AllTrails.com has unveiled its list of the best hiking trails in Saudi Arabia, catering to outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. This list features eight meticulously curated hiking trails, providing a range of experiences from easy strolls to challenging climbs, all set against the backdrop of the Kingdom’s diverse landscapes.
1. Jabal Al-Nour via Ghar-e-Hira Trail
- Location: Mecca, Makkah
- Length: 1.0 km
- Difficulty: Hard
- Highlights: This trail climbs to Jabal Al-Nour, a significant site where the Prophet Muhammad meditated and received the first revelation of the Quran. It offers stunning views of the Haram Mosque and Mecca.
2. Gubaloovka OHV Trail
- Location: Near Riyadh
- Length: 95.6 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: An off-road route perfect for a day trip, this trail takes you through some of the most picturesque areas around Riyadh.
3. Jebel Sawda
- Location: Rijal Alma, `Asir
- Length: 13.7 km
- Difficulty: Hard
- Highlights: Known for its well-maintained path, this trail offers solitude and stunning views, traversing from dry, cactus-filled landscapes to mossy forests.
4. Kara Heritage Trail
- Location: Attaif, Makkah
- Length: 6.0 km
- Difficulty: Hard
- Highlights: This trail is known for its challenging terrain and beautiful views. Hikers should be prepared for fog and slippery conditions.
5. Ash Shafa Red Rock Ridge
- Location: Attaif, Makkah
- Length: 0.8 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: A short but scenic scramble offering beautiful views of surrounding peaks.
6. Al-Waba Crater
- Location: Near Taif
- Length: 3.1 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: This trail leads to a striking crater with an opaque lake, providing an otherworldly hiking experience.
7. Jabal Abyad
- Location: Bishah, `Asir
- Length: 3.7 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Known as the White Mount, this trail features a scramble section and offers breathtaking views of surrounding peaks.
8. Jebel Loop
- Location: Dammam, Eastern Province
- Length: 3.9 km
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: A relatively easy hike that offers a quick escape into nature with beautiful scenery.
…
Growing Interest in Hiking in Saudi Arabia
The unveiling of this list by AllTrails underscores the growing interest in hiking and adventure tourism in Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom’s diverse terrain, from the sand dunes of the Empty Quarter to the lush forests of Asir, provides an array of options for outdoor activities.
In addition to these trails, the Kingdom is home to several other noteworthy hiking destinations. AlUla, with its stunning rock formations and ancient heritage sites, offers numerous hiking paths that combine natural beauty with historical significance. The Red Sea Project also promises to be a major attraction for adventure enthusiasts, with plans for extensive hiking and outdoor activity infrastructure.
Saudi Arabia’s commitment to developing its tourism sector, as outlined in Vision 2030, is evident in the increasing number of well-maintained trails and outdoor facilities. This initiative not only aims to attract international tourists but also encourages local residents to explore and appreciate their natural heritage.
The diverse and unique hiking trails in Saudi Arabia present a compelling addition to travel itineraries. With AllTrails’ list, travel advisors can now offer their clients curated outdoor experiences that highlight the Kingdom’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether for adventure seekers or those looking for serene landscapes, Saudi Arabia’s trails offer something for every type of traveller.
…
Photos courtesy of Saudi Tourism Authority
