
Istanbul.
Yıldız
University, Department of Sports Mountaineering Branch,
Yıldız, Istanbul
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