Yedigöller (Seven Lakes) Plateau Trek

The Yedigöller (Seven Lakes) Plateau Trek is one of the most celebrated high-alpine routes in the Aladağlar National Park, leading to a series of glacial tarns set in a dramatic cirque at around 3,100 m. The trek begins at the Sokullupınar campsite near Çamardı, Niğde province, roughly 190 km north of Adana city. No permit is required but a national park entrance fee applies at the Çamardı gate. The trail climbs from the campsite through juniper woodland and then onto open alpine meadows, gaining elevation steadily along a rocky path that is generally well-cairned but requires navigation awareness on the upper scree slopes. The final ascent to the lakes basin involves 300–400 m of loose scree climbing with sustained gradient. The seven lakes range from small seasonal pools to a larger, deeper tarn that reflects the surrounding granite peaks. Wildflower meadows bloom from late June through August, and the area supports populations of wild ibex, chamois and golden eagles. A night camped at the lakes basin extends the experience significantly and is strongly recommended; a four-season sleeping bag is needed as temperatures drop below freezing even in mid-summer. Water is available from the lake outlet streams and snowmelt channels, though purification is advisable. The descent returns via the same route, though experienced trekkers occasionally traverse to other Aladağlar valleys. The entire circuit falls in Niğde province but forms the principal multi-day objective accessible from Adana within a long weekend.