Hiking Trails

Aakkar district

Qobbayat

LMT 1A Qobbayat - Tashea

Trail length 18,5 kmNorth to South From Qobbayat to Tashea Total ascent 1216m&nbsp; Total descent 642m Level of difficulty Very DifficultSouth to North From Tashea to Qobbayat Total ascent 642m&nbsp; Total descent 1216m Level of difficulty DifficultLeave the monastery and walk along the paved road. Continue following the marks until you reach the dirt road on your left. Then walk along this road and follow the water canal passing by Ain el Sitt spring. Continue on to the Deir Mar Challita monastery, crossing the paved road and passing by Nabaa el Abiad spring. The trail then crosses a pine forest and climbs toward Mar Sarkis and Bakhos church ruins. Continue on the dirt road than take a single track to Byout Zabboud, walk the hamlet and walk toward Nabaa Zabboud. pass the spring and start to climb toward the Black Forest passing by Ain Tabet and a hamlet, take a dirt road that will lead you to el Qammouaa plateau main paved road. Please note that at this point the trail is not yet fixed at its end, the old track after Mar Sarkis and Bakhos churches is still marked to the end over Tashea, these marks will be removed soon.&nbsp;Important to know - There are no dangerous or difficult passages along this section; the trail consists of dirt and paved roads, footpath and goat trails. - This section is partly marked (Qobbayat side) - There are other way marking signs along this section (green and blue), if you are using the LMT trails stay always on the white and purple marking.&nbsp; - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at <a href="mailto:info@lebanontrail.org">info@lebanontrail.org</a> and ask for the GPS track. - If you wish to stay in any of the villages, contact the guesthouses or the guide few days before starting your trip.&nbsp;Getting there Take the coastal highway northbound from Tripoli. At el Abdeh, take the right hand fork towards Halba. At Halba, you can either go left to el Qobbayat or right to Aakkar el Aatiqa and Tashea.&nbsp; Once you reach Qobbayat, ask for “<a href="https://www.bamleb.com/guide/other-lodging/les-demeures">Les Demeures</a>” lodge next to the Carmelite monastery. All roads are paved, and public transport is available to Qobbayat and Aakkar el Aatiqa. The LMT is accessible from all these villages.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Batroun district

Douma

LMT Douma Side Trail P1

Trail length 6,3 kmNorth to South From Baatara to Douma via Sikket el Sham Total ascent 213m&nbsp; Total descent 691m Level of difficulty ModerateSouth to North From Douma&nbsp;to Baatara via Sikket el Sham Total ascent 691m&nbsp; Total descent 213m Level of difficulty Very DifficultThe Douma side trail is a loop. Both ends begin in Douma square and end in the natural site of Baatara Sinkhole. One segment of the trail follows the Damascus Way, known in Arabic as “Sikket el Sham”, the ancient trade road that once linked Damascus to the coast of Lebanon via Douma. The other segment climbs through Foghri mountain. To go from Douma square to Baatara Sinkhole via “Sikket El Sham” (Damascus Way), head north east to the olive press. Take the footpath then the paved road to reach Ain Aakfol. Continue north east for about 4km. Climb the stairs of “Sikket el Sham”. Follow the blazes through “Jouret el Maqtoul” plain and along the mountain ridge to the highest point on this segment of the trail. Enjoy the scenic view of the highlands of Tannourine and Laqlouq. Walk downward on a well delineated path for about 1km to reach the natural site of Baatara sinkhole. At this point, you can either head back to Douma toward the village of Chatine, or continue on the trail to El Aaqoura. To go from Douma square to Baatara Sinkhole via Foghri mountain, follow the main village road to reach Douma Club. At the club, turn right and climb toward Foghri mountain. Continue to Ain El Faouqa, el Melki tomb and the cherry orchards. Follow the blazes through El Ghommas plain to the highest point on this segment of the trail. Enjoy the panoramic views of the highlands of Tannourine and Laqlouq. Continue your hike on a karstic path, until you reach the intersection with LMT section 10 linking Tannourine to El Aaqoura. Walk south to reach the natural site of Baatara Sinkhole. At this point, you can either head west back to Douma or follow the trail to El Aaqoura.Important to know - There are some slippery passages and steep descents along this section; the trail consists of dirt and paved roads, footpaths, goat trails.&nbsp; - This section is completely marked.&nbsp; - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@lebanontrail.org">info@lebanontrail.org</a>&nbsp;and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay, contact the guesthouse or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there From Beirut, take the coastal highway north to Tripoli. Exit at Batroun and take the highway to Tannourine. Before reaching Tannourine&nbsp; el Tahta, turn right and continue to Douma.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Matn district

Baskinta

LMT Baskinta Literary Trail

Trail length 24 kmNorth to South From Saydet el Niyah Convent to&nbsp;Mikhail Naimy Mausoleum Total ascent 1459m Total descent 1129m Level of difficulty Very DifficultSouth to North From&nbsp;Mikhail Naimy Mausoleum&nbsp;to&nbsp;Saydet el Niyah Convent Total ascent 1129m&nbsp; Total descent 1459m Level of difficulty Very DifficultThe Baskinta Literary Trail is a novel idea with something for everyone! The trail, 24-km long, invites you to discover 22 literary landmarks related to several acclaimed poets and novelists from the region including Mikhail Naimy, Amin Maalouf, Abdallah Ghanem, Suleiman Kettaneh, Rachid Ayoub and Georges Ghanem.&nbsp; You can start your hike at any of the designated entry points on the BLT, clearly indicated on the map and marked on the trail with information panels, and spend two or three days in Baskinta and the nearby villages of Ain el Qabou, Kfar Aqab, Wadi el Karm, and Boqaatat Kenaan. We encourage you to discover the trail with a trained local guide.The BLT starts and ends at el Chakhroub in front of the Memorial Garden of Mikhail Naimy at the heights of Baskinta, as well as at Saydet el Niyah convent in Bqaatouta. It extends on more than 24km passing thru Baskinta, Ain el Qabou, El Machraa, Kfar Aqab, Ouadi el Karm, Kfartay, Boqaatet Kenaan, and Bqaatouta. The most famous part is between el Chakhroub and Baskinta town, it extends on 7km passing by the summer home of Mikhail Naimy, Roman inscription, Cave of Sayf el Dawla, Sleiman Kettaneh family home, Saydet el Khalleh church and Abdallah Ghanem cultural center.&nbsp;Please note there is a project to open a road between Saydet el Khalle church and Abdallah Ghanem Cultural center in Baskinta.Important to know - There are some difficult passages on this section; the trail consists of paved roads, dirt roads, footpath, goat trails and water canals. - This section is partly marked from Mikhael Naimi Garden side (7 km) - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@lebanontrail.org">info@lebanontrail.org</a>&nbsp;and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay and your hike, contact the guesthouse or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there From Beirut to Baskinta, take the coastal highway to Antelias, then join the main road up to Bikfaya.&nbsp;After passing through Bikfaya, turn right on the road to Kenchara, Bteghrine, and Ouadi el Jamajem.&nbsp;You enter Baskinta as the road climbs out of the deep valley to reach the main square, continue to reach el Chakhroub.&nbsp;Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Jezzine district

Jezzine

LMT 22 Jezzine - Aaitanit

Trail length 15 kmNorth to South From Jezzine to Aaitanit Total ascent 951m&nbsp; Total descent 881m Level of difficulty DifficultSouth to North From Aaitanit to Jezzine Total ascent 881m&nbsp; Total descent 951m Level of difficulty DifficultFrom the signposts near Jezzine main spring, take the road up to the Jezzine steps and then continue climbing until you reach a concrete road, follow the marks taking a footpath and turn left&nbsp; at the top to follow a dirt road, few meters later take a nice footpath to the right and back again on a dirt road. Once you are at the bed river turn right along the right bank of the stream, follow the path which is mostly cleared that runs beside the water pipe. Cross the stream several times before entering an umbrella pine forest. Continue climbing up the dirt road until you reach the hunting ground before turning right down a sandy road. Continue straight on an open footpath before climbing up a steep ascent along an un-cleared path, reaching a dirt road on the saddle of the mountain go left next to the treche and follow the dirt road to the east-north and take the first right exit by following the marks. From there, you will start descending towards Aitanit along a footpath until you reach a small flat land from where you can continue to the dirt road. Walk down to the village, ending your section at the village spring.Important to know - There are no difficult passages along this section; the trail consists of dirt roads, footpaths and goat trails. - This section is completely marked.&nbsp; - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@lebanontrail.org">info@lebanontrail.org</a>&nbsp;and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay and hike, contact the guesthouse or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there To reach Jezzine, take the coastal highway southbound from Beirut to Saida. When you reach Saida, take the bypass to avoid the congested downtown area and follow the signposting until you reach the left turn to Jezzine after the third traffic circle. The road passes through the villages of Abra, Kfar Falous and Rom as you climb up to Jezzine. To reach Aaitanit, take the Damascus highway into the Bekaa Valley. At Chtaura turn right to Aaitanit, passing by Kefraya and Saghbine. All roads are paved and public transportation is available to both places.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Hasbaya district

Hasbaya

LMT 26 Hasbaya - Marjeyoun

Trail length 16 kmNorth to South From Qobbayat to Tashea Total ascent 517m&nbsp; Total descent 521m Level of difficulty Challenging (5h30)South to North From Tashea to Qobbayat Total ascent 521m&nbsp; Total descent 517m Level of difficulty Challenging (5h30)Start the walk near the Chehabi castle and follow the marks through the town until you start to leave it behind through the tiny streets to the north-east. Follow the marks until you leave the paved road and then turn right downhill on an agriculture road to reach a cleared foot path. Continue down it as far as the oak forest on your right hand to reach a dirt road. From there continue to the village of Abou Qamha and once you reach the main church square, go down the steps past the spring to a dirt road that leads to the main paved road. Continue straight on this road for a short distance and then climb up to the right along an agriculture road and follow to the right a nice path that will lead you to a dirt road and on to el Hasbani river. Cross the river on the concrete level barrage and to the other side of the river (the water level might be high in spring and winter), continue through the orchard near the water canal until you reach the caravanserai. Cross the paved road and take the dirt road that climbs up near the UN base. From there walk down left on a concrete road than right on a paved road that leads you to the pine forest of Hima Ebl el Saqi. Continue walking through the forest on the foot path than reach a dirt road and through the village. From the Norwegian museum turn right&nbsp; and follow the marks to a paved road. Continue straight and follow a dirt road to reach the main paved road next to the water plant. Cross the road ,walk a short way before climbing up to the right on another steep dirt road. Once you reach the hill follow the marks to the main street which will lead you straight to the main Marjayoun village square.Important to know - There are no difficult passages along this section; the trail consists of dirt and paved roads, footpaths and goat trails. - This section is completely marked.&nbsp; - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at <a href="mailto:info@lebanontrail.org">info@lebanontrail.org</a> and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay, contact the guesthouse or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there From Beirut, take the coastal highway south past Saida. At Zahrani, take the left to Nabatiyeh and from there continue along the main road through the village of Kfar Tibnit and on past the Beaufort castle. At the intersection of Tel el Nouhas, make a left turn to head north to Marjayoun, Ibl es Saqi, Kawkaba and Hasbaya.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Bkassine

