The Sarıkız Trail in Kaz Dağları (Mount Ida) National Park in Çanakkale province is one of northwestern Turkey's most celebrated mountain routes, ascending to the 1,774-metre summit of Kazdağı, the mythological Mount Ida of antiquity. The trailhead begins at the Sarıkız Picnic Area (Sarıkız Piknik Alanı) near Çamlıbel village, accessible by dolmuş from Edremit or by private car from Çanakkale city (approximately 2 hours drive). Parking is available at the picnic area; no advance permit is required for day hikers, though the national park entrance fee applies (TRY 100–150 / ~$3–4 per person). The route covers 8 km round trip with 600 metres of elevation gain, climbing from around 600 metres above sea level to the summit shrine of Sarıkız. The path is well-marked with yellow blazes and transitions from shaded conifer and oak forest in the lower sections to open rocky terrain near the summit ridge. The upper section involves some scrambling over loose rock and exposed traverses where wind can be strong; sturdy ankle-support boots are essential. At the summit, the Sarıkız Shrine honours a local Anatolian folk legend, and panoramic views stretch across the Aegean Sea to Lesbos island on clear days. No water sources exist above the picnic area, so hikers should carry at least 2 litres. No refuge huts are located on the trail itself, though the picnic area has basic facilities. The descent follows the same route and takes 2–2.5 hours.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Kaz Dağları National Park, Edremit
- Best season
- April–October
What to bring
- Hiking boots
- Water (2L+)
- Sun protection
- Layered clothing (summit cold)
- Trail snacks
Location
Sarıkız Piknik Alanı, Çamlıbel Köyü, Edremit, Çanakkale (trailhead at Sarıkız picnic area)
39.7032, 26.9198 View on map
Highlights
- Summit of Kazdağı (Mount Ida) at 1,774m with panoramic views across the Aegean to Lesbos island
- Sarıkız Shrine at the summit — a site of Anatolian folk pilgrimage steeped in local legend
- Old-growth black pine and chestnut forest shading the lower trail sections
- Rocky open ridge walk above the treeline with expansive sky and sea views
- Rich birdlife and endemic flora of Kaz Dağları National Park throughout the route
Tips for visiting
- Start before 8am in summer to avoid midday heat and afternoon cloud build-up on the summit
- Carry minimum 2 litres of water — no water sources exist above the picnic area
- The upper trail becomes icy in winter; crampons or microspikes required October through April
- A light windproof layer is essential even in summer as the summit ridge can be cold and exposed
- The dolmuş from Edremit to Çamlıbel runs infrequently — confirm return departure times before setting out
When to visit
Late May through September offers the most reliable conditions, with June and September ideal for cooler temperatures and lower crowds. Early morning starts are recommended in summer to avoid afternoon heat and cloud cover on the summit.
Accessibility
The Sarıkız Trail is not wheelchair- or stroller-accessible. The route involves sustained steep climbs, loose rock, and exposed ridge sections unsuitable for mobility aids of any kind.
Frequently asked questions
Is a permit required to hike the Sarıkız Trail?
No hiking permit is needed, but a national park entrance fee applies (approximately TRY 100–150 per person as of 2025). The fee is collected at the Kaz Dağları National Park entrance gate on the road to the trailhead.
How difficult is the Sarıkız Trail?
The trail is rated hard. The 600-metre elevation gain over 4 km is sustained and the upper section includes rocky scrambling. Hikers with prior mountain experience will manage comfortably; beginners should assess their fitness carefully before attempting the summit.
What is the best time of year to hike?
April through October offers the most reliable conditions. Late spring (May–June) sees wildflowers and cool temperatures. July and August are hot in the lower forest; start early. The summit may be accessible on fine autumn days through October.
Can the trail be combined with other routes in the park?
Yes. The park has several interconnected forest tracks. The Sarıkız Trail can be extended with nearby İda Valley walks; trail maps are available at Çamlıbel village and the park visitor centre near Edremit.