MOUNTAINEERING
A glance at a topographical map of
Turkey reveals that this is a country of mountains.
Rising from all four directions, mountains encircle the peninsula of
Anatolia. A part of the Alpine-Himalayan
Mountain range,
Turkey has mountainous regions
with 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 wild life,
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 mountain ranges are the
Rize Kackar (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 moved yearly to the fresh pastures of the higher elevations
in the summer. These alpine meadows, called "yayla", house
nomadic people whose traditional culture is still preserved.
For climbers and those interested in the
geography of mountains, Turkey
offers a wealth of exploration. Glaciers, volcanoes, and peculiar geological
formations such as karst prove irresistible to researchers and students of the
geology. The challenging terrain offers opportunities to aficionados of outdoor
sports, who find the most interesting experiences on
the mountains of eastern,
central and southern
Turkey.
There are many skiing resorts in
Turkey as well.
THE GREAT MOUNT OF AGRI (ARARAT) (5137m)
Standing
the nearby cities of Agri and Igdir, at the borders of
Turkey and Iran, Mount Agri is an inactive volcano capped year
round with ice and snow and rises to 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 Mount Agri (Ararat) reaches up to 3896
meters; the Serdarbulak lava plateau (2600 m) stretches out between the two
pinnacles. Climbing the spectacular Agri is a challenging and rewarding
experience.
In the summer, the weather in the area and on Mount Agri 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. Climbing up Agri is most enjoyable during
this period. However, despite the usual sunny and clear weather at that time of
year, high altitude mountain weather swirls around above 3000 meters. The
southern side of the mountain offers the easiest and safest climb to the summit.
With this route one has access to the best route communication and
transportation facilities and it is safe. It is not recommended to climb Mount Agri alone and without a guide.
The Trabzon - Erzurum - Iran International Transit Highway,
an asphalt road skirts the western and southern flanks of Agri before leading
into Iran. Dogubeyazit, 270 km from Erzurum and nearby
Igdir, the two closest
towns to the mountain, are located on this route. Planes, trains, and buses
connect Erzurum with Ankara.
The area surrounding Agri has retained its natural beauty.
The local population still engages in a traditional life styles. In the summer
months the villagers move to the "yayla", the summer pastures, to find fresh
grazing for their herds of sheep, goats, cattle and horses. Women continue to
weave carpets and kilims in time honored designs; Village of Ortulu is
particularly renowned as a center of beautiful handicrafts. Other nearby
tourist
attractions include the Ishakpasha Palace, a fabulous 18th century castle of a
local potentate, and the meteor hole near the Iranian border.
Mount Agri (Ararat) became 35th
National Park of Turkey with
the decision of the Parliament on 1st of November, 2004.
THE CILO-SAT MOUNTAIN RANGE (4136m)
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. The mountain
range forms the western section of the Himalayan mountain belt. At 4136 meters,
the Uludoruk summit is the highest in the Cilo mountains; Catalkaya (Samdi),
which rises to 3794 meters crowns the Sat mountains.
Resembling the Alps both in 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 differently shaped glaciers, the
largest, Izbirak, measures five kilometers in length, 500-600 meters in width.
It reaches up to 100 meters in depth.
A wide arid expanse stretches across the southern base of the
mountain range. The highlands, in contrast, receive plentiful precipitation
during the winter months. In between crests and summits, fertile green valleys
dotted with rural settlements, enjoy a temperate climate that makes them ideal
for wine and fruit agriculture.
Above the low valleys, alpine meadows blanket the mountain
slopes at altitudes between 2000 and 3100 meters. Herds of domestic
animals, the
raising of which makes up the primary economic activity of the
region, graze on
these pastures.
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 worldwide importance and a
national park of spectacular beauty. The best time for summer excursions is
during June, July, August and September. For winter climbing February and March
are the most suitable months.
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.
A vast plateau, "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 memorable event. Mountain glaciers and swiftly
running rivers alive with fish and beautiful glacier lakes are a few of the
area's natural wonders.
THE KACKAR MOUNTAINS
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, 7
C., fall in the month of January while August sees the hottest days reaching a
maximum recorded temperature of 22.6 C.
The Kackars rise in between the shores of the Black Sea to
the north and the River Coruh valley to the south. On the northern flank, a good
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
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 covers
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 fruits and vines. As on the north side in the higher elevations,
meadows of wild flowers and grass blanket the slopes up to 2300 meters.
The Altiparmak, Kavron, 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 TOROS (TAURUS) MOUNTAINS
The Toros Mountains are the western most branch 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 it is made up of four major sections, the Western, Central,
Southern and Southeastern Toros ranges. The highest peaks rises out of the
Central and Southeastern branches, a stretch of mountains which are rugged,
magnificent and arduous to climb.
THE TOROS ALADAGLAR MOUNTAINS
Forming part of the Central Toros range, the Aladaglar range
runs from the southwest to the northeast for approximately 50 kilometers. It is
between 25 and 30 kilometers wide and boasts the region's highest peak, Demirkazik which stretches to 3756 meters. Other high summits include Kizilkaya
in the center (3725 m), a peak that reaches 3688 meters in the south and
Mount Vayvay in the East (3565m). The long range is situated in the provinces of
Nigde and Adana and rises between Lake Ecemis and the Zamanti river.
