Gümüşova Yeşilyayla – Kuyudüzü Reservoir Park

The Gümüşova Yeşilyayla – Kuyudüzü Göleti Parkour is a natural walking route located within the boundaries of Gümüşova district in the western part of Düzce province, stretching between forested areas and water sources. The route provides walkers with opportunities to learn about the region’s vegetation and engage with the rural natural environment.

Geographical Location and Route Structure

The route begins in Yeşilyayla Village, part of Gümüşova district, and extends approximately 14 kilometres eastward, ending around the Kuyudüzü Dam. The path primarily consists of forest trails, footpaths, and gently sloping terrain. During the walk, visitors encounter both interior forest sections and open areas.

Natural Structure and Ecosystem Characteristics

The walking route passes through typical deciduous forests influenced by the Black Sea climate. Along the path, beech, oak, hornbeam, and occasionally plane trees can be observed. This forested landscape is enriched by biological diversity, bird calls, and ground-cover vegetation.

The area surrounding the Kuyudüzü Dam hosts wetland vegetation. The moist microclimate created by the dam fosters the development of diverse ecological niches. This zone serves as a potential observation point for both migratory and resident bird species.

Gümüşova Yeşilyayla – Kuyudüzü Göleti Parkour (Tuncay Şengül. Kültürportalı)

Rural Life and Local Fabric

Yeşilyayla Village, the starting point of the route, largely preserves traditional rural settlement characteristics. Along the path, agricultural fields, small animal shelters, and rural roads can be seen. Near the dam, traces of land use related to agriculture and livestock farming are evident. These elements ensure that the route offers not only a natural but also a sociocultural experience.

Purpose of Use and Tourism Potential

The route is suitable for various recreational activities, primarily nature walking. It is well suited for individual walkers and small groups, enabling activities such as photography, nature observation, and day trips. The area around the dam provides a natural setting ideal for relaxation and camping.

The walking route holds potential as a resource to enhance the region’s nature tourism. With infrastructure support aligned with sustainability principles, it could contribute to local development.

Access and Signage Status

Yeşilyayla Village, the starting point of the route, is accessible by road. While some directional signs are present along the path, signage around the dam is reported to be insufficient. This may pose a risk of disorientation for first-time users of the route.

The Düzce Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism’s guidebook includes proposals for improving signage and wayfinding along the region’s walking routes. In this context, it is recommended to increase the number of directional signs and strengthen infrastructure for the Yeşilyayla – Kuyudüzü route.

This route, which traverses natural and semi-natural habitats, must be managed within the framework of controlled use principles due to its accessibility to human activity. Particular attention must be paid to preventing littering near the dam and avoiding harm to local flora and fauna. Furthermore, local community involvement in route maintenance is a crucial factor in fostering local ownership and promoting sustainable use.