Tar Deresi Bulut Waterfall is a natural wonder located within the boundaries of Kaçkar Mountains National Park in Çamlıhemşin, Rize. With a total height reaching nearly 250 meters, it is considered one of the tallest cascading waterfalls in Türkiye.
The waterfall flows down four distinct tiers, making it almost impossible to view the entire structure from a single point.
In this guide, you’ll find clear and up-to-date answers to the most frequently searched questions—Where is Tar Deresi Bulut Waterfall? How do you get there? How long is the hiking trail? What is the difficulty level? Can you camp?
Tar Deresi Bulut Waterfall is located in the valley carved by the stream it is named after. The water originates from the melting snow and ice around Altıparmak Mountain (3,492 m), one of the prominent peaks of the Kaçkar range.
The waterfall lies within the Tar Deresi Bulut Waterfall Natural Monument area and is officially protected by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry.
Key features include:
~250 meters total height
Four cascading stages
Dense forest surroundings
Designated natural monument status
These characteristics make Tar Deresi Bulut Waterfall one of the most striking destinations in the Black Sea region—for nature lovers, photographers, and trekking enthusiasts alike.
The waterfall drops from nearly 250 meters over four separate levels.
Because of its height, the upper section often appears to meet or compete with the clouds. Even on clear days, the waterfall looks as if it is pouring straight out of the clouds.
For this reason, the name “Bulut Waterfall”—meaning Cloud Waterfall—comes from its towering height and cloud-touching appearance. This effect is especially impressive when viewed from the lower basin.
Province: Rize
District: Çamlıhemşin
Location: Şimşirli / Kaplıca Village – Tolikço area
Distance to Çamlıhemşin: ~11–13 km
Distance to Ayder Plateau: ~8 km
The waterfall is situated within Ayder Valley, along the Ayder road, inside the Tar Deresi Bulut Waterfall Natural Monument zone.
Drive from Rize city center toward Çamlıhemşin.
From Çamlıhemşin, follow the road toward Ayder Plateau.
After about 15–20 minutes, you’ll see signs for Bulut Şelalesi / Tar Deresi on the left.
Park your vehicle in the designated area and enter the walking trail.
The trail is approximately 1.8–2 km long and consists of:
Forest pathways
Riverside sections
Wooden platforms
Small suspension bridges
Walking time: 30–45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy – Moderate
Along the way you’ll find:
Resting spots
Small viewpoints
Clearings suitable for resting (not for camping)
Wooden bridges over the stream
Take a minibus from Rize or Pazar to Çamlıhemşin.
From Çamlıhemşin, minibuses heading toward Ayder can drop you near the waterfall turn-off.
From the road junction, you must continue on foot via the hiking trail.
Approximately 250 meters total height
Four cascading levels
Average width: about 5 meters
Natural pool at the base up to 3 meters deep
This dramatic multi-step structure is why the waterfall is often referred to as one of Türkiye’s highest cascading waterfalls.
The waterfall is fed by snowmelt and rainfall coming from the high-altitude slopes of Altıparmak Mountain and the Kaçkar range.
Tar Stream flows through:
Upper and lower Kaçkar Plateaus
Lodiçur Plateau
Dense mixed forests
before joining the greater Fırtına Valley.
The Ayder – Tar Deresi Bulut Waterfall route is promoted as one of the most popular trekking paths in the area:
Round trip: ~2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Lush green forest, riverside walking, waterfall viewpoints
Because of its multi-tiered structure, the waterfall offers many different perspectives depending on where you stand. It is ideal for wide-angle, long-exposure, and drone photography.
As noted in official information, rest areas are available along the trail.
At the waterfall basin, you’ll find:
A natural pool
Areas designated for sitting and relaxing
⚠️ Important:
Swimming is not recommended due to strong currents and the pool’s unpredictable depth. Dipping your feet for a refreshing break is a safer choice.
Spring (April–May): High water flow; dramatic scenery but be cautious of rain.
Summer (June–September): The most comfortable season for hiking and photography.
Autumn (October): Beautiful yellow tones and misty landscapes.
Winter: Heavy rain and ice may make the trail dangerous—follow official warnings and trail signs.
You can combine Tar Deresi Bulut Waterfall with the following attractions:
Ayder Plateau – Hot springs, viewpoints, restaurants
Zil Kale – One of the most iconic historical fortresses in Fırtına Valley
Palovit Waterfall – Another high-flow Karadeniz waterfall
Şenyuva (Çinçiva) Bridge – A historic stone arch bridge surrounded by traditional village scenery
For a more relaxed schedule, you may want to plan the surrounding attractions for the next day.
1. How tall is Tar Deresi Bulut Waterfall?
It has an approximate total height of 250 meters and consists of four tiers.
2. Is it really Türkiye’s highest waterfall?
Many sources present it as the highest cascading waterfall in Türkiye. While the official title is debated, it is generally accepted as one of the highest waterfalls in both the Black Sea region and the country.
3. Is there an entrance fee?
Sometimes a symbolic entrance fee is charged for the natural monument area. Fees may vary by season, so checking with Çamlıhemşin Municipality or local businesses is recommended.
4. Is the trail suitable for children and the elderly?
The trail is rated easy to moderate. It can be slippery in spots, so proper footwear and extra caution are necessary. Frequent breaks are recommended for seniors and small children.
5. Can you camp at Tar Deresi Bulut Waterfall?
Camping is not allowed due to the area’s natural monument status. Visitors must follow environmental rules and posted warnings.
6. Why is it called “Bulut (Cloud) Waterfall”?
Because its upper section rises close to the clouds and often appears to merge with them, giving the impression of a waterfall descending from the sky.
Tar Deresi Bulut Waterfall is not just impressive because of its height—it stands out for its forested atmosphere, riverside walking trail, and convenient location within the Ayder–Çamlıhemşin route.
Staying overnight in Ayder and setting out early in the morning for a peaceful walk,
Reaching the waterfall and watching its cloud-touching flow,
Then combining the day with stops like Zil Kale, Palovit Waterfall, and Şenyuva Bridge,
creates a complete and unforgettable Black Sea travel experience—even for first-time visitors.