Soğanlı Mountains

The Soğanlı Mountains form a high ridge system stretching across the north of Bayburt, separating the province from Trabzon and Gümüşhane and constituting part of the North Anatolian mountain chain. Largely stripped of forest cover by the continental climate and historic degradation, the range is defined by its broad pastures and highland meadows, which make it exceptionally well suited to mountaineering, plateau tourism and long-distance hiking.

Geography & Peaks

Running from west to east, the crest rises through the Zülfe (2,750 m), Kemer (2,856 m), Soğanlı (2,750 m), Haldizen (3,000 m) and Kırklar (roughly 3,350 m) summits, while the Demirkapı Peak, regarded as the highest point in Bayburt, reaches 3,390 metres. Glacial and crater lakes such as Haldizen (Balıklı Göl) and Aygır Göl lie scattered across the ridges and, seen from the summit, can be captured in a single frame like blue beads. The area's clean air, dark skies ideal for stargazing and dramatic alpine scenery draw nature enthusiasts from distant cities such as Istanbul and Izmir.

Climbing Route & Tourism

On guided tours the classic itinerary is a demanding climb of about 10 kilometres that begins at Sarıçiçek Plateau near Üzengili village and ascends to the Demirkapı summit; these programmes are usually led by mountaineering clubs such as GÜDAK and combine trekking, camping and photography. Agencies favour the route because it offers an accessible day-trip trailhead, secure plateau parking and flexible difficulty tiers that suit both beginners and experienced climbers. Complementary stops nearby include the Kırklar Mescidi, perched at 3,200 metres on the Bayburt–Çaykara boundary, and the Derebaşı hairpin bends, voted "the world's most dangerous road," both of which slot easily into a wider plan.

Visiting, Access & Tips

Lying about 35 kilometres from the city centre, the mountains are reached by private car or tour minibus; the final stretch of the plateau road is gravel, so tour coaches are generally left at the plateau entrance and travellers transfer to smaller vehicles. Accessibility for visitors with disabilities is limited by the terrain, with scenic viewing possible only on the flat plateau meadows.

Route & Best Time

The ideal season runs from June to September, when the pastures turn green and the transhumance festivals take place; in winter the roads close under snow and the range remains open only to experienced winter mountaineers. The recommended route ascends from Sarıçiçek Plateau to the summit for lake photography and returns via the Derebaşı panorama, and an average visit fills a full day.