LMT Bkassine Side Trail P1

Trail length 7,5 kmNorth to South From Bkassine to Niha Fort Total ascent 298m&nbsp; Total descent 678m Level of difficulty Very Difficult&nbsp;South to North From Niha Fort&nbsp;to Bkassine Total ascent 678m&nbsp; Total descent 298m Level of difficulty Very DifficultThe Bkassine side trail is U-shaped. Both ends start at Bkassine main square, one segment heading towards Jezzine village and the second towards Niha fort. To go from Mar Takla church in Bkassine square to Niha fort, head east following the footpaths and dirt roads to reach the abandoned village of Kfar Taala. Continue towards the river bed, crossing the old bridge next to the water mill, then climb towards Aaray village. Follow the blazes to reach el Moukhalles Convent in Bhannine, then go uphill to the paved road between Bater and Jezzine and further up past Ain el Malayke until you reach Niha fort entrance at the Shouf Biosphere Reserve. To go from Mar Takla church in Bkassine square to Jezzine, head west to Bkassine pine forest. Turn left at La Maison de La Forêt then climb again into Bkassine pine forest to reach the paved road of Jezzine – Bkassine. Cross the road and climb up past Ain el Toghra, Jezzine country club and continue over to Ain el Zaarour. Walk for about 2km to a scenic overlook and enjoy the view to the West overlooking the sea. Walk downhill past Ain el Ouasta to Ouadi el Manzoul where old terraces are scattered along the stream until you reach the main Jezzine - Kfarhouna road. Continue uphill past Serhal palace through a beautiful forest. From there start your descent toward Jezzine.Important to know - There are no difficult passages along this section; the trail consists of dirt roads, footpaths and goat trails. - This section is completely marked.&nbsp; - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@lebanontrail.org">info@lebanontrail.org</a>&nbsp;and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay and hike, contact the guesthouse or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there From Beirut, take the coastal highway south to Saida. From Saida, take the road towards Jezzine. Past Roum and Homsiyeh villages, take a turn to the left towards Bkassine.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Rachaya district

Rachaya el Wadi

LMT 25 Rachaya el Wadi - Hasbaya

Trail length 24 kmNorth to South From Rachaya el Wadi to Hasbaya Total ascent 739m&nbsp; Total descent 1242m Level of difficulty Very Difficult (8hrs)South to North From Hasbaya to Rachaya el Wadi Total ascent 1242m&nbsp; Total descent 739m Level of difficulty Very Difficult (8hrs)From Rachaya el Wadi main square, follow the road that leads to the army barracks and Rachaya Castle. Continue along the narrow roads to leave the town and then take a dirt road that will lead you to a footpath. At the end, take a short walk towards the paved road and continue along it for thirty to forty minutes before reaching the hamlet of el Feqaa. Then take a small road to the right in the direction of the goat farm and from there, a footpath that will end at the beginning of the valley. Start climbing up into the valley and continue for an hour along on nice footpath before reaching the top of the hill. Then take the dirt road and follow it between the orchards to Ain Aata village. Go through the village on the paved road and then take the dirt road along the ridge line before leaving it at the point where you take the un-cleared footpath towards the valley as far as the pine tree line. Then go down the dirt road and follow the metal fences, taking the un-cleared path downhill to reach the cleared footpath that leads you into an oak forest. Continue to the dirt road and then turn left and follow it, passing by the hill lake and continuing down to Ain Tenta village. Pass by the village spring and walk through the village to the concrete road. Continue walking down on this road before leaving it at the umbrella pine forest where you can make a left turn on a cleared footpath to the valley. Pass below Ain Tenta cave and follow the path which will lead you across the stream. From there, make your way to the dirt road following an uncleared path under some pine trees as far as the crossroads. Cross the stream and make a right turn on a dirt road than concrete road to the bottom of the valley before going up the paved road to reach Ain Qenia village. Go along the paved road for a few meters and then take the left turn near the petrol station which will lead you down to the town of Hasbaiya. The section finishes at the Chehabi castle.&nbsp;Important to know - There are no difficult passages along this section; the trail consists of dirt and paved roads, footpaths and goat trails. - This section is completely marked.&nbsp; - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at info@lebanontrail.org and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay, contact the guesthouse or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there To reach Rachaya el Wadi and Hasbaya, take the Damascus highway from Beirut to the Beqaa Valley. Continue on the main highway across the valley to Majdel Aanjar. And before reaching the border post at Masnaa, turn right passing by the village of Sultan Yacoub. At Dahr el Ahmar, turn left to go to Rachaiya or right to continue on southwards to Hasbaya.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

LMT 1 Qobbayat - Qammouaa

Trail length 15 kmNorth to South From Qobbayat to Qammouaa Total ascent 1200m&nbsp; Total descent 129m Level of difficulty Difficult (5h30)Leave the monastery and walk along the paved road. Continue following the marks until you reach the dirt road on your left. Then walk along this road and follow the water canal passing by Ain el Sitt spring. Continue on to the Deir Mar Challita monastery, crossing the paved road and passing by Nabaa el Abiad spring. The trail then crosses a pine forest and climbs toward Mar Sarkis and Bakhos church ruins. Continue on the dirt road than take a single track to Byout Zabboud, walk the hamlet and walk toward Nabaa Zabboud. pass the spring and start to climb toward the Black Forest passing by Ain Tabet and a hamlet, take a dirt road that will lead you to el Qammouaa plateau main paved road. &nbsp;South to North From Qammouaa to Qobbayat Total ascent 642m&nbsp; Total descent 1216m Level of difficulty DifficultFrom Qobbayat el Qammouaa main road, follow the marking to an impasse then walk along the uncleared path to the dirt road. Continue along this dirt road until you reach a shepherd’s farm then continue along the uncleared path until you reach the spring of Ain Tabet. From there, follow the footpath downhill passing thru a pine forest. At the dirt road intersection, take a right turn and continue on downhill following the marks where the path is not cleared anymore.&nbsp;Continue over a flat rock formation until you reach the Ain Zabboud spring, then follow a water canal downhill until you reach some isolated houses on a dirt road. Continue straight on and then take a left turn and walk a few meters before taking a right turn along an uncleared dirt road until you reach the top of the hill. From there, walk along a tiny footpath that crosses a dry stream to the right and then follow the dirt road that will take you to Mar Sarkis and Bakhos churches.&nbsp;From there, take a winding path to the paved road, walk along it past a few houses before taking a cleared footpath that reaches Nabaa el Abiad spring. From there, take the paved road and enter the parking of Saint Chalita Church. Before reaching the metal door entrance, take the paved road to the right and pass a metal door before following a footpath that connects with a water canal. Continue until you &nbsp;reach a dirt road leading to the resort of Graneroverde. Pass it and follow the water canal to the Ain el Sitt spring and from there, continue along it before going left onto the paved road which you follow as far as el Carmel monastery where section 1 ends.Important to know -There are no dangerous or difficult passages along this section; the trail consists of dirt and paved roads, footpath and goat trails. - This section is partly marked (el Qoubaiyat side) - There are other way marking signs along this section (green and blue), if you are using the LMT trails stay always on the white and purple marking.&nbsp; - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at <a href="mailto:info@lebanontrail.org">info@lebanontrail.org</a> and ask for the GPS track. - If you wish to stay in any of the villages, contact the guesthouses or the guide few days before starting your trip.&nbsp;Getting there Take the coastal highway northbound from Tripoli. At el Abdeh, take the right hand fork towards Halba. At Halba, you can either go left to el Qoubaiyat or right to Aakkar el Aatiqa and Tashea.&nbsp;Once you reach el Qoubaiyat, ask for “<a href="https://www.bamleb.com/guide/other-lodging/les-demeures">Les Demeures</a>” lodge next to the Carmelite monastery. All roads are paved, and public transport is available to el Qoubaiyat and Akkar el Atiqa. The LMT is accessible from all these villages.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Qammouaa

