Discover Lebanon: Top Hiking Trails to Explore Plus961 - 8/12/2025 3:59:56 PM - GMT (+2 )
Lebanon is packed with diverse and enchanting hiking routes that offer everything from spiritual valleys to serene forests and dramatic mountain summits. Here are some of our most beloved trails:
1. Lebanon Mountain Trail (LMT)
Overview: A 470 km long-distance trail stretching from Andaket in the north to Marjayoun in the south, cutting through 76+ towns and villages with varied terrain.
Experience: Hike in segments or tackle the entire route, staying in charming guesthouses along the way.
Highlights: Traverse through Qadisha Valley and Cedars of God; explore side trails like Baskinta Literary Trail, Bkassine Pine Forest, or the Valley of Hell for dramatic landscapes and cultural depth.
2. Qadisha Valley (Kadisha Gorge)
Why Go: A UNESCO World Heritage gem filled with cliffside monasteries and lush scenery—one of Lebanon’s most spiritual and scenic hikes.
Insider Tip: Stay at Karaz or Beit Mirna guesthouses in Ehden for easy access and local hospitality.
3. Cedars of God & Bcharre Forest
Significance: Walk among ancient cedar trees that are symbols of Lebanese heritage—some dating back millennia.
Bonus: Combine with a visit to the Khalil Gibran museum in Bcharre for a cultural twist.
4. Al Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve
Scope: The largest natural reserve in Lebanon at 550 km², hosting cedar forests, 200 bird species, and rich biodiversity.
Why Hike: Trails of varying difficulty weave through serene cedar groves, panoramic viewpoints, and abundant flora and fauna.
Tannourine: Dense cedar forest and dramatic terrain—perfect for nature lovers.
Baatara Gorge: A jaw-dropping waterfall plunging 255 m into a limestone sinkhole—best experienced in spring when meltwater peaks.
6. Baskinta Literary Trail
Trail Profile: A 22–24 km themed route celebrating literary figures like Mikhail Naimy and Amin Maalouf—combined with beautiful views of Mount Sannine.
Why It Stands Out: Blends cultural immersion with scenic hiking and even offers snowshoeing in winter.
7. Bkassine Pine Forest
Landscape: Among Lebanon’s largest pine forests—ideal for peaceful walks Amid Jezzine and Niha.
Amazing Views: The 22 km trail from Jezzine to Niha offers sweeping views of the Mediterranean and lush valleys.
8. Hidden Gems & Nature Trails
Chouwen Trail to Blue Lagoon: In Jabal Moussa, a shaded moderate hike ending in a turquoise swimming spot.
Bentael Nature Reserve: Near Byblos, this reserve offers 18 well-marked trails through pine-oak woodlands—great for families.
Mseilha Walkway: A relaxed, scenic path near Batroun, with views of the historic Mseilha Fort—beginners friendly.
Kfour Springs Trail: In Keserwan, a 6 km easy hike through multi-tree forests with coastal vistas—ideal for a nature break close to Beirut.
Iron Oak Forest, Akkar: A golden-tinged forest trail through towering iron oaks—beautiful at sunset.
Ouyoun Orghosh & Sawfar: Perfect autumn hikes—filled with fall colors, springs, and cultural immersion.
