Karagöl Mountain, at 3,107 metres, is the highest point in the province. The lakes at its foot formed in hollows left from the glacial period; the water is clear, the surroundings rocky and bare. Giresun's most striking scenery is here, but so is the hardest to reach.
Do not set out without reading this article. Karagöl is not a sightseeing stop but a mountain hike. Every year unprepared groups lose their way in the mist or are caught out by a change in the weather.
What is it like?
Above the tree line, with sparse vegetation. Rocky slopes, patches of snow (which can last until midsummer) and dark lakes between them. That is where the name comes from: because they are deep and shaded, the water looks dark.
How is it reached?
You drive up to a certain point, and the rest is a hike. The length and difficulty of the hike depend on which route you take; you need to set aside a full day.
- The vehicle road is a graded track; a high-clearance vehicle is an advantage
- In the final section you leave the car and walk
- The path is not clear everywhere
When?
Only July-September is reasonable. Before that there is snow, after it the risk of mist and rain rises.
| Period | Situation |
|---|---|
| July | Snow largely gone, the most suitable |
| August | The safest window |
| September | Still possible, weather more changeable |
| October – June | Snow, mist, low temperatures · not recommended |
Safety rules
- Set out early. The weather deteriorates in the afternoon, the mist descends.
- Do not go alone. At least two people, ideally with someone who knows the area.
- Tell someone. Say where you are going and your return time.
- No phone signal. Download an offline map, record a GPS track.
- Dress in layers. Even in summer the temperature drops at the summit, the wind is sharp.
- Water and food in sufficient quantity; there is no supply on the way.
- Do not move in mist. If visibility closes, wait where you are.
Bring with you
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Ankle boots | Rocky ground, risk of a sprain |
| Waterproof jacket | The weather changes in five minutes |
| Thermal layer | Cool at the summit even in summer |
| Head torch | In case the return runs late |
| Power bank | GPS drains the battery fast |
| First-aid kit | Help is far away |
An alternative
If Karagöl feels too much, you can find Giresun's water scenery in easier places: Mavigöl and the Göksu Travertines are spots you can drive up to the door of, suitable for families. The scenery is different but enjoyable.
On the map
For easier water views the map has Mavigöl and Göksu; Karagöl itself is a serious hike, not a stop.
Open the guide