Mount Maden
If you’re looking for a challenging but rewarding mountaineering experience, look no further than the Mount Maden. Located between the Fırat and Dicle rivers in southeastern Turkey, this range stretches for about 50 km in a north-south direction and covers an area of approximately 40 square kilometers.
The Maden Mountains are characterized by an asymmetrical profile, with their highest peaks located on the northwestern side. The highest point in the range is found on Akdağ, which stands at 2230 meters. However, as you move eastwards, the mountains gradually decrease in elevation. Keyil Dağı, for instance, stands at 2052 meters, while Runik Dağı and Rute Dağı stand at 2007 meters and 1824 meters respectively.
Maden Mountains: A Mountaineer’s Paradise
The northern slopes of the Maden Mountains are separated from the Behrimaz Basin by a fault line. The fault line runs from the north of Çüngüş district to the Yarımca plain, leaving its most distinct marks south of the Behrimaz Basin. Behind this fault line lies a plateau surface that ranges from 1550-1600 meters in some areas. However, because of its fragmented nature, it is not easily recognizable on the topography.
Despite this, the Mount Maden still present an excellent challenge for mountaineers. The range has a relative elevation difference of over 700 meters between the peaks over 2000 meters high and the Behrimaz Basin, resulting in an average slope gradient of 15%. By contrast, the southern slopes of the Maden Mountains have an average slope gradient of 5%, making it easy to reach the southeastern Anatolian plains over a distance of 25 km.
In terms of geology, the Maden Mountains are composed of the Middle Eocene-aged “Maden melange.” This complex rock formation consists of volcanic rocks such as basalt, basaltic andesite, and tuff, as well as sedimentary rocks such as siltstone, mudstone, limestone, and conglomerate.
The Mount Maden is not just a challenging mountaineering destination; they are also a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The range is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including oak trees, junipers, wild goats, wolves, foxes, and eagles. Moreover, the Maden Mountains’ proximity to the Dicle Valley and the Yaylim Mountains to the east make it an ideal location for extended hiking and trekking trips.
In conclusion, the Maden Mountains are an excellent destination for mountaineers and nature lovers alike. With its challenging terrain, stunning views, and diverse wildlife, this range is a paradise for those seeking adventure in the great outdoors. So pack your bags, put on your hiking boots, and get ready to explore the Maden Mountains!
The mountain of the mountains, Mount Ararat may also interest you. Please click to read.
