From exotic rock formations, hot, but snowy, hikes, to hiking above the clouds on the highest mountain in the country and forging ahead on a one thousand-year-old trail, Saudi Arabia offers a wide range of hiking options in magnificent terrains
Jabal Alsoudah
Jabal Sawda, in Asir National Park, is thought to be Saudi’s tallest mountain peak. The spot is located 25 kilometers from the provincial capital of Abha. Jabal Sawda stands over 3,000 meters tall and offers various climbing, hiking and camping spots. Seasoned hikers can take the trail up or down the mountain, but there’s also a large walkway near the summit for strolling.
The Edge of the World
The Edge of the World, or Jebel Fihrayn, is aptly named. Located about a 90-minute drive outside Riyadh, it forms part of the vast Tuwaiq cliffs, which stretch over more than 600km through central Saudi. Reached through winding desert trails that run along a ridge of Tuwaiq, this spectacular spot offers uninterrupted views across the valley floor and to the horizon, from the edge of a sheer precipice. These dramatic views earned the site its nickname, and have helped turn it into one of Riyadh’s most popular tourist destinations.
Moon Valley
Moon Valley is an hour’s drive north of Jeddah. It is set within a stunning park where exotic rock formations have formed over millions of years. The area is also ideal for stargazing at night. Visitors can hike to see the sunset from the tip of Moon Mountain and then return to the camp site and enjoy the spectacular view, a barbecue dinner and Arabic coffee.
Jabal Al Lawz
Snow seekers should lace up their boots and venture to Jabal Al Lawz, which means ‘Almond Mountain’. Measuring 2,549 meters, it’s the tallest mountain in the Tabuk Province and the only place in Saudi where it snows almost every year — making it perfect for a winter hike. A wadi on the northwest of the peak is home to rare ancient carvings of elephants and bovines. Other nearby mountains that are known to get a blanket of snow each winter include Jabal Al Thahir and Jabal Alkan, in the small town of Alkan, a three-hour drive from Tabuk city.
The Caravan Trail (Aba AlQid)
The Caravan Trail is an ancient road estimated to be hundreds of years old. It is just 45 minutes away from Riyadh and used to be the only entrance to the city from the west. Approximately one km long, the road is steep and rocky with many turns. The trail has been rebuilt with a convenient staircase and a seating area with umbrellas, so visitors can enjoy the stunning views of Tuwaiq Mountain.
1000-Year-Old Camel Owners Trail
Take a hike through history: the Camel Owners Trail was initially established 10 centuries ago and later reinforced with large stones and zigzag architecture during the Ottoman Empire. This historic path is in Alhada Mountains and a 35-minute drive from Taif city.