LMT 2 Qammouaa - Qemmamine

Trail length 26 kmNorth to South From Qammouaa to Qemmamine Total ascent 1053m&nbsp; Total descent 1392m Level of difficulty Very Difficult (9h)The trail starts where section 1 ends, on the road between Karm Chbat and el Qammouaa plateau, the trail goes down on darb el Inkliz (The British road) and immerse into the Juniper, Cedars and Fir forests, it crosses 2 springs (Ouadi el Blat and el Hajal) before reaching the heart of Jabal el Aarouba, the trail continue to reach the dirt road after several kilometres&nbsp;crossed, go right downward to reach the paved road, cross it and take another dirt road until you reach the communication tower, take a footpath right reaching the cliff (Chir Kezbar), cross it down toward a dirt road, continue and pass by a beautiful plain surrounded with juniper trees, past by it and reach the paved road at al Ayoun, take a dirt road passing by Ain el Hajal toward Ouadi Hakl el Kherbeh, once you reach the bottom of the valley take a footpath to the right, continue downward until&nbsp;you cross the river, climb&nbsp;and take a dirt road to reach Nabaa Kef el Tine, pass it to the other side and take a newly&nbsp;opened road leading to el Qemmamine village, this section ends at the village spring.&nbsp; &nbsp;South to North From Qammouaa to Qemmamine Total ascent 1392m&nbsp; Total descent 1053m&nbsp; Level of difficulty Very Difficult (9h)From the spring follow the narrow street of the village towards the river, passing by a small concrete bridge. Continue on before going to the right after passing a few houses and then descend toward the river. Continue upwards and take the cleared footpath on into the forest until you reach a dirt road. Once you get to the Nabaa Kef el Tine spring, pass it and walk along the dirt road. Make two turns and leave the dirt road to the left going towards the river. Once you’ve crossed it, take the cleared footpath towards some deserted houses, pass them, and continue past some more until you reach a dirt road. Then go left and start your ascent to reach Ain el Njass spring before continuing along a paved road. Then follow a dirt road which &nbsp;passes by a flat piece of land called Sahl el Karm. &nbsp;Continue winding along the dirt road and then start climbing up the cliff to the top. Follow a cleared footpath to the right and then take the dirt road. After a while, take a cleared path uphill to an air tower from where you take another dirt road leading to a paved road. Cross it to the right and go on for a few meters before going to the left along another a dirt road and then another that winds through the mountain. Before making a turn on this road (this is not clear to me!), turn to the left on a cleared footpath and walk a few kilometers along it until you reach a dirt road. Go right along it for a short time and then leave it to the left, crossing a dry stream before arriving at the Ain el Hajal spring. Continue along the footpath to a dirt road and turn &nbsp;right onto another dirt road and walk on until you reach the Ain Ouadi el Blat spring. From here, follow a footpath to the main el Qobayat el Qammouaa paved road. Section 2 ends here.Important to know - There are no dangerous or difficult passages on this section; the trail consists of dirt and paved roads, footpaths and goat trails. - This section has only 16km marked footpath from the side of el Qemmamine toward el Qammouaa - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at info@lebanontrail.org and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay, contact the guest house or the guide a few days before you start your trip.Getting there Take the coastal highway northbound from Tripoli. At el Abdeh, take the fork on the right to Bebnine and continue on until you arrive to Halba. To reach Tashea, turn right in the center of Halba and follow the road to Beit Mallat. &nbsp;Before reaching Bezbina, turn right to Tashea. Once you reach the village, you need to walk nearly 3km along a paved road to reach the head of the trail near Nabaa el Beddawi spring. &nbsp;Public transportation is available from Tripoli to Fnaideq, Mishmish, and Qobbayat. All roads are paved. The LMT is accessible from all these villages.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Minieh-Dannieh district

Qemmamine

LMT 3 Qemmamine - Kfar Bebnine

Trail length 10,1 kmNorth to South From Qemmamine to Kfar Bebnine Total ascent 918m&nbsp; Total descent 568m Level of difficulty Very Difficult (4h30)The trail in this section of the LMT is mostly made of footpaths along forested hillsides. It is accessible all year long, but you might not meet many people along the way, except in el Qemmamine at the start and Kfar Bebnine at the end of the section, this area being remote; it is very likely though that you find some shepherds on the way. The dramatic Jehannem valleys (وادي جهنم) with its deep gorges and high peaks, oak, juniper and brutia pine forests are the main highlights. There's one permanent spring at the middle of the trail. Walk from Ain el Qemmamine spring along the dirt road towards the pine forest and then start the climb on the footpath until you reach the cliff which overlooks the village. From there, take the footpath to the right towards the dirt road. Before you pass by a concrete water reservoir start climbing towards a juniper forest. After the forest, continue until you reach a dirt road and walk along it for a short distance before leaving it on your left as you go towards Tell Chima plain. Continue on the cleared footpath toward Ouadi Sirri until you reach Nabaa Ras el Ain spring. Then walk along the water canal and start your climb towards Tallet Hankoufa hill with its abandoned ruined site. From this point, walk downhill along a cleared footpath until you reach the paved road to Kfar Bebnine village. At the info panel, you can either leave the village or continue on towards Bqaa Sefrine. &nbsp;South to North From Kfar Bebnine to Qemmamine Total ascent 568m&nbsp; Total descent 918m Level of difficulty Very Difficult (4h30)From the info panel location, follow the narrow street and walk about one kilometer and a half along the paved road. At a certain turn, go straight on a cleared footpath toward the valley and follow it as it climbs toward a ruined farm. From this point, take a cleared path toward the valley which reaches a dirt road. Walk a few meters and then go left along an uncleared water canal. &nbsp;At Ras el Ain spring, find the path and continue toward Tell Chima, flat ground surrounded by juniper forest. The trail goes around the edge of it and then follows a dirt road that connects with another one. Go right and walk along the dirt road. After a few hundred meters, make a sharp left turn and walk along the edge of the wheat field. Follow an uncleared path towards a dry stream and continue walking on a cleared footpath with ups and downs until it reaches a dirt road. Walk downhill and go past a concrete water reservoir following a dirt road. Then turn left and climb up again into a dense, mixed forest. From there, take a footpath which descends steeply downhill and leads you to el Qemmamine village. This section ends at the spring.Important to know - There are some difficult passages on this section; the trail consists of paved roads, dirt roads and footpath - This section is completely blazed. - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at <a href="mailto:info@lebanontrail.org">info@lebanontrail.org</a> and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay and your hike, contact the guesthouse or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there Take the coastal highway northbound from Tripoli. At el Abdeh, take the fork on the right to Bebnine. When you reach Bebnine, turn right on the road towards Berqayel and Qabaiit.&nbsp; Once in Qabaiit, descend into the valley towards el Qemmamine. The trail starts at Ain el Qemmamine spring. To reach Kfar Bnine, exit Tripoli on the road to Sir ed Danniyeh and Sfire.&nbsp; Continue north from Sfire to Kfar Bnine. All the roads are paved.&nbsp; Public transportation is available from Tripoli to el Qobbayat, Sir ed Dannieh and Kfar Bebnine. The LMT is accessible from el Qemmamine and Kfar Bnine.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Kfar Bebnine

LMT 4 Kfar Bebnine - Bqaa Safrine

Trail length 14,1 kmNorth to South From Kfar Bebnine to Bqaa Safrine Total ascent 845m&nbsp; Total descent 855m Level of difficulty Very Difficult (5h30)Start your trip near the municipality by walking towards the info panel. Head towards the water canal and continue along a difficult passage to reach a dirt road. Walk along this road before leaving it to the left to climb towards a footpath between the orchards and along a water canal where you will reach the paved road once again as well as finding two concrete water reservoirs. From there take a right turn and go along the paved road until you reach a water canal and then continue upward along the road, once you finish the turns take a water canal to the right into the juniper forest before arriving at a dirt road which leads to apple and pear orchards. Follow this road few hundred meters than leave it to the left toward the water canal where you will reach a delicate cliff passage equipped with chains. After that, leave the water canal to climb up to the paved road, cross the road and continue on a dirt road than another paved road than leave this road to the right on another dirt road&nbsp; to reach a concrete water canal before reaching Nabaa el Sukkar spring. From there, climb up to the paved road and walk a short way along it before turning right onto a dirt road leading above a river bed.&nbsp; From there, walk along a water canal until you reach a dirt road after the orchards. Continue until you arrive at el Nabi Othman shrine under the remarkable oak trees before crossing the paved road left and walking towards Bqaa Sefrine along the concrete water canal. This section ends where the canal terminates at the paved road and from there you can continue towards Ehden or go down to the village of Bqaa Sefrine. No info panels or signs on site.&nbsp; &nbsp;South to North From Bqaa Safrine to Kfar Bebnine Total ascent 855m Total descent 845m Level of difficulty Very Difficult (5h30)Start this section at the Nabaa el Sukkar water canaland walk along it to the end. Go left to reach the paved road and walk a few meters down it before making a sharp turn right towards a dirt road which &nbsp;passes by a shrine beneath the oak trees. Follow the dirt road for few minutes and when you reach a junction between the dirt road to the left and an uncleared path to the right, take the unclear one and climb up under a walnut tree.&nbsp;From there, follow the water canal for a &nbsp;few minutes before leaving it and climbing up right towards the main paved road. When you reach it, turn sharp left and walk few hundred meters before strolling down the valley towards the Nabaa el Sukkar spring. Follow the stream to the metal water canal before leaving it to climb to the right following a dirt road which becomes a paved road. Continue until you reach the turn and follow the dirt road straight on to the paved road.&nbsp;Cross it and walk below the road to the concrete water canal before passing by the chain on your way to the dirt road. Turn right and walk for several minutes until you reach another concrete water canal between the juniper trees. Continue on to the dirt road then along a paved road below the concrete water reservoirs. Turn right further on by the metal door and then turn left downhill and follow a water canal an a footpath which arrives at a dirt road. Go right and then leave it going left towards a covered water canal which will lead you to the info panel.&nbsp;Important to know - There are some difficult passages on this section; the trail consists of dirt and paved roads, footpath, goat trails and water canals. - This section is completely marked. - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at <a href="mailto:info@lebanontrail.org">info@lebanontrail.org</a> and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay your hike, contact the guest house or the guide few days before you start your trip.&nbsp;Getting there From Tripoli take the Sir ed Dannieh road, continuing beyond Sir ed Dannieh and Sfire to Kfar Bebnine.&nbsp;All roads are paved and public transport is available. The LMT is accessible from all these villages.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Bqaa Safrine

