Driving the steep and dangerous Kemer Dağı pass in Bayburt
Kemer Dağı is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2,582 meters (8,471 ft) above sea level, located in the Aydıntepe District of Bayburt Province, Turkey. Crossing the Pontic Mountains, the 27-kilometer road connects the villages of Kavlatan and Suludere.
| Road facts: Kemer Dağı | |
|---|---|
| Location | Aydıntepe, Bayburt (Turkey) |
| Elevation | 2,582 m (8,471 ft) |
| Length | 27 km (16.8 miles) |
| Hairpin Turns | 12 switchbacks |
| Surface | Paved |
Where is Kemer Dağı located?
The pass is located in northeastern Turkey, in the Eastern Black Sea Region. The route runs north-south through the Pontic Mountains between Kavlatan and Suludere in Bayburt Province.
Is the road over Kemer Dağı paved?
Yes, the 27-kilometer route is paved, but the road is narrow and cut into steep slopes. The ascent includes 12 sharp hairpin turns. At nearly 2,600 meters elevation, the steep inclines force engines to climb in low gears due to reduced oxygen levels.
What are the main hazards on Kemer Dağı?
The primary hazard is rockfalls and landslides from the surrounding mountain faces, which leave loose scree and sharp stones across the lanes. Guardrails are absent or damaged along several ledge sections. Black ice forms frequently in shaded curves, and low gear selection is required on the descent to manage speed and prevent brake overheating.
Is Kemer Dağı open year-round?
No. Due to its elevation of 2,582 meters and heavy winter snowfall in Bayburt Province, the pass is closed by snow from October through June. Seasonal snow clearance reopens the road in late spring or early summer.
Pic: Hasan Taslak