Best Hiking Trails in Turkey

Turkey offers a plethora of stunning hiking trails, each showcasing the country's diverse landscapes and rich history. Here’s a detailed overview of some of the best hiking trails in Turkey:

TOP 10 HIKING TRAILS IN TURKEY

Lycian Way

• Distance 540 km (336 miles)
• Duration Up to 29 days
• Difficulty Moderate to challenging

The Lycian Way is Turkey's first long-distance hiking trail, stretching from Fethiye to Antalya along the southwestern coast. Hikers can enjoy breathtaking coastal views, ancient Lycian ruins, and picturesque beaches such as Patara and Olympos. The trail can be tackled in sections, making it accessible for those who prefer shorter hikes.

The Epic Lycian Way Hike in Turkey

St. Paul Trail

• Distance 500 km (310 miles)
• Duration Approximately 27 days
• Difficulty Strenuous

This historical trail follows the route taken by St. Paul during his missionary journeys. It traverses rural Turkish villages and diverse landscapes, starting from Perge near Antalya and leading to Yalvaç. The best months for hiking are April to July and September to November.

Cappadocia Trails

• Distance Various trails available
• Duration Varies; day hikes recommended
• Difficulty Easy to moderate

Famous for its unique rock formations and fairy chimneys, Cappadocia offers numerous trails through stunning valleys. Hikers can explore ancient cave dwellings and enjoy panoramic views of the surreal landscape.

Best Hiking Trails in Cappadocia You Can Not Miss

Kaçkar Trail

• Distance 154 km (96 miles)
• Duration Varies; can take several days
• Difficulty Strenuous

Located in the Black Sea region, this trail offers stunning mountain scenery and opportunities to see wildlife such as bears and ibex. The best time for trekking is from July to September.

Uludağ Mountain Trail

• Distance 56 km (35 miles)
• Duration Varies; typically a few days
• Difficulty Medium

Uludağ National Park is popular for both winter sports and summer hiking. The trail from Sarıalan to Çobankaya features glacial lakes and alpine meadows, making it a beautiful summer destination.

Yenice Forest Trail

• Distance Approximately 12 km (7.5 miles)
• Duration 4 hours (out-and-back)
• Difficulty Moderate

This lesser-known trail winds through the lush Yenice Forest near Safranbolu, known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture. The area is ideal for nature lovers and offers various routes that can be explored on foot, bike, or horseback.

Mount Solymos Loop Trail

• Distance 4 km (2.5 miles)
• Duration 2–3 hours
• Difficulty Easy

This short hike in Mount Güllük-Termessos National Park leads to ancient ruins with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. It’s perfect for those looking to combine culture with a leisurely hike.

Köprülü Canyon Trail

• Distance 17.5 km (11 miles)
• Duration 4–5 hours
• Difficulty Moderate

Located in Köprülü Canyon National Park, this hike offers dramatic views of deep gorges and opportunities for wildlife spotting, including eagles and vultures.

These trails not only provide physical challenges but also immerse hikers in Turkey's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Whether you are looking for a leisurely walk or an adventurous trek, Turkey's hiking routes cater to all preferences and skill levels.