LMT 5 Bqaa Safrine - Horsh Ehden

Trail length 19,8 kmNorth to South From Bqaa Safrine to Horsh Ehden Total ascent 1212m&nbsp; Total descent 1004m Level of difficulty Very Difficult (7h30)The trail starts above the village of Bqaa Sefrine near the water canal. Walk few meters than take a footpath to the left (you can stay on the paved road for few hundred meters) follow it than take a dirt road upward before&nbsp; turning right into a footpath toward the paved road, cross the main road&nbsp;and go down towards Majed guest house before taking the footpath leading you to a private land after crossing a metal door, past the spring, continue climbing and cross above the fence and follow a dirt road crossing over Zod cave. Continue along the dirt road, passing by a hamlet near some orchards, here beware of dogs. Continue on dirt road than turn right then left and follow an unclear goat path towards Ain Doraya el Faouqa spring and then walk down the footpath before following the goat trail that leads into an oak forest. When you reach el Sheikh Abdallah&nbsp; Shrine (Giant oak trees)and Doraya Shrine, walk along the dirt road to a footpath that leads you to the riverbed near Ain Doraya el Tahta spring, follow the footpath from the spring before climbing up to a dirt road. Continue until you reach Ain el Jorn spring and from there take the dirt road and then an unclear rocky footpath to reach another dirt road. Follow it to the main paved road and then cross towards an overlooking hill. Continue on a road than before the metal door take to the right on a footpath to Nabaa el Hawa cave-spring and from there you can pass by Btelleye farm and a camping site. Start walking along a clear footpath to Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve and end at the info panel near Ain el Naasa spring. Either you leave down by the Jouit entrance than by car toward Ehden or continue to Ehden on section 6. &nbsp;South to North From Horsh Ehden to Bqaa Safrine Total ascent 1004m&nbsp; Total descent 1212m Level of difficulty Difficult (7h30)From the info panel inside the nature reserve of Horsh Ehden, start the walk towards Ain el Naasa spring following the marked footpath in the forest. Once you reach the dry stream, continue on towards the mountain farm of Btellaye. Walk on below the farm and follow the dirt road which passes by the spring and the cave of el Haoua. From there, leave the road and take a cleared footpath to the left. Keep walking downhill until you reach a lonely cedar and after that, a solitary juniper tree. Continue on before taking a dirt road downhill until you reach the main paved road. Cross the road and walk few meters before turning right onto a dirt road. Continue along it before leaving it to go down along a dry stream bed. Follow another dirt road which passes by Ain el Jorn spring and after that, turn left towards a dirt road, Follow it downhill and then turn right at the first dirt road you come across. Go down it, passing by a farm and cross the fence before continuing straight until you reach a turn to the right downhill along yet another dirt road. Cross the stream and follow a footpath by the stream bed. Once you arrive at the Ain Douraya el Tahta spring, climb up to the right along a path which leads to a dirt road. Follow it until you reach the Cheikh Abdallah Shrine where there are two giant oak trees. From there, follow a dirt road that will take you to a footpath which leads into an oak forest before you arrive at Nabaa Douraya el Faouqa. From there, take an uncleared path towards a rocky flat area and then walk uphill and follow a dirt road. Pass beneath a lonely pine tree and follow an uncleared path to a dirt road and continue along it before making a left turn. Follow an uncleared path to where it meets a metal&nbsp;barrier and continue along a paved road, passing by some houses before following a dirt road until you reach a fence.You cross it and start walking downhill, passing thru a metal door and walking along a cleared footpath until you reach some buildings. Then take a narrow street to the right just after the line of buildings and arrive at the main paved road. Walk straight on the stairs and follow the cleared path until it meets a dirt road. Walk along it and then turn left going straight along an uncleared path until you’re back again on the paved road near the Nabaa el Sukkar water canal. The section ends here.Important to know - There are no dangerous or difficult passages along this section; the trail consists of dirt and paved roads, footpath and goat trails. - This section is completely marked.&nbsp; - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at info@lebanontrail.org and ask for the GPS track - For your stay, contact the guesthouse or the guide few days before you start your tripGetting there From Tripoli, take the road directly to Sir ed Dannieh and on to Bqaa Sefrine. The trail starts near the info panel above the village of Bqaa Sefrine. The road to Ehden leaves Tripoli via Zghorta.&nbsp; If you are coming from Beirut, take the coastal highway to Chekka, then go right to Amioun and Tourza. When the road divides just before Tourza, take the exit on the left, and continue directly to Ehden. You can find the trail head at the Jouit entrance of Ehden Nature Reserve.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Zgharta district

Ehden

LMT 6 Horsh Ehden - Qozhaya

Trail length 10,4 kmNorth to South From Qobbayat to Tashea Total ascent 407m Total descent 929m Level of difficulty Challenging (4h)South to North From Tashea to Qobbayat Total ascent 929m&nbsp; Total descent 407m Level of difficulty Very Difficult (4h)From the Jouit entrance of Horsh Ehden Reserve, start your climb on the footpath through Horsh Ehden. Once you reach the info panel, take the right track towards the upper Horsh Ehden Reserve entrance and continue along the paved road then leave it on a footpath until you reach a dirt road. Turn right and walk along the edge of Sinn Ehden with a spectacular views, continue down onto a pine and cedar forest than a paved road until you reach the main square (el Midan) of Ehden town. Continue through the streets until you reach the main paved road which goes past Mart Moura church. Continue a short distance before descending left onto a footpath and walk along it until you reach a water canal after passing by AinTourine spring. Follow the stairs which pass a paved road and the water mill and continue until you reach the main village square. Take the tiny street that runs down towards Saint Anthony of Qozhaya monastery, the path is steep and slippery , cross a small wood ladder and continue down on a footpath leaving &nbsp;Qozhaya valley on your left, cross a metal door where section 6 ends, you can continue on the paved road toward section 7 or walk to the Monastery.&nbsp;Important to know - There are some difficult and slippery passages on this section; the trail consists of dirt and paved roads, footpaths, goat trails and water canals. - This section is completely marked. There are signs that belongs to Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve along this section , if you are using the LMT trails stay always on the white and purple marking.&nbsp; - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at info@lebanontrail.org and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay and hike, contact the guesthouse or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there The road to Ehden leaves Tripoli via Zghorta. From Beirut, take the coastal highway to Chekka. About 2 km after the tunnel, go right to Amioun and Tourza. When the road divides just before Tourza, take the exit on the left and continue directly to Ehden. You can find the trail head at the Jouit entrance of Ehden Nature Reserve. At the same intersection before Tourza where the road divides, take the exit on the left and continue directly to Ehden. When you reach Aarbet Qozhaya, take a right turn towards the Saint Anthony of Qozhaya monastery.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Qozhaya

LMT 7 Qozhaya - Bcharreh

Trail length 13,2 kmNorth to South From Qozhaya to Bcharreh Total ascent 1156m Total descent 771m Level of difficulty Difficult (5h30)South to North From Bcharreh to Qozhaya Total ascent 771m Total descent 1156m Level of difficulty Difficult (5h30)This section allows hikers to explore in detail the monuments and nature of the Ouadi Qannoubine, one of the two major valleys that form the Qadisha Valley World Heritage site. Ouadi Qannoubine is readily accessible all year long. It is deeply revered by tourists and pilgrims alike. Main highlights include monasteries, chapels and hermitages cut into the rock face of the valley. The river that carves out the floor of the valley has water flowing only in the springtime. The views east toward the high peaks of the Lebanon mountains and the ancient stand of cedar trees above Bcharre are spectacular. Start near Qozhaya Monastery and take the trail passing onto the orchards, take a footpath downhill, cross the water metal pipes, reach the hamlet of el Fraidis, cross it and walk on another footpath, once you are on a concrete canal, continue and few meters and climb left toward the monastery of Our Lady of Qannoubine, continue down the footpath to the same water canal, after passing the restaurant of Abou Joseph, make sure not to take the dirt road but follow a path to the right, later you will reach the same dirt road. At the end of this road before reaching the restaurants take a paved road to the left toward Mar Lichaa monastery, the path start to climb toward Bcharre village at the second turn to the left, be careful from the steep ascent and delicate passages secured with chains. This section ends at the info panel on the main paved road. On this section you will find other blazes than the LMT in red and white, yellow and white and blue and white. These marks belong to a network of trails which you should not follow if you are walking on the LMT.Important to know - There are some difficult and slippery passages along this section; the trail consists of dirt and paved roads, footpaths, goat trails and water canals. - This section is completely marked. There are other way marking signs along this section (white and yellow), if you are using the LMT trails stay always on the white and purple marking.&nbsp; - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at info@lebanontrail.org and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay, contact the guesthouse or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there From Beirut, take the coastal highway to Chekka. About 2 km after the tunnel, go right to Amioun and Tourza. When the road divides just before Tourza, take the exit on the left and continue directly to Ehden. When you reach Aarbet Qozhaya, take a right turn toward Saint Anthony of Qozhaya monastery. When the road divides just before Tourza, take the right-hand exit towards Hadath el Jebbeh, Hasroun, Bazaoun and Bcharreh.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Bcharreh district

Bcharreh

LMT 8 Bcharreh - Bazaoun

Trail length 22,7 kmNorth to South From Bcharreh to Bazaoun Total ascent 955m Total descent 938m Level of difficulty Difficult (7h30)South to North From Bazaoun to Bcharreh Total ascent 938m Total descent 955m Level of difficulty Difficult (7h45)From the info panel, walk towards the town of Bcharre(about 1.5 km). Go past the main square until you reach the sign showing the way to the Gibran Khalil Gibran museum. Continue to the museum and then start the steep ascent towards the Bcharre – el Arz main road. Then walk left down to the paved road and leave it to the after a short distance, turning right onto a dirt road. Pass by Ain el Ouchak spring and then continue climbing on the footpath until you reach the Bcharre – el Arz main road again. Walk down the road before taking a left turn on an unclear path to climb towards el Arz. Cross the highway and head down to the Cedars of God main entrance and walk through the forest, leaving by the eastern gate. Take the paved road before turning right onto a dirt road and go on until you reach an unused water canal. You pass by a hamlet and then continue walking uphill until you turn right at a water canal intersection, walk few meters down the canal and turn left downward once you arrive at the dirt road and walk a few kilometres on dirt roads before taking a left turn and climbing towards Nabaa el Bhiss spring. Remain on the water canal until &nbsp;before you reach the end of this section by descending to the info panel. From there, you can turn left and continue to section 9 or take a steep 2km decent to Bazaoun.Important to know - There are some slippery passages and steep descents along this section; the trail consists of dirt and paved roads, footpaths, goat trails and water canals. - This section is completely marked.&nbsp; - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at info@lebanontrail.org and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay, contact the guesthouse or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there From Beirut, take the coastal highway to Chekka. About 2 km after the tunnel, go right to Amioun and Tourza. When the road divides just before Tourza, take the exit to the right towards Hadath el Jebbeh, Hasroun and Bcharreh. The trail starts near the info panel facing the Bauhaus hostel. To reach Bazaoun, take same route and then walk from Hotel Karam to the head of the trail. All the roads are paved, and public transportation is available to all these villages.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Bazaoun

