The climbing route to Kemerli Kaçkar Mountain, located in the Çamlıhemşin district of Rize, Türkiye.
Significance of the Peak
This peak is one of the 5 main summits of the Kaçkar range, which runs parallel to the Black Sea coast in northeastern Türkiye. It is a significant and popular destination for Turkish mountaineering. Because its technical level is relatively low and it offers an easy climb, it is often a top choice for beginners starting out in mountaineering.
Specific Start Point & Ascent Details
- Start Point: The climb begins from Avusor Plateau, which is accessible via the Ayder Plateau in the Çamlıhemşin district of Rize province. There is a well-paved concrete road leading close to the plateau.
- Base Camp: From the plateau, a 45-minute hike leads to a glacial lake at the foot of the summit. The shore of this lake serves as the main base camp.
- The Route: The climb begins by following a stream bed rising along the south of the lake.
- Duration & Elevation: Camping is not strictly mandatory; it is possible to start from the plateau, summit, and return to the plateau on the same day. The climb takes an average of 5 hours, with an elevation gain of 1,200 meters.
Summit Description
Along the trail to the summit, small stone cairns (duck markers) guide the way. At the very top, there is a sign placed by the Turkish Mountaineering Federation.
Permit Requirements
Climbing the mountain does not require an official permit. However, informing the gendarmerie (jandarma) about the time of the ascent and how many days it will take is very helpful in the event of an accident. Please note that if you climb without notifying them and a rescue is triggered by mistake, a fine may be issued.
Helpful Information
- Difficulty Level: The route has a beginner-friendly difficulty level.
- Terrain: For a large portion of the climb, there is scree made of loose, shifting rocks, and the rock structure is loose/rotten (çürük).
- Weather & Season: Because the region has a rainy climate, weather conditions must be closely monitored, as it rains most of the year. The primary climbing season is August and September.