The geological formation 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 Aladaglar bringing warm summers and cool winters to the mountains.
The best season to climb the mountains is during June, July
and August when the alpine meadows of higher elevations are rich in
vegetation.
Researchers and mountaineers ascending the Aladaglar usually
begin their climb from either Camardi or Cukurbag villages. Those attempting to
climb the Demirkazik summit depart from Demirkazik village. Both of these
village lie 65 km from Nigde and can be reached by an asphalt road.
The plateau, "yayla" of the Toros Aladag are the summer homes
of entire villages and the summer grazing of herds of animals. Be sure to see
the gathering in of all the animals for milking. Traditionally
women of these
encampment have produced some of Turkey's most beautiful
carpets and kilims, and
it is often possible to see a carpet still in progress.
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MOUNT ERCIYES (3917m)
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 always covered with 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 typical steppe. Winter brings considerable snowfall to
higher elevations. The northern side of the mountain enjoys a more temperate
climate encouraging the cultivation of vast areas of vine and fruit orchards
between 1100 and 1600 meters. Above that altitude, expanses of 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.
Mountaineers attempt Mt. Erciyes either on the northwestern
flank or from the south and find the best climbing in June, July, August and
September.
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 been fortunately designated a national park and wildlife preserve.
MOUNT NEMRUT (3050m)
In fact,
Turkey can 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 Antiochus I and classical deities. The other mount Nemrut in
in eastern Anatolia, the more interesting of the two peaks, is well known for
its geological formation and for mountaineering purposes.
An inactive volcano, Mt. Nemrut nearby Tatvan ascends to 3050
m. It is located within the process of Bitlis, rising from the southwestern
shore of Lake Van, and entering the district of Ahlat to the north. Mt. Nemrut
is the most southern and youngest of the chain of volcanoes in the
eastern Anatolia. A strato type volcano, Mt. Nemrut 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.
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 for 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 to 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 oak groves and birch trees. Summer (June - September) is the best season for
expeditions in 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.
MOUNT SUPHAN (4058m)
Mount Suphan, a magnificent
dormant volcano rises from the north-west shores of Lake Van. Throughout the winter, snow falls on Suphan reaching three to
four meters. The mountain's steep 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.
The easily accessible southern and eastern flanks of Suphan
are the preferred faces for ascending the mountain; they both offer spectacular
views. 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
engage a guide to lead you in your ascent. The climb from the south begins at the village of Harmantepe.
THE BEYDAGLARI MOUNTAINS
The western branch of the Toros (Taurus) mountains, the
Beydaglari 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. 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 peak in the mountains is Mt. Kizlarsivrisi (3086
m). Climbers reach the peak through the cedar forested Camcukuru valley. The
best way to get 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.
Mount Tahtali, 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 200 m. Bare
meadows stretch to the summit. The climb up Mt. Tahtali begins at Sogukpinar, a
short drive from Kemer. From there both walking and climbing bring you to a
place for camping. 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 Beydaglari all
year round, April, May and June offer both a temperate climate and a chance to
experience the rich vegetation in the
region.
THE BOLKAR MOUNTAINS (3524m)
Continuing the line of summits in a southeastern direction,
the Bolkar Mountains are bounded by the River Goksu to the west and the River
Pozanti to the east. The northern part of the mountains lies 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 nappies, 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 water network has
developed on the mountains. Because of the sedimentary nature of rocks, water is
absorbed underground 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 north 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 MUNZUR MOUNTAINS
The northeastern extension of the
central Toros (Taurus) range, the Munzur range straddles both the
Tunceli and
Erzincan provinces. Mt. Akbaba, at 3462 meters, is the highest summit in the
Mercandagi range. The limestone geological formation of these mountains creates
a rugged profile.
Erzincan, a major city north of the mountain range and
accessible by air, rail and road, is the base from which an ascent on the
northern face can be attempted. 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 away from Erzincan and is accessible by a road which follows the
banks of the Munzur valley. The River Munzur which rushes through a
national
park tempts tourists with fresh fish and beautiful mountain scenery.
USEFUL INFORMATION AND RESOURCES ON MOUNTAIN TOURISM AND SPORTS:
- Ministry of Tourism Tourist Information Office,
Ismet Inonu Bulvari , No 5, Ankara. Tel:(312) 212 83 00/20 70 Fax: (312) 213
68 87
- Department of Youth and Sports Turkish Mountaineering Federation, Ulus,
Ankara. Tel: (312) 310 15 78
Fax:(312) 310 15 78
- Department of Youth and Sports Turkish Skiing Federation,
Ulus, Ankara. Tel: (312) 311 07 64 Fax: (312) 311 07 64
- Union of Turkish Travel Agents,
Haberler Sokak, No:15 Esentepe, Istanbul. Tel: (212) 275 13 61 Fax: (212) 275
00 66
MOUNTAINEERING AND SKIING CLUBS:
- ATATURK 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, Department of Sports Mountaineering and
Skiing Branch, Ankara.
- ERCIYES UNIVERSITY, Department of Sports Mountaineering and Skiing Branch,
Kayseri.
- BOSPHORUS UNIVERSITY, Mountaineering Club , Bebek, Istanbul.
- YILDIZ UNIVERSITY, Department of Sports Mountaineering Branch, Yildiz,
Istanbul.
Source: Turkey.org
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