LMT 9 Bazaoun - Tannourine el-Faouqa

Trail length 20,7 kmNorth to South From &nbsp;Bazaoun to Tannourine el-Faouqa Total ascent 1189m Total descent 1200m Level of difficulty Very Difficult (8h)South to North From Tannourine el-Faouqa to Bazaoun Total ascent 1200m Total descent 1189m Level of difficulty Very Difficult (8h15)You can start near the Hotel Karam or go back to the head of the trail at the info panel and start walking towards Tannourine el Faouqa. Continue on the concrete water canal to reach Nabaa el Rassain spring and then walk along the road, passing several hill lakes and orchards. Keep walking past Ain el Ouatye and Ain el Dahab springs, passing by the hill lake of el Dimane and continuing towards Nbaa el Mrouj spring. Then go down a steep decent to the main paved road of Tannourine-el Hadath, crossing it and walking along the stream. You will pass by the Hadrian inscription before reaching the entrance to the Tannourine Cedar Nature Reserve. Walk downhill on trail number 1. Once you reach the road, turn left and continue as far as the dirt road goes before taking the footpath to Ain el Jaouze spring. From there, you walk along the trail before crossing the stream and continuing along the footpath until you start climbing towards Chir el Ribaz. When you pass the saddle, start walking down towards Nabaa el Korsi spring. Then follow the water canal until you reach the paved road. Walk down the stairs to end at Tannourine el Faouqa main square from where you can continue towards section 10.Important to know - There are no dangerous or difficult passages along this section; the trail consists of dirt and paved roads, footpaths, goat trails and water canals. - This section is completely marked. There are other way marking signs along this section (red and marine blue-white and blue), if you are using the LMT trails stay always on the white and purple marking.&nbsp; - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at info@lebanontrail.org and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay, contact the guest house or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there From Beirut, take the coastal highway to Chekka. Approximately 2 km after the Chekka tunnel, take the right exit to Amioun and Tourza. When the road divides just before Tourza, take the right-hand fork to Hadath el Jebbeh, Dimane, Hasroun and Bazaoun. To reach the head of the trail, take the path near "Hotel Karam". For Tannourine el Faouqa, turn right off the coastal highway at Jbeil. Follow the road to Ehmej and before reaching el Laqlouq, then turn left towards Baatara and Chatine and Tannourine el Faouqa. The trail starts at the main square of the village. All the roads are paved. Public transportation is available to Ehmej.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Tannourine

LMT 10 Tannourine el Faouqa - Aaqoura

Trail length 20,6 kmNorth to South From Tannourine el-Faouqa to Aaqoura Total ascent 1167m Total descent 1234m Level of difficulty Difficult (8h)South to North From Aaqoura to Tannourine el-Faouqa Total ascent 1234m Total descent 1167m Level of difficulty Very Difficult (8h30)From the main square, start off in the direction of el Aaqoura village and then walk downhill to reach the main paved road. Continue on and take a left turn towards the bridge and the water mill and then follow the footpath near the stream along a concrete water canal until you reach another water mill. Take the sandy dirt road and continue along the cleared footpath before starting to climb towards Chatine village. When you reach it, cross the main square and follow the paved road but make sure you leave it after a short distance and head for a cleared footpath that goes down to the valley, before climbing back up the other side. The path crosses the stream again and then climbs towards the Baatara sinkhole. After visiting the site, continue towards Nabaa el Cheikh spring after crossing the main paved road then take the foot path facing the dam and climb up towards el Laqlouq, you will reach the paved road than a hill lake and a huge, but dry, stone built water reservoir. Take the dirt road which passes by Saydet Zwila and then cross onto the paved road which becomes a dirt road until you arrive near Ain el Bared spring. Continue towards the Saydet el Qarn saddle at which point you turn left onto a dirt road reaching the highest elevation on the LMT and start walking down the valley of Ain el Debb spring. This section ends at the paved road where you can continue on towards section 11 or leave for el Aaqoura village.Important to know - There are some difficult and slippery passages along this section; the trail consists of dirt and paved roads, footpaths, goat trails and water canals. - This section is completely marked. There are other way marking signs along this section(red and marine blue), if you are using the LMT trails stay always on the white and purple marking. - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at info@lebanontrail.org and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay, contact the guesthouse or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there To reach Tannourine el Faouqa and el Aaqoura from Beirut, take the coastal highway northbound to Jbeil. At Jbeil turn right off the highway to Ehmej. Before reaching el Laqlouq, turn left toward Baatara and Chatine and then continue to Tannourine el Faouqa. The trail starts at the main square of the village. To reach el Aaqoura, drive the same route as above but at Laqlouq, take the right fork towards el Aaqoura. When you reach the end of the village, you take the paved road near the signs towards the head of the trail. The roads are paved, and public transportation is available to Tannourine el Faouqa. The LMT is accessible from both Tannourine el Faouqa, and Aaqoura.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Jbeil district

Aaqoura

LMT 11 Aaqoura - Afqa

Trail length 21,8 kmNorth to South From Aaqoura to Afqa Total ascent 590m Total descent 912m Level of difficulty Difficult (5h30)South to North From Afqa to Aaqoura Total ascent 590m Total descent 912m Level of difficulty Difficult (6h30)You can start walking on section 11 next to the info panel above the village. Most of the walk is along a dirt road, with the trail following the majestic cliffs to the east of the village and climbing up to a high altitude along the ridge line. When you pass by Ain el Aasafir spring, turn right to reach the top of the mountain range. After passing by Saydet Sehta shrine, you continue along the dirt road and then start walking downhill on a goat path towards a grove of the juniper trees. There you will reach another dirt road that goes winding through orchards and fields. Walk straight along the paved road and cross over the main el Mnaitra road, passing by “La Foret des Chenes”. Take the dirt road to reach Nabaa el Hosn spring from where you walk down the footpath into the “Juniper Forest”. Then take the dirt road that terminates near Takla church which is on the paved road. This section ends there or you can continue on towards Afqa on section 12.Important to know - There are some steep descents along this section. The trail consists of dirt &amp; paved roads, footpaths and goat trails. - This section is completely marked.&nbsp; - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at info@lebanontrail.org and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay, contact the guest house or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there Take the coastal highway northbound from Beirut to Jbeil. &nbsp;At Jbeil, leave the highway and follow the road to Ehmej and Laqlouq. When you arrive at the fork in Laqlouq, go right to the village of el Aaqoura. To reach the end of the village, you can take the paved road near the signs towards the head of the trail at the info panel. To reach Afqa, go past the village of el Aaqoura and Majdel el Aaqoura. The trail starts near Mar Takla church but before you reach Afqa cave.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Afqa

LMT 12 Afqa - Faraya Chabrouh

Trail length 21,8 kmNorth to South From Afqa to Faraya Chabrouh Total ascent 593m Total descent 511m Level of difficulty Challenging (5h)South to North From Faraya Chabrouh to Afqa Total ascent 511m Total descent 593m Level of difficulty Challenging (6h)This section starts near Mar Takla church behind the fence and follows the paved road leading to Afqa cave. Pass the bridge and head left towards the juniper forest along the dirt road, passing by the Roman inscription. Walk down the paved road once again and take the left fork onto the dirt road. Go down it for few kilometres, passing Nabaa Lassa spring and the organic farm. Continue on past the Nabaa el Hadid spring, continue and take left turn on another dirt road, climb up to reach a "cartridge graveyard" then take the footpath towards Nabaa el Qana spring. Follow the dirt road until you reach the paved road &nbsp;than another dirt road follows, make sure you do not miss the turn to the right toward the cliff, a great panoramic trail awaits you following a footpath under the cliff crossing the bridge and later climbing toward the paved road again near the Monastery.&nbsp;Important to know - There are no dangerous or difficult passages along this section; the trail consists of dirt and paved roads as well as goat trails. - This section is completely marked.&nbsp; - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at info@lebanontrail.org and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay, contact the guesthouse or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there From Beirut, take the coastal highway to Nahr el Kelb. Five hundred meters after the tunnel, go right on the road that leads to Faraya via Hrajel, pass the Faraya roundabout and head to the Chabrouh Dam. The trail starts near Ordres de Malte (Markaz el Fadi). To reach Afqa, take the left fork in Mayrouba and pass the villages of Qehmez and Lassa. The trail starts near the Mar Takla church after the Afqa cave. &nbsp;The roads are paved and public transportation is available to Faraya. The LMT is accessible from Faraya and Afqa.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Keserwan district

Faraya

LMT 13 Faraya Chabrouh - Kfardebian

Trail length 13 kmNorth to South From Faraya Chabrouh to Kfardebian Total ascent 466m Total descent 569m Level of difficulty Challenging (5h)South to North From Kfardebian to Faraya Chabrouh Total ascent 569m Total descent 466m Level of difficulty Challenging (4h30)This trail starts under the Monastery of Our Lady of assumption and goes on the road toward Nabaa el Aasal spring and the water pipe which crosses over the stream from the Nabaa el Laban spring. When you arrive at the top of the “Jisr el Hajar” of Kfardebian (natural bridge), the trail continues over a hill lake and joins a concrete water canal to reach the Faqra ruins and temple. From there, a footpath runs towards a dirt road which passes by a quarry before reaching an umbrella pine forest. Follow a new path downhill towards the orchards by the stream, passing a concrete bridge. Continue over another bridge onto the main paved road which leads you to some orchards beside the stream. Cross it by a ruined watermill and start climbing towards Kfardebian village. You can either continue towards section 14 or finish next to Mar Ephrem church in the village by using the connecting trail.Important to know - There are no dangerous or difficult passages along this section; the trail consists of dirt and paved roads as well as goat trails. - This section is completely marked.&nbsp; - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at info@lebanontrail.org and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay, contact the guesthouse or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there From Beirut, take the coastal highway to Nahr el Kalb. 500 m after the tunnel take the exit that leads to Jeita Grotto, and Faraya via Hrajel. To reach the head of the trail in Chabrouh, take a left turn after Faraya village roundabout, and then another left turn that reaches the Chabrouh dam. The roads are paved and public transportation is available to Faraya. The LMT is accessible from Faraya and Kfardebian.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Kfardebian

