SKI CENTER

Sarıkamış Ski Center

Location and General Features

Sarıkamış Ski Center is located in Sarıkamış district of Kars province in the Eastern Anatolia Region. The Sarıkamış ski area at 2,100–2,634 meters altitude is surrounded by yellow pine trees; therefore, the slopes are protected from wind and there is no avalanche danger. The region is dominated by a snow layer with a crystal snow structure that rivals the Alps; this special snow structure maintains its freshness even after falling and offers skiers a clean, comfortable skiing opportunity. Thus, Sarıkamış offers skiers a unique experience with its tree-covered slopes and crystal snow.

Crystal Snow and Technical Details of Slopes

Sarıkamış's slopes are approximately 25–30 km in total length. There are four main chairlift lines in the ski area, and the slopes are organized according to difficulty levels:

Stage 1 (Hotels Area, M-5): This stage, served by a 4-person fixed-seat chairlift (50 seats, 692 m line length), has a 50 m wide, 700 m long beginner (green/blue) slope and a 300 m² ski training area.

Stage 2 (M-3): In this area, accessed by a 4-person detachable-seat chairlift (77 seats, 1,450 m), there are approximately 1,750–1,800 m long beginner slopes with 11% gradient and additional training areas. One five-star and one three-star hotel have been built in this stage.

Stage 3 (M-2): Served by a 4-person detachable chairlift (54 seats, 1,850 m). Most of the slopes descending from the summit are provided through this stage. The slopes in this area are: Slope 3 (3500 m, 17% gradient, blue-band), Slope 4 (2800 m, 28% gradient, red-band), Slope 5 (2800 m, 34% gradient, black-band) and Slope 8 for Snow Park (2600 m, 28% gradient, red-band). There is also a wooden mountain cafe in the area.

Stage 4 (Karanlıkdere, M-1): Accessed by a 4-person detachable chairlift (77 seats, 1,650 m). There are two main slopes here: Slope 6 (2400 m, 34% gradient, black-band) and Slope 7 (2600 m, 34% gradient, red-band). There is also a 200 m long half-pipe snowboard slope in Karanlıkdere.

Since the slopes are surrounded by yellow pine forest, skiing is done with a nature view; there is no avalanche risk. In Sarıkamış, which has one of Turkey's longest ski slopes in total, there is a slope suitable for every level.

Transportation Options

Transportation to Sarıkamış Ski Center is provided by three main transportation types:

Airway: The nearest airport is Kars Harakani Airport (approximately 50–54 km). Erzurum Airport (approximately 105–108 km) can also be used as an alternative. It is possible to reach Sarıkamış from the airports by private transfer services or buses during the winter months.

Roadway: Sarıkamış is connected to many regions of Anatolia via the D100 (E80) highway. Vehicles coming via the Erzurum–Kars highway reach Kars city center; from there, Sarıkamış directions are followed. Minibus and bus services are organized from Kars city center to Sarıkamış district. The roads on the route are generally prepared for winter conditions.

Railway: The Ankara–Kars Railway (Eastern Express) provides access to Sarıkamış Train Station. Trains departing from Ankara and other cities arrive at Sarıkamış station; from there, you can reach the ski center by minibus or taxi.

Structure of Facilities

In addition to four chairlift lines at the ski center, there are various facilities serving visitors:

Mechanical Facilities: There are four chairlift lines operated by Sarıkamış Mountain Inc. The total carrying capacity of the chairlifts is approximately 4,600 people per hour. At each stage exit point, there are ticket offices, turnstiles and parking areas.

Ski Schools and Equipment Rental: Ski schools consisting of experienced instructors serve at the center. Training from beginner to advanced level is offered to those who want to take ski and snowboard lessons. In addition, ski, snowboard, and sled equipment can be rented at many hotels and within the center.

Other Facilities: Rest facilities (mountain cafes, restaurants) are found at each stage. Ski rooms, deposit lockers and shower units are provided for post-ski needs. In addition, auxiliary units such as first aid stations, restrooms and children's playgrounds are located at the center.

Other Activities

Sarıkamış offers many winter activity opportunities besides skiing. These include:

Snowboard: In addition to the Alpine branch, snowboarding can be done on the slopes. It appeals to experienced athletes with special barriers and half-pipe ski equipment at Snow Park.

Sled (Toboggan): There are opportunities for sledding near the ski slopes for families and children. Some hotels provide sled rental services; sled tours and ice fishing activities can be organized on frozen lakes in the district center.

Nature Walks and Snow Tours: Winter nature walks are conducted within pine forests and meadow areas. There are tour organizations that organize ski safari and snowshoe tours on marked routes. Photography and bird watching can be done on the natural trails around Sarıkamış.

Snowmobile and Off-Road: Snowmobile tours and ATV safari opportunities are offered for adventure seekers. Some private tour companies provide snowmobile rental services on designated trails around the slopes.

Season Duration and Snow Depth

The ski season in Sarıkamış is long and productive. Snow usually begins to fall in the region during the late November – early December period. The most suitable period for skiing is between early December and early April. On average, snow depth ranges from 1–1.5 meters for 4-5 months per year; sometimes this value can approach 2 meters. For example, in the 2025 winter, the snow depth reaching the slopes rose to 154 cm. The ski season can extend until the end of March depending on weather conditions.