Photos of Hasan Volcano
Hasan Volcano
Hasan Volcano in Cappadocia, Turkey - geology and routes
Hasan Volcano, or Hasandag, is a stratovolcano on the western edge of Cappadocia, between the cities of Aksaray and Nigde. The massif has two main summits: Greater Hasan at an elevation of 3 268 m and Lesser Hasan around 3 069 m. The twin-peaked silhouette is clearly visible from many points in the region and serves as a landmark in the southwestern part of Cappadocia.
Hasan belongs to the Central Anatolian Volcanic Province. Together with the Erciyes and Melendiz massifs, it contributed to the formation of the tuff deposits that make up the plateaus and valleys of Cappadocia. Hasan's slopes are composed mainly of andesitic and dacitic lavas, with lava domes occurring in the upper part. Signs of Holocene activity are noted, however the exact date of the last eruption is debated, the volcano is considered dormant.
The surrounding area is known for obsidian deposits, above all near the neighboring massifs of Golludag and Nenezi-Dag. In the Neolithic and Chalcolithic, volcanic glass was widely used to make tools and ornaments; archaeologists also find polished obsidian mirrors. A wall painting from Catalhoyuk is often interpreted as depicting an eruption of Hasandag; this version is supported by some geological dating, although it remains a matter of debate.
Ascents of Hasan are possible in stable weather. A popular route to Greater Hasan begins from the village of Helvadere at the foot of the massif. The best time for the ascent is late spring, summer, and early autumn. In the warm season, the round trip usually takes 6-8 hours depending on fitness. In winter and early spring, the upper slopes retain snow and icing; experience and appropriate equipment are required.
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Hasan Volcano, or Hasandag, is a stratovolcano on the western edge of Cappadocia, between the cities of Aksaray and Nigde. The massif has two main summits: Greater Hasan at an elevation of 3 268 m and Lesser Hasan around 3 069 m. The twin-peaked silhouette is clearly visible from many points in the region and serves as a landmark in the southwestern part of Cappadocia.
Hasan belongs to the Central Anatolian Volcanic Province. Together with the Erciyes and Melendiz massifs, it contributed to the formation of the tuff deposits that make up the plateaus and valleys of Cappadocia. Hasan's slopes are composed mainly of andesitic and dacitic lavas, with lava domes occurring in the upper part. Signs of Holocene activity are noted, however the exact date of the last eruption is debated, the volcano is considered dormant.
The surrounding area is known for obsidian deposits, above all near the neighboring massifs of Golludag and Nenezi-Dag. In the Neolithic and Chalcolithic, volcanic glass was widely used to make tools and ornaments; archaeologists also find polished obsidian mirrors. A wall painting from Catalhoyuk is often interpreted as depicting an eruption of Hasandag; this version is supported by some geological dating, although it remains a matter of debate.
Ascents of Hasan are possible in stable weather. A popular route to Greater Hasan begins from the village of Helvadere at the foot of the massif. The best time for the ascent is late spring, summer, and early autumn. In the warm season, the round trip usually takes 6-8 hours depending on fitness. In winter and early spring, the upper slopes retain snow and icing; experience and appropriate equipment are required.
Ascents require preparation and consideration of weather conditions.
Trek to 3 268 m and panoramas of the Cappadocian plateau
To reach the classic trailhead for Greater Hasan, you drive to the village of Helvadere, located at the northern slopes of the massif. At first the path goes across gentle grassy slopes with scattered boulders, then transitions to sections of scree and ancient lava flows. Before reaching the pass between the summits the trail becomes noticeably steeper, with fine scree underfoot, and on the upper section there are rock outcrops and lava domes.
Elevation gain is substantial - on average 1 300-1 600 m depending on the starting point. There are no water sources or shade along the route, so it is important to take a supply of water and set out early in the morning. Summer heat and strong wind on the ridge are common. In the cold season the upper slopes are covered with snow and firn; crampons and trekking poles are useful, and in icy conditions - an ice axe and experience moving on mountain terrain.
From the ridge, wide views open onto the tuff plateaus of Cappadocia. In clear weather the Erciyes massif, the Melendiz Mountains, and the saline Lake Tuz are visible to the west. From the saddle between the summits, if desired, you can also ascend Lesser Hasan, if time and weather permit.
From the northern and western outskirts of the massif it is convenient to visit the Ihlara Valley and the historic quarters of Guzelyurt, and to the south lies the crater lake Nar. The easiest way to reach the start of the trail is by car or taxi from the city of Aksaray, the road to Helvadere is paved, the last kilometers to the starting point may be on dirt.
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