History and General Information / Local Legends and Folklore
Karagöl Plateau and Recreational Area, hidden on the ridges of the Elmadağ range at an altitude of 1,650 meters, is a natural mountain pond formed by the accumulation of snow and rain water in a karstic depression basin. It is a historical plateau, famous for its thyme-scented highland meadows, where Turkmen tribes have grazed their flocks during the summer months for centuries. The reason why the plateau's pond is called "Karagol" is due to its depth and the dark blue tone that the dark volcanic rocks around it give to the lake water. According to legend, the great dervishes living in the plateau would pray on the shores of Karagöl in times of drought, and abundant rains would descend from the mountain peaks. Today, it is an untouched natural wonder discovered by hikers, campers and photographers in the middle of the steppe. Geographical Structure, Altitude and Natural Features
The plateau is located at an exact altitude of 1,650 meters. High mountain meadows are covered with dwarf junipers, astragalus and wild mountain thyme. With its pure oxygen and cool mountain air, it has a microclimate that makes you feel cold even in the middle of summer. Visiting Hours, Days and Entrance Fees
•Entrance Fee:Entrance to the plateau area is completely free (is_free: true).•Visiting Hours and Days:Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; Daytime sightseeing and camping are recommended.•Rules, Safety and Stroller/Disabled Access: In order to protect the natural plateau ecosystem, garbage should never be left behind. Since the mountain road is hilly, it is not suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.•Facilities and Facilities:It is a natural plateau area; There are no facilities and campers and visitors must bring all their needs with them. Transportation, Public Transit Routes and Exact Location•Address / Open Location:Karagöl Yaylası Mevkii, Elmadağ Mountain Peaks, Elmadağ / Ankara.•Road Condition and Vehicle Availability: It is approximately 16 km from the center of Elmadağ. The last part of the plateau road is a stabilized mountain road and can be accessed by passenger cars or high-rise vehicles in dry weather.•Real Public Transportation Information: There is no direct public transportation; It can be reached from Elmadağ center by taxi or 4x4 private vehicle.•Parking Availability:There is car parking on the plains around the pond. Contextual Experience Tips, Photography and Local Gastronomy•Best Photography Spots and Frames:Mountain clouds reflected in the dark blue waters of Karagöl, plateau fogs at sunrise and Milky Way shots of the night sky.•Camping & Stargazing:It is fascinating to set up a tent at an altitude of 1,650 meters, completely away from light pollution, and watch the stars and meteors through a telescope.•Local Recommendation:Before going to the plateau, you should buy sausage and fresh village bread from Elmadağ butchers; Tea should be brewed in the cool mountain air.