A paved looped trail circumnavigating Eymir Lake through METU's forested campus land. The route is almost entirely flat, well-maintained, and suitable for all fitness levels including families with prams. Views across the reservoir are pleasant and birdlife is abundant.
Eymir Lake Circuit Trail is a 7-kilometre paved loop encircling Eymir Reservoir in the Gölbaşı district, approximately 20 kilometres south of central Ankara. The trail sits at around 950 metres elevation and involves negligible ascent — just 30 metres of cumulative gain — making it one of the most accessible outdoor routes in Ankara Province.
Trailhead access is straightforward. Visitors arriving by private car can park at the Main Entrance off Gölbaşı Road; the entrance is signposted from the Gölbaşı ring road and parking is free. EGO municipal bus line 157 runs from central Ankara to Gölbaşı town, from where a short taxi ride (roughly 20–30 TRY) or a 25-minute walk reaches the lake. No permit is required for entry.
The entire circuit follows a wide, uniformly surfaced asphalt-and-concrete path, making it suitable for pushchairs, road bikes, and low-mobility walkers. The path hugs the shoreline closely, providing continuous water views over the reservoir and into the forested slopes of the METU campus beyond. Dense stands of planted pine and cedar shade roughly half the circuit, offering relief during the warmer months.
Key landmarks along the route include the open grassy picnic area near the northern shore, the midpoint boat-hire jetty where pedal-boats and rowboats can be rented by the hour, and several bird-watching platforms erected at points where grebes, great crested herons, and numerous duck species congregate. The southern arc of the loop passes closest to the dam structure and offers the widest panoramic views across the reservoir.
Water is available from fountains at the entrance and near the café at the north end; no backcountry water sources exist along the route. A café at the main entrance serves tea, coffee, and light snacks. Designated toilet facilities are provided at the entrance and at the midpoint boat area. No refuge huts are needed given the trail's short distance and proximity to facilities.
The circuit is free to enter and functions as a public recreational space administered jointly by METU and Gölbaşı municipality. Joggers, cyclists, and families with young children share the path, particularly on weekend mornings when the trail becomes busy. Completing the full circuit takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours at a relaxed walking pace.
Trail facts
- Best season
- Year-round; spring for wildflowers; autumn for colour
- Terrain
- Paved path
Highlights
- Reservoir views
- Dense pinewood sections
- Bird watching (grebes, ducks, herons)
- Boat hire at midpoint
Tips for visiting
- Arrive early on weekend mornings to avoid crowds; the trail is most congested between 09:00 and 12:00.
- Bring a birdwatching checklist in spring — over 30 waterbird species have been recorded at the lake.
- The café at the entrance closes by 19:00 in summer; carry water for afternoon visits.
- Pedal-boats at the midpoint jetty cost approximately 100–150 TRY per 30 minutes; arrive before noon on weekends to secure one.
- Cyclists and joggers share the path; keep to the right and expect to be overtaken near the northern section.
When to visit
Spring (April to May) is best for wildflowers and peak birdlife activity, while autumn (October) brings pleasant temperatures and golden foliage along the forested sections. Early morning visits in summer avoid the midday heat and weekend crowds.
Accessibility
The entire 7-kilometre circuit is paved, flat, and wide enough for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Dedicated parking and toilet facilities are available at the entrance. This is one of the most wheelchair-accessible outdoor routes in the Ankara region.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an entrance fee to access Eymir Lake?
Access to the trail and lake shore is free of charge. Boat hire at the midpoint jetty is available for a separate fee of roughly 100–150 TRY per 30-minute session.
Can the trail be completed with a pram or pushchair?
Yes — the entire circuit is paved and essentially flat, making it fully suitable for prams, pushchairs, and most non-motorised mobility aids.
How do visitors reach Eymir Lake without a car?
EGO bus line 157 runs from central Ankara to Gölbaşı, from where a short taxi ride or a 25-minute walk reaches the lake entrance.
Are dogs permitted on the trail?
Dogs are generally allowed on leads and the trail is popular with dog-walkers, but visitors should confirm current municipal rules at the entrance gate as policies can change seasonally.
Is the trail suitable in winter?
The trail is accessible year-round but can become slippery after rain or frost; ice may form on shaded sections in January and February, so care is required.