LMT 14 Kfardebian - Baskinta el Chakhroub

Trail length 16,5 kmNorth to South From Kfardebian to Baskinta el Chakhroub Total ascent 750m Total descent 480m Level of difficulty Moderate (4h30)South to North From Baskinta el Chakhroub to Kfardebian&nbsp; Total ascent 480m Total descent 750m Level of difficulty Challenging (4h30)Use the connecting trail from the Mar Ephrem church to reach the head of the trail of section 14. Walk downhill and cross the river on a locally-made wooden bridge and climb up the other side until you reach a dirt road that later becomes a paved road. Turn right and follow the marks until you reach the BLT (Baskinta Literary Trail) sign. Then walk towards the Monastery of Saydet el Niyah and cross the main street, continue until you reach the water canal. Then follow it past the ancient tombs beside the main trail and continue walking along it. Go through a small umbrella pine forest and then walk downhill on a dirt road to reach the Sannine water factory. Pass by in front of it and cross the bridge flowing from some springs to other side of the valley, taking a partially-concealed path. When you reach the dirt road, continue walking until you arrive at the paved road which is the main Bakich – Baskinta road. Turn left and continue until you reach the BLT signs from where you take the dirt road as far as the Sannine – Baskinta main road. Walk downhill towards Mikhael Naimi tomb at which point you have three options:Option 1: Continue along the main paved road to Baskinta.Option 2: Walk along the BLT-LMT trail towards el Mtain and section 15. Take the same main road but leave it after 500 m, going down the dirt road on the left from where you follow the three-color blazing to reach the official LMT blazes. Continue to el Mtain.Option 3: The <a href="https://www.bamleb.com/guide/hiking-trails/baskinta-literary-trail-lmt">BLT</a> (from Mikhael Naimi’s tomb to Baskinta) Retrace your steps on foot or by vehicle to the point near Michael Naimi’s tomb. Then take the dirt road (like option 2) and follow the three-color blazing, walking down to the bottom of Ouadi el Delb. Pass the hill lake on the left-hand side before reaching the end of the agriculture road. Continue downhill to the paved road which you approach from the Sannine side. Walk one hundred meters along it before turning right to reach the riverbed after the HAD information panel and then continue on the same path across the small bridge. From there, you start an easy ascent, counting 830m from the bridge before you take another un-cleared path which leads to an agriculture road on the left.Important to know - There is a difficult passage along this section; the trail consists of dirt and paved roads, a water canal and goat trails. - This section is completely marked.&nbsp; - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at info@lebanontrail.org and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay and hike, contact the guesthouse or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there From Beirut, take the coastal highway to Nahr el Kalb. 500 meters after the tunnel, go right on the road that leads to Faraya via Hrajel. At the Faraya roundabout, take the right turn and continue until you reach Kfardebiane. The trail’s head is next to the Mar Ephrem church. To reach Baskinta from Beirut, take the coastal highway to Antelias and then join the main road up to Bikfaya. After passing through Bikfaya, turn right onto the road to Kenchara, Bteghrine and Ouadi el Jamajem. Once you enter Baskinta, go over the roundabout and continue to Chakhroub until you reach the BLT signs.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

LMT 15 Baskinta el Chakhroub - Mtein

Trail length 16,5 kmNorth to South From Baskinta el Chakhroub to Mtein Total ascent 690m Total descent 1200m Level of difficulty Difficult (6h30)South to North From Mtein to Baskinta el Chakhroub Total ascent 1200m Total descent 690m Level of difficulty Difficult (6h30)Option 1: the <a href="https://www.bamleb.com/guide/hiking-trails/baskinta-literary-trail-lmt">BLT</a> (from Mikhael Naimi’s tomb to Baskinta) Retrace your steps on foot or by vehicle to the point near Michael Naimi’s tomb. Then take the dirt road (like option 2) and follow the three-color blazing, walking to the bottom of Wadi el Delb. Pass the hill lake on the left-hand side before reaching the end of the agriculture road. Continue downhill to the paved road which you approach from the Sannine side. Walk one hundred meters along it before turning right to reach the river bed after the HAD information panel and then continue along the same path and across the small bridge. From there, you start an easy ascent, counting 830m from the bridge before you take another un-cleared path which leads to an agriculture road on the left.Option 2: Walk on the BLT-LMT trail towards el Mtain and section 15. Then go along the same main road, leaving it after 500 m to take the dirt road on the left. Follow the three-color blazing until you reach the official LMT blazes before continuing on to el Mtein. At the BLT-LMT sign, climb up the agriculture road until you reach the paved road by the spring. Continue straight up and take the right to a dirt road, at some point leave again this road and take a steep decent on a gravel road, turn left and walk on a stone wall reaching along the water pipe (it’s slippery in places and has steep sides) before following the goat trail until you reach the roman ruins of el Jaouz. Then follow the footpath which overlooks the valley before crossing the stream and climbing up towards the Bqellai hill lake. Continue walking below it before taking the dirt road up to the main el Mtain-Zaarour road. Go a few meters on the paved road before taking a left turn onto a footpath which follow an unused water canal and two houses. once you walk past the second house walk few meter and take an un clear water canal, you will reach a dirt road, than turn left on another dirt road, follow the steep descent to reach a paved road, turn left into a pine forest to reach the el Mtain – Aintoura main road. Cross it and walk downhill towards el Mtein village, passing by the molasses (dibs) press and Ain el Manzoul. Then follow the paved road until you reach the historic main square of el Mtein.Important to know - There are many difficult passages along this section: the trail consists of dirt and paved roads, water pipes and goat paths. - This section is completely marked.&nbsp; - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at info@lebanontrail.org and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay, contact the guest house or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there From Beirut to Baskinta, take the coastal highway to Antelias and then join the main road up to Bikfaya. After passing through Bikfaya, turn right onto the road to Kenchara, Bteghrine and Wadi el Jamajem. Once you enter Baskinta, go over the roundabout and continue to Chakhroub until you reach the BLT signs.To reach Mtein, go straight through Bikfaya and climb up to Dhour ech Choueir and Mrouj. In Mrouj, turn right to el Mtain where the trail starts at the main square. The LMT is accessible from el Mtain and Baskinta. The roads are paved and public transportation is available.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Mtein

LMT 16 Mtein - Falougha

Trail length 16,5 kmNorth to South From Mtein to Falougha Total ascent 972m Total descent 574m Level of difficulty Difficult (5h)South to North From Falougha to Mtein Total ascent 574m Total descent 972m Level of difficulty Challenging (5h)Start your hike from the same place where you finished the day before in the historic main square of el Mtain which, by the way, is worth a proper visit. Take the tiny paved road next to the LMT information panel which leads you to the silk factory and then follow the flight of steps next to it to arrive on the paved road. Walk downhill a few meters before turning right at the marks and taking the steps to reach the main Mchikha-el Mtain paved road. Go across it and continue past the molasses (dibs) press, leaving the cow farm on your left. Walk downstream and then cross the bridge before taking the cleared path through the oak and pine forest. Go past the deserted hamlet and then take the dirt road below the umbrella pine forest. After making several turns, leave the road on an un-cleared path towards the valley and walk along it until you reach the paved road. Then cross the bridge and take the cleared path on the other side of the valley before starting your climb up to the dirt road. You pass by some farms as well as a remarkable oak tree before taking a right turn in front of the communication tower. Walk along the dirt road and then take the path to the left until you start the steep climb to reach Jouar el Haouz village. Then cross the road and continue on the dirt road, passing by the water reservoir and Ain el Rejme from where you start to climb to the right towards the ridge above the hill lake. Continue walking along the path then the dirt road before leaving it further on and descending towards the end of this section which is at Soha Village resort.Important to know - There are no difficult passages along this section; the trail consists of dirt and paved roads, water pipes and goat trails. - This section is completely marked. There are damage along the trail under Jouar el Haouz village.&nbsp; - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at info@lebanontrail.org and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay. contact the guesthouse or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there To reach Mtein, go straight through Bikfaya and climb up to Dhour ech Choueir and Mrouj. In Mrouj, turn right to el Mtain where the trail starts at the main square. The LMT is accessible from el Mtain and Baskinta. The roads are paved and public transportation is available. A quicker way to Falougha and Qornayel is to go along the main Damascus highway from Beirut to Dahr el Baidar from where you can turn left turn to both towns. The LMT is accessible from all these locations. The roads are paved and public transportation is available to Falougha, Qornayel and Mtein.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Baabda district

Falougha

LMT 17 Falougha - Ain Zhalta

Trail length 16,5 kmNorth to South From Falougha to Ain Zhalta Total ascent 560m Total descent 936m Level of difficulty ChallengingSouth to North From Ain Zhalta to Falougha Total ascent 936m Total descent 560m Level of difficulty DifficultFrom Soha Village resort, walk on the paved road that leads you to the cedar forest and enter the forest by the main entrance. Walk through it to reach the paved road which you cross before taking the dirt road to the cliff. Then continue towards el Mighite plain by way of the dam and the French trenches as well as passing by the site of the old underground military hospital. Cross the Beirut-Damascus highway and continue up the quarry road before taking a right fork. Follow the dirt road, passing the air towers, before taking a left turn down another dirt road. Follow the stream and go through a private orchard of apple and cherry trees before continuing towards another stream. Then follow the road to the Roman bridge, leaving it on your left, and continue straight on before climbing up a goat trail. Follow it for an hour until you reach a hill lake where you make a left turn to arrive at a dirt road. Then go right along it before you leave and take a partially concealed path to the left. Continue down it until you reach a paved road and then make a left turn and continue straight on before taking a dirt road to reach the entrance of the Ain Zhalta nature reserve. The section ends there but you can follow the paved road which will take you to Ain Zhalta village.Important to know - There are no difficult passages along this section; the trail consists of dirt and paved roads, water pipes and goat trails. - This section is completely marked.&nbsp; - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at info@lebanontrail.org and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay, contact the guesthouse or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there To reach Falougha, follow the main Damascus highway from Beirut to Dahr el Baidar from where a left turn brings you to both towns. The LMT is accessible from all these locations. The roads are paved and public transportation is available to Falougha, Qornayel and Mtein. To reach Ain Zhalta and Barouk, take the Damascus highway out of Beirut and climb to Dahr el Baidar passing through Aley, Bhamdoun and Sawfar. At Dahr el Baidar, make a right turn and drive through Ain Dara to reach both towns. You can also take the coastal highway south to Damour. From there, take the road to Deir el Qamar and Beit ed Dine. At Maasser Beit ed Dine, take the left-hand fork to reach el Barouk and Ain Zhalta. The LMT is accessible from Ain Zhalta and el Barouk. The roads are paved and public transportation is available.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Chouf district

