Karagöl Plateau (Giresun)

Karagöl Yaylası is located in northeastern Türkiye, within the Eastern Black Sea Region, under the administrative boundaries of Giresun Province, atop the Giresun Mountains. The plateau is situated near the tripoint of Giresun, Ordu, and Sivas provinces, on the northern slopes of Karagöl Mountain. Karagöl Mountain, with an elevation of 3,275 metres, is the second highest peak in the region. The altitude of the plateau ranges approximately between 1,800 and 2,000 metres above sea level.

Geomorphological Features

Karagöl Yaylası lies on a geological structure composed of limestone, marble, and metamorphic rocks of the Giresun Mountains. The region is characterized by rugged and steep slopes due to its geological formation. The surrounding landscape has been shaped by glacial activity, featuring cirque basins and glacial valleys. Lakes such as Karagöl, Sağrak Lake, and Aygır Lake formed within cirque basins left behind by glacial movements. The topography of the plateau includes deep valleys and sharp ridges. Additionally, there are areas with high risks of rockfalls and landslides.

Karagöl Yaylası Glacial Lake (Giresun Governorship)

Climate Characteristics

Karagöl Yaylası lies at the intersection of the humid Black Sea climate of the Eastern Black Sea Region and the high mountain climate. Summers are cool and rainy, while winters are long and severe with heavy snowfall. Annual average precipitation exceeds 1,200 mm. Intense snowfall occurs particularly between November and March. Snow depth can reach 1 to 2 metres. During summer, fog, dew, and rain are common. The moist air from the Black Sea directly influences the plateau’s vegetation and hydrological regime. Winter temperatures frequently drop below zero, and freezing events are widespread.

Vegetation and Ecosystem

Karagöl Yaylası is situated within the high mountain alpine meadow zone. The tree line occurs at approximately 1,800 metres, with limited tree presence in the upper sections. In the lower areas, forests of black pine (Pinus nigra), Oriental spruce (Picea orientalis), and Caucasian fir (Abies nordmanniana) are found. The meadow areas are covered with low herbaceous plants, grassland species, and endemic high-mountain flora. The natural ecosystem of the plateau supports the nitrogen cycle through atmospheric phenomena such as fog, dew, and lightning, which enhance soil fertility and contribute to plant diversity. Additionally, the plateau provides a natural habitat for numerous bird species, small mammals, and insects.

Hydrography and Water Resources

The area surrounding Karagöl Yaylası is rich in a network of small springs and streams. The main water sources are cirque lakes such as Karagöl and Sağrak Lake, located on the northern side of the plateau. These lakes consist of naturally accumulated water bodies formed in glacial basins. During summer, meltwater from glaciers feeds streams that flow from these lakes and springs toward the valleys of Giresun and Ordu, eventually reaching the Black Sea. The main streams in the region are Aksu, Pazarsuyu, and Batlama. The plateau’s water resources supply both the local pastoral communities and the settlements below.

Karagöl Yaylası River Course (Anadolu Agency)

Settlements and Human Activities

Karagöl Yaylası and its surroundings encompass approximately 216 pastoral settlement units, including yaylas and obas. These settlements are typically active during the summer months and remain uninhabited in winter due to harsh climatic conditions. The settlements are established above the tree line, near meadow areas. Traditional structures built primarily from wood and stone are common. The main economic activities in the region are pastoralism and animal husbandry (sheep and cattle). During the summer season, local populations bring their livestock to graze and produce animal-based goods. Additionally, traditional crafts and regional customs are preserved within the pastoral culture.

Ecological Importance and Conservation Status

Karagöl Yaylası is one of the high mountain ecosystems of the Eastern Black Sea Region, known for its endemic plant species and rich biological diversity. The plateau supports ecological balance through its alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and natural water sources. Natural processes that transfer nitrogen from the atmosphere to the soil play a vital role in the sustainability of the plateau’s ecosystem. To protect the region’s flora and fauna diversity, the area is surrounded by various natural sites and protected zones. Local authorities implement conservation measures to prevent human activities from damaging the ecosystem.

Access and Connectivity

Access to Karagöl Yaylası is provided via mountain roads originating from the city centre of Giresun. The roads are generally unpaved or earthen and may be closed during winter due to snow and ice. Summer provides easier access and is ideal for hiking and nature tourism. Although efforts are underway to improve infrastructure, access to the plateau remains challenging. Walking trails and routes for mountaineering and nature sports are available around the plateau.

Geological History and Glacial Period Traces

The area where Karagöl Yaylası is located was affected by Quaternary glaciers. Glacial movements shaped the plateau’s current topography. Cirque basins, moraine ridges, and glacial lakes in the surrounding area are geological remnants of this period. The glaciers identified in the region covered the plateau’s surroundings during the last glacial maximum. Today, small glaciers or permanent snow patches are observed around Karagöl and its vicinity.

Cultural and Historical Aspects

Karagöl Yaylası has historically been one of the key centres of Black Sea pastoral culture. The tradition of pastoralism in the region reflects a way of life that has continued since the Middle Ages. Cultural elements, ancient structures, and settlement remnants documenting pastoral life are found within and around the plateau. It is also known that the plateau has traditionally served as a summer residence for local communities for livestock grazing and social activities.