50K - DAMSA
A Journey Beyond a Race in the Heart of Ürgüp
The 50K, the longest, most prestigious, and most challenging leg of the Gomeda Ultra Trail, is specifically designed for experienced trail runners who want to experience the region's natural, historical, and cultural depths. This leg, considered the main route of the race, is not only a physical challenge but also a symbol of a deep connection to the multilayered spirit of Cappadocia.
Route Starting Point: Mustafapaşa
The start is from the town of Mustafapaşa (formerly Sinasos) in Nevşehir, a town distinguished by its historical and architectural heritage. Known for its Greek architecture, stone houses, and narrow streets, Mustafapaşa offers runners a cultural backdrop, immersing them in a time warp from the very beginning.
Mustafapaşa;
Üzengi Valley;
Ayvalı Village;
Bahçeli Village;
Cemil Village;
Taşkınpaşa Village
Damsa Dam; Mustafapaşa;
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Track Name: Gomeda Ultra Trail 50K
Location: Nevşehir – Mustafapaşa (Sinasos), Cappadocia region
Total Distance: 50 km (±0.5% tolerance)
Altitude Gain/Loss: +1650m / –1650m
Difficulty Level: Difficult – Intermediate to Advanced (due to technical sections and long distance)
Track Type: Loop: Mustafapaşa ascent – nature and historical trails – Mustafapaşa return
Track Features
Start/Finish Point: Mustafapaşa center
Route:
Natural trails along the Gomeda Valley and its tributaries
Üzengi Creek crossings (excavated and rocky areas)
Pancarlık and Taşkınpaşa Valleys: panoramic rocky passes
Path surrounded by ancient Greek settlements and stone houses Route
Technical passages such as caves and rocky outcrops
Ground Structure:
65% natural path
20% rocky/stony areas
10% village roads (soil paving)
5% short asphalt passages
Technical Elevation Profile:
Minimum elevation: ~1116m
Maximum elevation: ~1477m
Two main ascent and descent segments (climbing from valley bottoms to high points and returning)
Technical descent: particularly around Üzengi Creek and cave passages
Support and Safety Details
Water & Nutrition Points:
A total of 4 intermediate stations (approximately every 13km) -
Additional support at the finish area
Signing System:
Reflective flags, directional arrows, and colored signs
Guidance (volunteers) at critical points
GPS QR-coded guidance board (optional)
Required Equipment List
Participants are required to bring the following items:
1L minimum water capacity (hydration system or bottle)
Mobile phone (for direct emergency communication)
Raincoat or windbreaker
Whistle (vuvuzela/bell type)
Emergency blanket (aluminum foil type, prevents heat loss)
Headlamp (usable for rest periods and crossing points)
Time Limit
The total completion time for the course is 12 hours. It is important to observe station closing times during the race.
Recommended Clothing & Equipment:
Running shoes: Tolerant of stony and slippery terrain
Leggings/pants: Useful in rocky passages and cave areas
Sun-protective headgear/glasses: Especially in open valley sections
GPS-enabled watch or app: Recommended for trail tracking and guidance support
GOOGLE MAP
https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1BQVMa_TYbXThdymuHkusIp9B12PnVW0&usp=sharing
KOMOOT MAP
https://www.komoot.com/tour/2471258584?share_token=aw1vKDP9rMKqhqr4zjaH3Ru89CscGHp4PQsoiCBVYzKOicFHAX&ref=wtd
NOTE; If the number of athletes in the 50K DAMSA category is below the minimum (10), this course will not be run. Athletes may transfer to the lower category, the 38K, if they wish, or a refund will be provided upon request.
