Çatak Nature Park is a 387-hectare forest area 22 km from Çorum city center, protected since 1984. It features a black pine forest, picnic tables, barbecue areas, and two trekking trails (7 km and 12 km); a vehicle entrance fee applies.
Çatak Nature Park is located within the borders of Çatak and Çalyayla villages, part of the central district of Çorum. Declared a nature park in 1984, it spans 387 hectares of forest. The dominant tree species is black pine; Scots pine, sessile oak, aspen, and willow are also seen in places. The region's fauna includes species like foxes, rabbits, wolves, and partridges, along with songbirds.
Inside the park, there are picnic tables, barbecue areas, children's playgrounds, and a forest management restaurant. Visitors note that the Sunday spread breakfast option and restaurant service are very good; the helpfulness of Mr. Lütfi from the staff is also gratefully mentioned in many reviews. Two separate trekking trails are available: the first stage is 7 kilometers, starting from the Çalyayla Village road junction and ending at Alagöz Plateau, followed by the second stage, 12 kilometers, starting from Alagöz Plateau and ending at the park's recreational area.
Even in hot summer weather, the park remains cool, with the scent of pine and birdsong creating a relaxing atmosphere. The sunset view is particularly admired. Some visitors report finding the area deserted at first when arriving late, but felt at ease with the attention of the staff; one comment includes a childhood memory of sadness over the removal of an old slide designated for children.
Related discoveries: Natural Beauties, Çorum natural beauties, Alacahöyük Museum and Ancient City.
Guide's Note
When to Visit?
Spring and summer months are the most suitable period for picnics, camping, and hiking. Even in hot months like July, the forested area remains cool, and visitors note that the scent of pine and birdsong are relaxing. In winter, the park is covered in snow; during this period, attention should be paid to the condition of the road. Weekend visits are particularly preferred as spread breakfast service is offered at the restaurant on Sundays.
How to Get There?
The park is reached by driving approximately 4 km on the Çorum-Laçin-Osmancık highway and then turning left onto the Hamalıçay-Ayaz route. The entire road is asphalt. Some visitors coming from the Osmancık direction report that navigation misdirected them via Kırkdilim and Feruz village, adding an extra 40 km to their journey. Turning right upon reaching Kırkdilim is a shorter route. A private car is the most practical form of transport, public transport options are limited.
How Much Time Should Be Allocated?
Half a day is sufficient for just a picnic and a short walk. Those wishing to complete the first 7 km stage should allocate 3-4 hours. For those who want to combine both stages (total 19 km) and go up to Alagöz Plateau, a full day plan is necessary. Those considering camping can add an overnight stay to their itinerary.
Trail and Route Recommendation
There are two separate trekking trails within the park. The first stage starts from the road junction leading to Çalyayla Village and ends at Alagöz Plateau, with a length of 7 km. The second stage starts from Alagöz Plateau and ends at the park's recreational area, which is 12 km. Those wishing to combine both stages complete a total route of 19 km. For short visits, just walking around the recreational area is sufficient; those wanting a long walk can go up to Alagöz Plateau.
What to Eat, Where to Eat?
The forest management restaurant within the park stands out, especially with its spread breakfast offered on Sundays. Comments show that the service and atmosphere are appreciated, and the helpfulness of Mr. Lütfi from the restaurant staff is frequently mentioned with gratitude. You can also bring your own barbecue and picnic supplies and spend time in the park's designated picnic areas.
Things to Pay Attention To
Some visitors arriving at the park late state that they initially found the area deserted and isolated, but felt at ease with the attention of the staff. During off-season periods, the park is quieter and less busy. This is worth noting for those traveling alone. Since the entrance fee varies by vehicle type, especially if you are going with a caravan or a large vehicle, check the current tariff in advance.
Photography Spots
Sunset hours are the most photographed moments in the park; the light hitting the forest from the hills is a detail frequently mentioned by visitors. After snowfall in winter, the forest turning white also offers a unique opportunity for photography. The wide valley views opening towards Alagöz Plateau along the hiking trails are also noteworthy stops.
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