Ain Zhalta

LMT 18 Ain Zhalta - Barouk

Trail length 18 kmNorth to South From Ain Zhalta to Barouk Total ascent 668m Total descent 712m Level of difficulty Very DifficultSouth to North From Barouk to Ain Zhalta&nbsp; Total ascent 712m Total descent 668m Level of difficulty Very DifficultIf you stay in Ain Zhalta, you will have to return to the Ain Zhalta nature reserve entry point to start on section 18. Begin walking down a very beautiful track single-file past the directional sign showing the top of the mountain. It leads you into the cedar forest and towards the guard hut and the hill lake. After that you arrive at the ridge line from where you continue along the dirt road for nearly two hours until you reach the lake. Then either continue on towards the Maaser el Chouf reserve entry point or turn right to descend to el Barouk nature reserve gate. You can walk along the main paved road or, if you prefer, take a track which starts just below it to reach the el Barouk entrance. Finally, in the same way as you did at Ain Zhalta, you can follow the road from the entry point to el Barouk village.This entire section is bike friendly.Important to know - There are no difficult passages along this section; the trail consists of dirt and paved roads and single tracks. -&nbsp;This section goes through the Shouf Biosphere Reserve. - This section is not marked. - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@lebanontrail.org">info@lebanontrail.org</a>&nbsp;and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay, contact the guesthouse or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there To reach Ain Zhalta and el Barouk, take the Damascus highway out of Beirut and climb up to Dahr el Baidar passing through Aley, Bhamdoun and Saoufar. In Dahr el Baidar, make a right turn and drive through Ain Dara to reach both towns. You can also take the coastal highway south to Damour from where you take the road to Deir el Qamar and Beit ed Dine. At Maasser Beit ed Dine, take the left-hand fork to el Barouk and Ain Zhalta. The LMT is accessible from Ain Zhalta and el Barouk. The roads are paved and public transportation is available. To reach el Barouk, take the same route as described above. A left turn at the village puts you on a road leading to Maasser ech Chouf. You can also take the coastal highway south to Damour and from there you take the road to Deir el Qamar and Beit ed Dine. At Maasser Beit ed Dine, take the left-hand fork to reach el Barouk/Fraidis. The LMT is accessible from el Barouk and Maasser ech Chouf. The roads are paved and public transportation is available to el Barouk.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Barouk

LMT 19 Barouk - Maasser el Chouf

Trail length 14 kmNorth to South From Barouk to Maasser el Chouf Total ascent 1067m Total descent 668m Level of difficulty Very DifficultSouth to North From Maasser el Chouf to Barouk&nbsp; Total ascent 668m Total descent 1067m Level of difficulty DifficultReturn from Barouk village to the main reserve entry point and go through the gate. You can either walk on the paved road or take the narrow track single-file below it on the right-hand side of the road. Follow this steep track to reach the main paved road near the cut-off track and continue on, keeping the paved road to the right. When you enter Masyaf el Mir forest, head straight to the square before taking a narrow track from near the trash bins. Start your ascent and follow the track up to the Maasser el Chouf reserve entry point where you can either take a car to the village or follow another narrow track to the right (just before the entrance gate) and walk downhill to arrive at Chouf cedar park.Important to know - There are no difficult passages along this section; the trail consists of narrow tracks and paved road. - This section goes through the Shouf Biosphere Reserve. - This section is not marked.&nbsp; - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at info@lebanontrail.org and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay contact the guesthouse or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there To reach el Barouk and Maasser el Chouf, take the Damascus highway out of Beirut and climb up to Dahr el Baidar, passing through Aley, Bhamdoun and Sawfar. At Dahr el Baidar, make a right turn and drive through Ain Dara and Ain Zhalta to reach Barouk. A left turn in the village puts you on the road leading to Maasser el Chouf. You can also take the coastal highway south to Damour. From there, take the road to Deir el Qamar and Beit ed Dine. At Maasser Beit ed Dine, take the left-hand fork to el Barouk/Fraidis. The LMT is accessible from el Barouk and Maasser el Chouf. The roads are paved and public transportation is available to Barouk.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Maasser el Chouf

LMT 20 Maasser el Chouf - Niha

Trail length 12 kmNorth to South From Maasser el Chouf to Niha Total ascent 548m&nbsp; Total descent 681m Level of difficulty ChallengingSouth to North From Niha to Maasser el Chouf Total ascent 681m&nbsp; Total descent 548m Level of difficulty DifficultFrom Chouf Cedar Park, start your walk along the paved road towards Mresti village. Once you leave the village, take a left turn and then a right to start climbing up a dirt road. Go past the concrete water reservoir and then take the footpath to the left passing by Ain el Zghire. Continue on to the ridge line before descending until you reach a dirt road. Walk downhill and turn left at the first dirt road before passing the stream and walking uphill along another dirt road until it becomes a partially-concealed path. Continue downhill again and take a left turn onto another dirt road before starting to climb towards some beautiful geological formations. Keep walking along the dirt roads, passing by a hill lake on your right-hand side and continue towards the village of Mrousti. Walk into the village and climb up to take the footpath to another dirt road and follow it towards a farm before arriving at the Ain Chaachouaa spring. Cross by the spring and follow the dirt road before taking a footpath which passes near the pine forest up to rocky saddle where you start a steep decent towards the valley. Then follow the water canal to reach the main square of Niha village.Important to know - There are no difficult passages along this section; the trail consists of dirt &amp; paved roads and footpaths. - This section is marked. This section goes through the <a href="https://www.bamleb.com/guide/natural-landmarks/shouf-biosphere-nature-reserve">Shouf Biosphere Reserve</a>. - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at info@lebanontrail.org and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay, contact the guesthouse or the guide a few days before you start your trip.Getting there To reach Maasser el Chouf and Niha, take the coastal highway south to Damour. From there take the road to Deir el Qamar (دير القمر) and Beit ed Dine. At Maasser Beit ed Dine, go right and continue through Baqaata (بقعاتا) to Moukhtara. From Moukhtara go east to reach Khreibet, Mresti, and Maasser el Chouf and then south to reach Jbaa, Niha and Baadarane. All roads are paved and public transportation is available. You can access the LMT from any of these villages.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Niha

LMT 21 Niha - Jezzine

Trail length 14 kmNorth to South From Niha to Jezzine Total ascent 575m&nbsp; Total descent 634m Level of difficulty DifficultSouth to North From Jezzine to Niha Total ascent 634m&nbsp; Total descent 575m Level of difficulty DifficultFrom Niha main square, retrace your steps to where you ended section 21. Then walk a few meters down the main road that takes you to Niha Fort before crossing the stream. From there, take a left turn and walk a short distance along the paved road. Leave it at the steps on the right-hand side and start climbing towards el Nabi Ayoub Shrine. Once you reach the main square, take the small road near the toilets and then follow the dirt road for several kilometres before walking down to the hill lake, passing by Ain el Halkoum spring. Arriving at the dirt road intersection, you have two options. Either leave the LMT and take the road towards Niha Fort or continue left along the dirt road that will lead you to a hill. From there, you need to cross over the old fortifications and take a clear footpath that leads to a dirt road. Continue on it but before reaching the bed river leave the dirt road &nbsp;to the right and walk towards the stream on a clear footpath. Take the footpath along the river, crossing it in different places before continuing towards some steps that lead to the main paved road. Continue to the Nabaa Jezzine spring on the paved road where this section ends at the signposts.Important to know - There are no difficult passages along this section; the trail consists of dirt &amp; paved roads and footpaths. - This section is marked. This section goes through the <a href="https://www.bamleb.com/guide/natural-landmarks/shouf-biosphere-nature-reserve">Shouf Biosphere Reserve</a>. - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at info@lebanontrail.org and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay, contact the guesthouse or the guide a few days before you start your trip.Getting there To reach Niha and Jezzine, take the coastal highway south to Damour. From there take the road to Deir el Qamar and Beit ed Dine.&nbsp;At Maasser Beit ed Dine, go right and continue through Baqaata to Moukhtara. From Moukhtara, continue south to Niha and Jezzine. For quicker access to Jezzine, continue down the coast road to Saida. When you reach Saida, take the bypass to avoid the congested downtown area and follow the signposting for a left turn to Jezzine. All roads are paved and public transportation is available. You can access the LMT from both of these villages.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

West Bekaa district

Aaitanit

LMT 23 Aaitanit - Majdel Balhis

Trail length 12,2 kmNorth to South From Aaitanit to Majdel Balhis Total ascent 716m&nbsp; Total descent 624m Level of difficulty DifficultSouth to North From Majdel Balhis to Aaitanit Total ascent 624m&nbsp; Total descent 716m Level of difficulty ChallengingAt the Aaitanit spring, take the small, winding road from opposite the spring to the paved road and then go down to the dirt road to the shore of Qaraoun Lake. Walk over the dam to the other side, go left on the paved road before following a dirt road to the right facing some café and climb the hill for about an hour.&nbsp; While walking on this road you will notice that the marks cross an olive orchards, continue upward on overlooking road where it ends, take an unclear foot path downhill to reach a grape field, keep it on your left side down a lonely house, than climb a small hill and down again to reach an open field to your right and left,&nbsp; there is a hidden dirt road that you need to continue upward on it which leads to a paved road in order to reach Majdel Balhis village. This section ends inside the village.&nbsp;Important to know - There are no difficult passages along this section; the trail consists of dirt &amp; paved roads, footpaths and goat trails. - This section is partly marked.&nbsp; - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at info@lebanontrail.org and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay and hike, contact the guesthouse or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there To reach Aaitanit or Kawkaba Bou Arab, take the Damascus highway to the&nbsp;Beqaa Valley. Upon reaching Chtaura, take the right-hand turn towards Qabb Elias. You will pass by the villages of Kefraya and Saghbine en route to Aaitanit. On the other side of Aaitanit, a left turn leads you to the Qaraoun dam and the village of Majdel Balhis.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Majdel Balhis

