Jeomorfolojik Araştırmalar Dergisi

Öz

Örenler Canyon is located in the Sandıklı district of Afyonkarahisar province in the Inner Western Anatolia region. While the canyon offers important data on the region’s tectonic and geomorphological development, it also stands out as an attractive destination for nature tourism and recreational activities. This study, it is aimed to reveal the formation, development, geomorphological features of the surrounding area, and geomorphotourism potential of Örenler Canyon, which is one of the alternative tourism destinations in Afyonkarahisar, one of the important centers of thermal tourism. Based primarily on field observations, the study provides insights into the canyon's formation and its tourism value. To reveal the canyon's geomorphosite characteristics and tourism potential, the 'Geosite Preliminary Evaluation Model (GAM)' has been used. According to this model, the canyon, which scored 9 points for main values and 6 points for additional values, is located in cell Z32 of the GAM matrix. This indicates that the canyon has high scientific/educational, natural/aesthetic, and conservation values, but is relatively underdeveloped in terms of functional and tourism values.These results show that Örenler Canyon and its surroundings possess suitable natural resources for geomorphotourism. The canyon is one of the rare locations where active morpho-tectonics is currently ongoing, and where the effects of erosion-deposition surfaces, fault scarps, and tectonic tilting can be clearly observed. It has a length of approximately 4 km and a depth reaching 300 m. With its asymmetric steep slopes, meander bends, hanging valleys, rockfalls, slope debris, remnants of limestone columns, and tafoni, it displays a unique morphology. Additionally, due to the visibility of neotectonic, erosion, and deposition processes in a confined area, it holds significant scientific and educational value as a geomorphosite. Moreover, its valley, which contains water throughout most seasons, along with its diverse environmental features and rich biodiversity, has developed a unique ecosystem, making it an important area for ecotourism. With its unique features, the canyon presents an intriguing appearance, offering an ideal environment for activities such as landscape viewing, nature walks, photography, birdwatching, and nature observation. It is also a destination worth exploring and promoting for nature lovers and researchers. Despite all these features, the canyon is not sufficiently recognized, and its tourism potential is not being effectively utilized. In this regard, a detailed analysis of the canyon's formation, geomorphological features, and its tourism potential, supported by scientific data, would make a valuable contribution to promoting the region. On the other hand, the inadequacy of tourism infrastructure and investments in the region prevents the utilization of this potential. In order to overcome these deficiencies, infrastructure development and a comprehensive planning process are needed.