Zigana Pass: Trabzon – Maçka – Gümüşhane

A historic Silk Road route that climbs from the damp forests of the Black Sea to the Zigana Pass, over 2,000 metres, and descends into the dry Gümüşhane valley.

From Trabzon you go south to Maçka, from where a short detour can be made to Sümela Monastery in the Altındere Valley. Returning to the main road, you climb the old Zigana Pass road via Hamsiköy and descend to Gümüşhane via Torul.

Road conditions

Because the new Zigana Tunnel takes most of the traffic, the old pass road is quieter and this is where the real scenery is. The road is asphalt but twisty, and its state of repair varies; be prepared for potholes and patched asphalt.

Things to watch for

Fog and rain are common on the pass; visibility can drop to a few metres.
The northern slope is damp and slippery, the southern slope drier and warmer; be ready to change layers between the two climates.
The Sümela road is crowded in season; check the visiting hours beforehand.

Maçka and Torul are good points for fuel. A stop in Hamsiköy is traditional. You can do the route as a day trip from Trabzon, or extend it by continuing from Gümüşhane towards Bayburt.