It's difficult to put this route into words. From the first kilometers until the finish, it felt like one long reminder of why we love exploring trails.
We completed the route as an unsupported effort, carrying everything we needed from start to finish and receiving no outside assistance along the way.
The trail begins after a military checkpoint and immediately opens up into a spectacular landscape. The highest point of the route is reached at approximately kilometer 10. The summit area is covered with black volcanic rock that often looks like shattered glass, leaving no doubt about the geological history of the terrain beneath your feet.
Beyond the summit, the scenery continues to evolve. The terrain changes constantly, and every turn reveals something different. The views below are among the most impressive we have experienced anywhere in Türkiye. Even when looking down at the ground rather than the horizon, the volcanic character of the area is impossible to ignore.
The route combines beautiful running with continuously changing terrain, making it engaging from beginning to end. It feels like a natural playground built specifically for trail runners. While many sections can be accessed by vehicle, experiencing this landscape on foot provides an entirely different appreciation of its scale and character.
Navigation was straightforward with a GPX track, allowing us to focus on the surroundings and simply enjoy the experience. What stood out most was how much variety the route offered over such a relatively short distance.
As the day progressed, the heat became an increasingly significant factor. The final kilometers turned into a battle against rising temperatures, yet even then it was hard to imagine the adventure coming to an end. Despite the conditions, the overwhelming feeling was that we wanted the experience to continue.
The area is also known for a high likelihood of bear encounters. We stayed close together and made regular noise throughout the effort as a precaution. Anyone attempting this route should be aware of local wildlife and plan accordingly.
In the end, what will stay with us is not the time on the watch, but the landscape itself. Volcanic terrain, constantly changing views, and an environment that feels almost unreal at times make this one of the most memorable routes we have ever run. We would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a unique trail experience in Türkiye.