The canyon was declared a Nature Park by the Turkish Ministry of Forestry and Water Affairs in 2012.
The water depth within the canyon area reaches up to 100 meters due to the dam's influence.
The canyon is a habitat for the endangered Egyptian vulture.
The narrowest point of the canyon walls is approximately 106 meters apart.
The canyon is located on the path of the ancient Kızılırmak (Halys) River, which historically served as a natural border for the Hittite Empire.
Şahinkaya Kanyonu is the second-longest canyon in Türkiye, situated within the Altınkaya Dam lake reservoir in the Vezirköprü district of Samsun. The canyon stretches for approximately 2.5 kilometers with vertical rock faces reaching heights of up to 324 meters. It is a designated Nature Park characterized by its narrow gorge and turquoise waters. Access to the interior of the canyon is primarily facilitated by boat tours departing from the Vezirsuyu area. The area features a unique microclimate supporting diverse flora and fauna along the cliff sides. The canyon walls are formed of limestone, exhibiting distinct geological formations sculpted by the Kızılırmak River over millennia. It serves as a major hub for water-based recreational activities in the Black Sea region.
The upper observation deck located near the entrance point provides a panoramic view of the canyon entrance and the winding river.
Bring a hat and sunscreen as there is minimal shade while on the boats.
Carry a light windbreaker even in summer, as the gorge creates a distinct corridor for wind.
Bring binoculars for spotting raptors nesting in the high cliff crevices.
Avoid relying on private vehicles to explore the gorge; boat transit is the only way to experience the interior of the canyon.
Maintain silence during boat transit to avoid disturbing local wildlife and nesting birds.
