METU (Middle East Technical University) forest has 50+ km of trails from flat easy routes to technical singletrack. The Eymir Lake circuit is 7 km on paved paths — ideal for all fitness levels.
Mountain biking around Ankara centres on two complementary areas: the METU (Middle East Technical University) forest on the city's southwestern edge and the Eymir Lake circuit in the Gölbaşı district, 15–20 km south of the city centre. Together these spaces offer more than 50 km of trails ranging from flat lakeside paths to technical singletrack through pine and oak woodland, making the Ankara region one of the more accessible off-road cycling destinations in Central Anatolia.
The METU forest trails are used by the university's cycling clubs and recreational riders from across the city. Singletrack here reaches technical grades suited to experienced riders comfortable with roots, loose gravel, and moderate inclines. Routes of 15–30 km are achievable within a half-day, with ample opportunity to link different trail segments. No entrance fee is charged, though campus access points may be gated after hours. The forest also connects to surrounding municipal green corridors, extending possible route options further.
The Eymir Lake circuit is a 7 km sealed path around a shallow reservoir managed by Gölbaşı municipality. It is flat and clearly marked, making it accessible to families, casual cyclists, and anyone riding a hybrid or mountain bike for the first time. The path passes through reed beds with open water views and occasional picnic spots. A nominal entrance fee applies to the lake area.
Rental bikes are available from shops along Atatürk Bulvarı and in the Çankaya district at 200–400 TRY per day. The BENTO bike-share scheme operates on the METU campus at 30 TRY per 30 minutes. Helmets are generally provided with rentals; riders should confirm availability at the point of hire.
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer optimal trail conditions: temperatures between 10–20°C with firm soil and manageable trail moisture. Summer riding is possible but heat exceeding 30°C and trail dust create challenging conditions on exposed sections. No formal rescue service operates on the trails, so riders should carry a charged mobile phone, a basic puncture kit, and sufficient water for the planned route.
Activity facts
- Where
- METU Forest and Eymir Lake, south Ankara
Equipment
- Rental bikes from Atatürk Bulvarı, Çankaya shops: 200–400 TRY/day
- BENTO bike-share at METU campus: 30 TRY/30 min
- Helmet available with rentals
Location
ODTÜ / Gölbaşı, Ankara
39.8900, 32.7700 View on map
Highlights
- 50+ km of mixed forest trails through METU campus from gentle flats to technical singletrack
- 7 km sealed Eymir Lake circuit ideal for families and first-time off-road cyclists
- Rental bikes and BENTO bike-share available for visitors without personal equipment
- No entrance fee for METU forest trails; nominal fee for Eymir Lake area
- Spring and autumn rides through pine and oak woodland with minimal road traffic
Tips for visiting
- Arrive at METU forest on weekday mornings to share trails with fewer pedestrians and runners.
- Carry at least 1.5 litres of water; trail-side taps are limited in the forest section.
- Eymir Lake entrance may require a small fee (10–30 TRY) — bring cash as card machines can be unreliable.
- Summer heat above 30°C makes early morning starts before 08:00 advisable for longer forest routes.
- Check tyre pressure before setting out — rental shops do not always prepare bikes to trail-ready standard.
When to visit
April to June and September to October offer the best trail conditions, with mild temperatures and firm soil. Early morning starts are advisable during summer months to avoid midday heat.
Accessibility
The Eymir Lake sealed circuit is accessible to riders with moderate mobility, including adapted hand-cycles, though restroom facilities and parking surfaces are uneven in places. METU forest singletrack is not suitable for riders with significant physical limitations.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a guide for the METU forest trails?
A guide is not required. Most trails are well-worn and navigable with a basic trail map, which local cycling groups post online. The METU Cycling Club occasionally organises open group rides.
Can beginners use the METU forest trails?
Yes. The forest includes easy, flat loops suitable for beginners alongside more demanding singletrack. The Eymir Lake circuit is the most beginner-friendly option: sealed, flat, and clearly marked.
Where can I rent a bike near the trail areas?
Shops along Atatürk Bulvarı in central Ankara offer mountain bike hire at 200–400 TRY per day. BENTO bike-share kiosks operate inside the METU campus at 30 TRY per 30 minutes.
Is the Eymir Lake area open year-round?
The lake area is generally open year-round, but the circuit path can become muddy and partially waterlogged after heavy winter rain. Spring through autumn provides the most reliable cycling conditions.