Best Hiking in Lebanon: Trails, Wadis, and Mountains

If your idea of hiking involves dodging mall kiosks and queueing for coffee in your gym kit, prepare for a delightful shock. Hiking in Lebanon isn't just a weekend filler; it's a full-blown affair with ancient cedar forests, monasteries tucked into cliffs like shy introverts, and scenic views so dramatic they might deserve their own soap opera.

This isn't your average trail stroll. We're talking about trekking the Lebanon Mountain Trail (LMT), ducking into Roman ruins mid-hike, and waving at shepherds like you're in a tourism brochure come to life.

Whether you're a trail-seasoned hiker or someone still Googling "What is altitude?", this guide's got you covered. And no, you won't need a sherpa, just a good pair of boots and an open mind.

What Are the Best Hiking Spots in Lebanon?

Right, let's skip to the good stuff. Lebanon is small, but its trails punch well above their weight. You're spoiled for choice with a buffet of landscapes: deep canyons, coastal views, cedar forests, and historic villages.

• Qadisha Valley: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that feels like a time machine with cliffs, hermit caves, and peaceful monasteries. It's one of the best hiking trails in Lebanon for a reason.
• Jabal Moussa Biosphere Reserve: Picture ancient Phoenician steps, the Lady of Lebanon viewpoints, and forests that seem to whisper secrets.
• Shouf Cedar Reserve: Lebanon's largest nature reserve and home to some of the country's oldest cedar trees. You'll smell the forest before you even arrive.
• Chouwen Lake Trail: Hidden inside the Jabal Moussa reserve, this one rewards you with a turquoise lake worthy of your phone's wallpaper.
• Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve: A misty escape near the north that feels like hiking through a Lebanese fairy tale.
• Horsh Hiyata Trail: Forest solitude for the anti-crowd hiker. Think mossy paths, singing birds, and not a selfie stick in sight.
• Wadi El Salib: A mix of ruin-hopping and wadi wandering. Don't expect signage; do expect bragging rights.
• Barouk to Maasser Cedar Trail: Classic Shouf: panoramic views, fragrant trees, and a vibe so peaceful your smartwatch might nod off.
• Baskinta Literary Trail (part of the LMT): Come for the beautiful trails, stay for the poetry. Yes, it's a hike with actual literature stops. LMTA nailed the concept.

Together, they form a Lebanese hiking bucket list that's as varied as it is picturesque. Lace-up; you've got some ground to cover.

Is Hiking in Lebanon Safe and Beginner-Friendly?

Short answer: mostly yes, unless you wander off trail thinking you're the next Bear Grylls. The Lebanon Mountain Trail and its side routes are well-marked, easy to follow, and increasingly supported by local ecotourism initiatives like LMTA and USAID-backed projects. Nature reserves like Jabal Moussa and Shouf are especially beginner-friendly with signage, maps, and even mobile coverage (on a good day).

But...

• Loose rocks are real, especially in the canyon-like paths of Qadisha or wilder wadis.
• Weather mood swings happen, bringing layers even in summer.
• Village dogs? Usually, there is more bark than bite, but keep your hiking stick handy.
• Solo hikes are doable, but a buddy or local guide can turn "mildly lost" into "expertly navigating".

Stick to well-known trails, trust the local advice, and remember: when in doubt, there's probably an app for that.

When's the Best Time to Hit the Trails?

Time your hike right, and Lebanon will put on a show. Time it wrong, and you'll be sweating through your socks or snowshoeing in a light jacket.

• Spring (March-May): Wildflowers bloom like they've got something to prove. Trails like Chouwen and Falougha are vibrant and full of flowing streams.
• Autumn (September–November): Gold-leaf trees, crisp air, and routes like Baskinta and Barouk become Instagram gold.
• Summer: Early morning treks in places like Ehden Reserve keep the heat at bay. High altitude is your friend.
• Winter: Yes, you can hike in the snow. Just stick to the upper LMT regions, bring gear, and accept that your photos will make your coastal friends jealous.

Basically, Lebanon is always in season; it just changes costumes.

How Long Are These Hikes, Really?

Whether you're a weekend warrior or a kilometre counter, Lebanon delivers at all lengths and levels.

• Short treks (under 3 hours): Perfect for families or "I forgot we were hiking today" energy. Try Jezzine's forest trails or a loop around Chouwen.
• Moderate hikes (4–6 hours): Jabal Moussa's loops or the Baskinta Literary Trail offer that Goldilocks "not too hard, not too soft" balance.
• Full-day hikes (7+ hours): Barouk to Maasser or deeper Qadisha routes demand stamina and snacks.
• Multi-day treks: The full Lebanon Mountain Trail stretches a whopping 470km from Marjayoun in the south to Qbaiyat in the north. This long-distance hiking trail is the Appalachian Trail of the Levant, just with more hummus.

