Hiking the ridge trails above Anzac Cove offers visitors a chance to explore the rugged landscapes of the Gallipoli Peninsula while following in the footsteps of ANZAC soldiers from the 1915 campaign.

Hiking the ridge trails above Anzac Cove offers visitors a chance to explore the rugged landscapes of the Gallipoli Peninsula while following in the footsteps of ANZAC soldiers from the 1915 campaign.

These ridge trails provide breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea, the Dardanelles Strait, and the historic battle sites that shaped the Gallipoli Campaign. The routes vary in difficulty, catering to both casual walkers and experienced hikers looking to connect with history and nature. Tracing the contours of Chunuk Bair, Sari Bair, and other key ridges, these trails deliver a moving walk through one of the most significant battlefields of World War I.

The ridge trails above Anzac Cove are a network of walking paths on the Gallipoli Peninsula in Çanakkale, Turkey, that follow the elevated terrain where Allied and Ottoman forces clashed in 1915. These trails connect key sites such as Chunuk Bair, Lone Pine, and The Nek, offering panoramic views and a deep sense of historical immersion.

What are the Ridge Trails Above Anzac Cove?

The ridge trails are a series of marked and unmarked footpaths running along the spine of the Gallipoli Peninsula’s inland ridges, above the original Anzac Cove landing zone. They range from gentle coastal ascents to challenging climbs over rocky outcrops and through low scrub typical of the Mediterranean maquis. The most famous route is the climb to Chunuk Bair, the highest point captured by New Zealand troops on 8 August 1915.

Other notable trails include the path to the Lone Pine Cemetery and Memorial, which was the site of one of the fiercest battles in August 1915, and the track leading to The Nek, a narrow stretch of land where a tragic Allied assault occurred on 7 August 1915. These trails are maintained by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism in partnership with local authorities and are accessible year-round, though best visited during spring and autumn for comfortable temperatures.

How to Access and Hike the Ridge Trails

To begin your hike, travel to Anzac Cove by ferry from Eceabat or by road from Çanakkale. Most visitors park at the Gelibolu Turları visitor center in Eceabat, then take a short ferry crossing to the Gallipoli Peninsula. From Anzac Cove, follow the well-marked paths uphill toward the ridges. Signage in both Turkish and English is typically present at trail junctions.

There are two primary routes from Anzac Cove:

• Chunuk Bair Trail: Approximately 4 kilometres one-way, rising about 230 metres in elevation. The walk takes around 90 minutes to 2 hours depending on pace and stops for reflection. The trail passes through the Lone Pine area and continues steeply upward to the Chunuk Bair summit.
• Lone Pine to The Nek Trail: A shorter loop of roughly 2.5 kilometres, connecting the Lone Pine Memorial to The Nek. This trail is less strenuous but emotionally powerful, passing through the Australian 1st Brigade Memorial and the Allied trenches.

Wear sturdy hiking shoes with ankle support, as the terrain is uneven and often rocky. Bring at least 1 litre of water per person, a hat, and sunscreen, especially in summer when temperatures can exceed 30°C. There are no shops or facilities on the ridges, so plan accordingly.

“Start early in the morning to avoid midday heat and to experience the tranquillity of the ridges when the peninsula is quietest.”

When Is the Best Time to Hike?

The ideal time to hike the ridge trails is from April to June and September to October, when daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C. In summer (July and August), temperatures can exceed 35°C, making the uphill trek physically demanding. Winter hikes are possible but less common due to rain, wind, and shorter daylight hours.

The Gallipoli Campaign commemorations occur annually on 25 April, ANZAC Day, when thousands gather at dawn services at Anzac Cove. While the ridges are open, access may be restricted for ceremonies, so avoid planning a full ridge hike on this date unless you are attending the service.

Sunrise hikes are particularly rewarding, offering soft light over the Aegean and cooler conditions. Sunset walks are also popular but require early planning due to limited lighting on the trails.

Historical Context: Why These Ridges Matter

The ridges above Anzac Cove were the focus of intense fighting during the Gallipoli Campaign, a failed Allied offensive aimed at securing a sea route to Russia. After the initial landing on 25 April 1915, Allied forces struggled to advance inland due to rugged terrain, Ottoman resistance, and supply issues. The ridges became symbolic of both futile assaults and remarkable acts of bravery.

On 6–10 August 1915, the Battle of Chunuk Bair saw New Zealand soldiers, part of the New Zealand and Australian Division, reach the summit under cover of darkness and hold it for two days—until a counterattack by Mustafa Kemal’s forces reclaimed the ridge. The capture and loss of Chunuk Bair remain among the campaign’s most pivotal moments.

Lone Pine, named for a lone Turkish pine tree that stood before the battle, became the site of an Australian offensive on 6 August 1915. The battle lasted five days, resulting in over 2,000 Australian casualties. Today, the Lone Pine Cemetery stands as a tribute to those who fought there.

The Nek, a narrow strip of land between two ridges, was the target of a tragic Allied assault on 7 August 1915. Australian light horsemen charged across open ground toward Ottoman trenches, only to be cut down by machine-gun fire within minutes. The site is now marked by a monument and remains a solemn reminder of the campaign’s human cost.

The Gallipoli Campaign ultimately ended in withdrawal in January 1916. Today, the ridge trails allow visitors to reflect on the bravery and sacrifice of those who served, while walking the same paths they once did under fire. For a deeper understanding, visit the Wikipedia — Gallipoli Campaign.

Safety Tips and Responsible Hiking

While the ridge trails are relatively safe, they are not without risk. Stay on marked paths to avoid unexploded ordnance—remnants of artillery and mining operations from 1915 are occasionally uncovered and disposed of by authorities. If you see warning signs or barriers, do not cross them.

Avoid touching or removing any historical artefacts or stones. These are protected under Turkish law and form part of the peninsula’s heritage.

Be respectful at all memorials and cemeteries. Silence is observed, and photography should be discreet, especially during ceremonies.

Consider hiring a licensed guide from Eceabat or Çanakkale, who can provide historical context and ensure safe navigation. Many tours include transport, ferry tickets, and entry to the Gallipoli Peninsula Historical National Park.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it take to hike from Anzac Cove to Chunuk Bair?

It takes approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours to walk the 4-kilometre route uphill, depending on your pace and how often you stop to read memorials or take in the views.

Q: Are the ridge trails suitable for children?

The trails are rugged and include steep sections, so they are best suited for children aged 10 and older who are comfortable with hiking. Always supervise young hikers closely.

Q: Is there an entrance fee to walk the ridge trails?

Access to the Gallipoli Peninsula Historical National Park, including the ridge trails, is free of charge. However, ferry tickets from Eceabat to Kabatepe or Anzac Cove are required and typically cost around 50–80 Turkish Lira per person.

Further reading: Wikipedia — Gallipoli Campaign.