Karasu-Aras Mountains
If you’re a mountaineering enthusiast seeking new and challenging terrain to conquer, you might want to set your sights on Karasu-Aras Mountains. Located in the Eastern Anatolia region of Turkey, this mountain range boasts of two separate ridges that stretch between the Aras-Karasu and Murad Rivers. The Aras Mountains, which are the highest peaks in Eastern Anatolia and Turkey, are clustered in this mountain range.
The first ridge of the Karasu-Aras Mountains is located north of the Karasu-Aras Valley and starts suddenly with steep slopes, reaching heights of 2500-3000 meters. The ridge is made up of mountains such as Keşiş Dağı, Kop, Çuruk, and Kargapazarı, which are all covered with broad plateaus. North of these mountains lies the inner part of the North Anatolian Mountains.
Karasu-Aras Mountains: The Backbone of Eastern Anatolia
The second ridge forms mountains known for their high altitudes. The second ridge, located between the Karasu and Aras Rivers, includes Büyük Ağrı (5165 m), Küçük Ağrı (3925 m), Tendürek (3542 m), Aladağ (3256 m), Nalbant Dağı (2960 m), Sakaltutan Dağı (3070 m), Bingöl Dağları (3650 m), Çakmakdağı (3040 m), Palandöken Dağı (3142 m), Şahvelet Dağı (3100 m), Turnagöl Dağı (2750 m), Şakşak Dağı (3150 m), Cemal Dağı (3008 m), Mercan Dağları (3449 m), and Munzur Dağı (3138 m).
These two ridges make up the backbone of Eastern Anatolia and are the highest points of the Anatolian plateau. The Karasu-Aras Mountains are barren and devoid of forests, but some areas have oak groves. The dominant vegetation in the area is mountain steppes and mountain meadows, which are essential for livestock grazing.
The Karasu-Aras Mountains offer a unique mountaineering experience, with their rugged terrain and lack of vegetation. While the steep slopes of the mountains can be a challenge for hikers, the expansive plateaus offer excellent opportunities for camping and taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
The highest peak in Turkey, Mount Ararat, is located in the Karasu-Aras Mountains and is one of the most sought-after climbing destinations in the world. The climb to the summit of Mount Ararat is not an easy feat, but the breathtaking views and sense of accomplishment that come with conquering this peak make it a popular destination for mountaineers.
In addition, the Karasu-Aras Mountains offer a wealth of other mountaineering opportunities, with peaks of varying difficulty levels and stunning landscapes to explore. Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer looking for a new challenge or a beginner seeking a thrilling adventure, the Karasu-Aras Mountains are an excellent destination to consider.
You may also want to learn about Turkey’s highest mountain, Mount Ararat. Please click on the link to read more about majestic Mount Ararat.
