Mount Dedegöl Rock Climbing | Eldere Kuzukulağı Plateau Basecamp & Routes
Mount Dedegöl: A Hidden Gem for Climbers
Tucked away in the Western Taurus Mountains, Mount Dedegöl (2,998m) is one of Turkey’s best-kept secrets for rock climbers. Boasting world-class limestone walls, long multi-pitch lines, and an untouched, silent atmosphere, Mount Dedegöl easily competes with the top climbing destinations worldwide.
World-renowned climber and route developer Michel Piola ranks Mount Dedegöl among the five best climbing areas on the planet, alongside Verdon Gorge (France), Taghia (Morocco), and El Potrero Chico (Mexico).
An encounter with Michel Piola. Sharing a frame with one of the legendary figures who shaped the world of climbing was truly a special memory. Michel Piola continues to inspire us to chase our dreams.
Location and Access
Mount Dedegöl lies in the Mediterranean region of Turkey, stretching across the Aksu and Yenişarbademli districts of Isparta province, within Kızıldağ National Park. It neighbors Beyşehir Lake and is surrounded by beautiful cedar and juniper forests.
Access is straightforward: once you reach Aksu, a dirt road leads you up to the Eldere Kuzukulağı Plateau, where most climbers set up their basecamp.
Basecamp: Eldere Kuzukulağı Plateau
The Eldere Kuzukulağı Plateau is hands down the best spot for setting up camp during your Mount Dedegöl mission.
- Wide, flat fields ideal for tents.
- Close to natural water sources and shady forest patches.
- Nights can get cold due to high elevation — bring a solid sleeping bag and proper layering.
Note: Melikler Plateau, though known, is too far from the climbing walls and not recommended for camp logistics.
The Climbing: Routes to Get Psyched About
Must-Climb Routes:
- The Odyssey — 7a, 250m, Multi-pitch (classic Michel Piola line)
- Lost Arête — 6c, 30m, Sport Climbing
- Super Dedegöl — 8b+, 35m, Sport Climbing
- Kurt Yolu — 5c-6a, 230m, Traditional (Trad) Multi-pitch
- Vira Vira — 5b-5c, 180m, Traditional Climbing
- Via Lunatic — 6b+, 120m, Multi-pitch
- Middle East Express (Orta Doğu Ekspresi) — 7c, 30m, Sport Climbing
- Black Stallion — 7b, 35m, Sport Climbing
- Tangent — 6b+, 30m, Sport Climbing
Rock Type and Style
- Technical face climbing dominates most routes.
- Solid limestone with excellent friction and pocket holds.
- Expect plenty of balance moves and footwork-focused sequences.
- Heads up: some less-traveled routes might have loose rock — always stay alert!
Best Climbing Season
- Spring (April-May): Cool temps, dry rock.
- Fall (September-October): Stable conditions and low crowds.
- Avoid midday climbing during the summer — it can get scorching.
Nature Ethics and National Park Rules
Since Mount Dedegöl lies inside Kızıldağ National Park, it’s crucial to minimize your impact:
- Pack out all trash.
- No campfires allowed.
- Always check for seasonal forest access restrictions during summer.
Guided Climbing & Basecamp Services
At Eldere Kuzukulağı Plateau, we offer full-service logistics for climbers:
- Basecamp setup assistance
- Route recommendations based on your experience level
- Gear and logistics consulting
- Tailored guided climbing tours for individuals and groups
Get in touch for more info and bookings!
Mount Dedegöl isn’t just another crag — it’s a wild, unforgettable journey into one of the finest limestone playgrounds in the world. Whether you’re looking for hard sport climbs, dreamy multi-pitch adventures, or simply a raw connection with nature, Mount Dedegöl has it all.
Pack your gear, rally your crew, and come experience Mount Dedegöl’s magic!