Whichever you pick, plan your route, respect the weather, and don't forget to budget time for tea with locals. It's practically a landmark activity.

What Should You Pack and Wear on a Lebanese Hike?

Think practical, respectful, and ready for surprises.

• Footwear: Trail runners are fine for dry days; hiking boots are good if you're going off-route or expecting mud.
• Layers: Morning fog, midday sun, and mountain breezes are all part of the show. A windbreaker goes a long way.
• Backpack essentials:
  • 2 litres of water (or you'll be fantasising about fountains)
  • Local snacks (man'oushe> energy bars)
  • Map or trail app (download it; no one's trusting 4G up there)
  • Power bank (because of photos, obviously)

When walking through a village or near a monastery, lean conservative with your clothing. Lebanon blends modern and traditional, and a respectful nod to local culture is always a smart move.

Can Families and Kids Enjoy Hiking in Lebanon Too?

Absolutely. Just because you're carrying juice boxes instead of trekking poles doesn't mean you can't enjoy Lebanon's hiking trails. In fact, many reserves have gone out of their way to be family-friendly because nothing builds character like bribing a toddler to finish a loop with the promise of ice cream.

• The Ain Zhalta loop in Shouf is a brilliant pick: gentle paths, towering cedar trees, and zero chances of a meltdown over cliffs.
• Nature reserves often offer guided walks with an educational twist, so your kids might actually learn something on purpose!
• Avoid steep descents, rocky wadis, and anything that sounds like "technical" unless your six-year-old happens to be part mountain goat.
• Pack snacks. Pack more snacks. Then, pack snacks for the snacks. (Trust us.)

Hiking as a family is a great way to teach the younger generation about Lebanese culture, conservation, and the joy of walking uphill for hours to eat a sandwich on a rock. It's character-building for everyone.

Where Should You Go to Avoid the Crowds?

We get it; you're not hiking to hear someone else's Bluetooth speaker echoing through a cedar forest. If solitude and birdsong sound more appealing than queues at a scenic viewpoint, here's your anti-crowd guide.

• Head north to Horsh Hiyata Trail. It's scenic, peaceful, and refreshingly free from influencer poses.
• Wadi El Salib offers shady paths and ruin spotting without the tourist parade. Go midweek for full introvert points.
• Try Ain Tinta Trail, which is not the easiest to access, but it is worth it for the quaint mountain village atmosphere and near-total silence.
• Explore lesser-walked parts of the LMT, especially near Jezzine or Marjayoun. These regions blend natural beauty with local charm, and you might even stumble upon a friendly local offering of homemade fig jam.

Bonus tip: Sunrise and sunset hikes not only bring golden light and panoramic views but also significantly fewer people, just you, the mountains, and your breath clouding in the cool air.

How Much Does Hiking in Lebanon Cost?

If your wallet is still recovering from your last Beirut brunch, you'll be thrilled to know hiking in Lebanon is delightfully budget-friendly.

• Most hiking trails in Lebanon are free to access, including sections of the Lebanon Mountain Trail.
• Entry to a nature reserve like Jabal Moussa or Shouf usually costs under $10 and supports USAID-backed conservation and ecotourism efforts.
• Guided hikes range from $15 to $50, depending on length, terrain, and whether someone's carrying your backpack.
• Don't forget transport costs, especially if you're starting from Beirut. Shared taxis, car rentals, or bus routes vary.
• And yes, the post-hike snack stop (coffee and a mountain of carbs) is non-negotiable. Budget for it. You'll thank yourself.

So basically, nature's free, but hummus is extra.

What Are the Top Insider Tips for Hiking in Lebanon?

Hiking in Lebanon is magical, but only if you outsmart the mountains (and the mozzies). Here's how not to end up cold, lost, or hangry:

• Check the weather. Don't let the Mediterranean sun fool you. That canyon might be a river by afternoon.
• Start early. The views are better, the sun's gentler, and there's more chance of spotting wildlife than wild teenagers.
• Download your route. The LMT and many trails are well-marked, but the signal can be patchy. No one wants to play hide and seek with a 470km long-distance hiking trail.
• Respect local customs. Wave at locals, greet the village elders and keep your camp tidy. A little respect goes a long way in Lebanese culture.
• Say yes to juice. If someone in a hilltop house offers you fresh juice or pickled something, take it. It's not just hydration; it's hospitality.

May the Trail Be Ever in Your Favour

And there you have it: Lebanon's mountains, valleys, and cedar-covered secrets in one handy guide. Whether you're plotting the full Lebanon Mountain Trail or just fancy a loop near Beirut, there's a trail with your name (and probably a stray goat) on it. Happy hiking! May your boots be dry, your map be downloaded, and your snacks never run out.