LMT 24 Majdel Balhis - Rachaya el Wadi

Trail length 13 kmNorth to South From Majdel Balhis to Rachaya el Wadi Total ascent 583m&nbsp; Total descent 635m Level of difficulty ModerateSouth to North From Rachaya el Wadi to Majdel Balhis Total ascent 635m&nbsp; Total descent 583m Level of difficulty Moderate (4h30)From the village of Majdel Balhis walk toward Rachaya el Wadi descending toward the grape valley and start to climb toward an overlooking hill facing Kaoukaba Bou Arab. Descend toward the lake and climb to reach the village, cross the village and walk down Jisr“el Djaj” bridge before crossing the Rachaya el Wadi – Hasbaya main paved road. Walk a few meters along it and then take the road to the right before continuing on the dirt road to Ain el Labwe spring by the old house. in After that, take a clear path from the house to reach a road and continue uphill on it until you reach the main road. Turn left and walk few meters down it before crossing another main road and taking straight a paved road for about. Continue on the road then go left on a cleared footpath between the olive trees that leads you to the main paved road again. Cross the road and start a steeper climb along a dirt road which leads you to the main square of Rachaya el Wadi in front of the municipality.Important to know - There are no difficult passages along this section; the trail consists of dirt and paved roads, footpaths and goat trails. - This section is partly marked. - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at info@lebanontrail.org and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay and hike, contact the guesthouse or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there To reach Majdel Balhis, take the Damascus highway into the &nbsp;Beqaa Valley. At Chtaura, take a right turn toward Qabb Elias. You will pass by the villages of Kefraya and Saghbine en route to Aaitanit. After Aaitanit, a left turn will lead you to the Qaraoun dam and Majdel Balhis on the other side.To reach Rachaya el Wadi and Hasbaya, take the Damascus highway from Beirut into the Beqaa Valley. Continue on the main highway across the valley to Majdel Aanjar. Before reaching the border post at Masnaa, take a right turn, passing the villages of Sultan Yaacoub and Dahr el Ahmar. Here, turn left to go to Rachaya el Wadi and right to continue on southward towards Hasbaya.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

LMT Douma Side Trail P2

Trail length 7,5 kmNorth to South From Baatara to Douma via Foghri Mountain Total ascent 704m&nbsp; Total descent 216m Level of difficulty Very DifficultSouth to North From Douma&nbsp;to Baatara via Foghri Mountain Total ascent 216m&nbsp; Total descent 704m Level of difficulty ChallengingThe Douma side trail is a loop. Both ends begin in Douma square and end in the natural site of Baatara Sinkhole. One segment of the trail follows the Damascus Way, known in Arabic as “Sikket el Sham”, the ancient trade road that once linked Damascus to the coast of Lebanon via Douma. The other segment climbs through Foghri mountain. To go from Douma square to Baatara Sinkhole via “Sikket El Sham” (Damascus Way), head north east to the olive press. Take the footpath then the paved road to reach Ain Aakfol. Continue north east for about 4km. Climb the stairs of “Sikket el Sham”. Follow the blazes through “Jouret el Maqtoul” plain and along the mountain ridge to the highest point on this segment of the trail. Enjoy the scenic view of the highlands of Tannourine and Laqlouq. Walk downward on a well delineated path for about 1km to reach the natural site of Baatara sinkhole. At this point, you can either head back to Douma toward the village of Chatine, or continue on the trail to El Aaqoura. To go from Douma square to Baatara Sinkhole via Foghri mountain, follow the main village road to reach Douma Club. At the club, turn right and climb toward Foghri mountain. Continue to Ain El Faouqa, el Melki tomb and the cherry orchards. Follow the blazes through El Ghommas plain to the highest point on this segment of the trail. Enjoy the panoramic views of the highlands of Tannourine and Laqlouq. Continue your hike on a karstic path, until you reach the intersection with LMT section 10 linking Tannourine to El Aaqoura. Walk south to reach the natural site of Baatara Sinkhole. At this point, you can either head west back to Douma or follow the trail to Aaqoura.Important to know - There are some slippery passages and steep descents along this section; the trail consists of dirt and paved roads, footpaths, goat trails.&nbsp; - This section is completely marked.&nbsp; - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at info@lebanontrail.org and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay, contact the guesthouse or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there From Beirut, take the coastal highway north to Tripoli. Exit at Batroun and take the highway to Tannourine. Before reaching Tannourine el Tahta, turn right and continue to Douma.Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Ehmej

LMT Ehmej Side Trail P1

Trail length 8,7 kmNorth to South From Baatara to Ehmej Total ascent 508m&nbsp; Total descent 667m Level of difficulty Very DifficultSouth to North From Ehmej&nbsp;to Baatara&nbsp; Total ascent 667m&nbsp; Total descent 508m Level of difficulty Very DifficultSource: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

LMT Ehmej Side Trail P2

Trail length 15,8 kmNorth to South From Baatara to Douma via Sikket el Sham Total ascent 1057m&nbsp; Total descent 777m Level of difficulty Very difficult (6h30)South to North From Douma&nbsp;to Baatara via Sikket el Sham Total ascent 777m&nbsp; Total descent 1057m Level of difficulty Difficult (6h30)Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

LMT Bkassine Side Trail P2

Trail length 15 kmNorth to South From Bkassine to Niha Fort Total ascent 615m&nbsp; Total descent 433m Level of difficulty Challenging&nbsp;South to North From Niha Fort&nbsp;to Bkassine Total ascent 433m&nbsp; Total descent 615m Level of difficulty Challenging&nbsp;The Bkassine side trail is U-shaped. Both ends start at Bkassine main square, one segment heading toward Jezzine village and the second toward Niha fort. To go from Mar Takla church in Bkassine square to Niha Fort, head east following footpaths and dirt roads to reach the abandoned village of Kfar Taala. Continue toward the river bed, crossing the old bridge near the water mill, then climb toward Aaray village. Follow the blazes to reach el Moukhalles Convent in Bhannine &nbsp;then go uphill to the paved road between Bater and Jezzine and further up past Ain el Malayke until you reach Niha fort entrance at the Shouf Biosphere Reserve. To go from Mar Taqla church in Bkassine square to Jezzine, head west to Bkassine pine forest. Turn left at La Maison de La Forêt then climb again into Bkassine pine forest to reach the paved road of Jezzine – Bkassine. Cross the road and climb up past Ain el Toghra, Jezzine country club and continue over to Ain el Zaarour. Walk for about 2km to a scenic overlook and enjoy the view to the West overlooking the sea. Walk downhill past Ain el Wasta to Wadi el Manzoul where old terraces are scattered along the stream until you reach the main Jezzine - Kfarhouna road. Continue uphill past Serhal palace through a beautiful forest. From there start your descent toward Jezzine.Important to know - There are no difficult passages along this section; the trail consists of dirt roads, footpaths and goat trails. - This section is completely marked.&nbsp; - If you plan to walk alone, please inform the LMTA about the dates of your trip at info@lebanontrail.org and ask for the GPS track. - For your stay and hike, contact the guesthouse or the guide few days before you start your trip.Getting there From Beirut, take the coastal highway south to Saida. From Saida, take the road toward Jezzine. Past Roum and Homsiyeh villages, take a turn to the left toward Bkassine.&nbsp;Source: Lebanon Mountain Trail Association

Lebanon Mountain Trail 

The Lebanon Mountain Trail extends from Andqet in the north of Lebanon to Marjaayoun in the south, a 470-km (292 miles) path that transects more than 76 towns and villages at altitude ranging from 570 meters to 2,073 meters (about 1,840-6800 feet) above sea level.You can either hike the whole trail or choose to hike a specific section.27 Sections 4 Side Trails 20,000 m Elevation Loss 20,000 m Elevation Gain 470 km Trail distance1 World Heritage Site 2 Biosphere Reserves 4 Nature Reserves 5 Protected Areas 6 Important Bird Areas Highest Point on the Trail (2073 m) Lowest Point on the Trail (570 m)-If you decide to walk on the LMT, you should know the following:The LMT is a dynamic trail since it crosses many private lands between the villages, every year excessive works on private and public lands making lots of damage to the trail. The result is destruction all year long, yearly deviations are being completed since to keep the trail safe and clear. Due to few traffic on some parts and the beginning of Spring season you will notice some high grass growing along some single tracks.The Lebanon Mountain Trail is a difficult trail in general, if you want to do the entire trail it can be described as a very difficult long distance trail, it has lot of gain and loss in altitude, it consist of footpaths, dirt and paved roads, rivers and streams crossing, walking on mountain ridges, slippery, steep descends and ascents, delicate and rocky passages, tiny irrigation water canals, water pipes and other types of terrain. In some parts of the sections you will only follow the blazing, no clear paths are visible. It is important to know that hikers must be fit to be fit enough physically and well trained for hiking in mountainous areas. &nbsp;You can ask for the mobile KMZ track (Google Earth version) in order to facilitate your navigation on the trail. You can install any online or offline app on your phone to use the KMZ file. (note the KMZ track is monthly updated to ensure a precise navigation with the marked sections).

Arsoun

Arsoun: Oaks and Pine Trees

This hike has been walked by the BAM team for you. <a href="https://www.wikiloc.com/hiking-trails/ba01-arsoun-oaks-and-pine-trees-132545006">Click here to hike this trail on our Wikiloc page</a> Description&nbsp; Trail Type: Circular loop Distance: 9,3 km Level: Easy to Moderate Time: 2h 5mins Best season: All year Route finding skills required: A bit Shade: A lot Advice Please note that most trails in Lebanon are not blazed (marked with signs for direction). Many take shepherds and hunters paths and require route finding skills. You should also add 30mins to 2h to the time indicated according to your pace. Preparation For the hike you will need:&nbsp; - A packback - Water Bottle - First Aid Kit - Snacks - Protection (Sunscreen, Glasses, Hat, Emergency Poncho) &nbsp;

Khraibeh

Khraibeh: at the foothills of Mount Chouf

This hike has been walked by the BAM team for you. <a href="https://www.wikiloc.com/hiking-trails/ch01-el-khraibe-at-the-foothills-of-mount-chouf-133534144">Click here to hike this trail on our Wikiloc page</a> Description&nbsp; Trail Type: Circular loop Distance: 13,51 km Level: Moderate to Difficult Time: 4h 17mins Best season: Spring, Autumn Route finding skills required: A bit Shade: No Advice Please note that most trails in Lebanon are not blazed (marked with signs for direction). Many take shepherds and hunters paths and require route finding skills. You should also add 30mins to 2h to the time indicated according to your pace. Preparation For the hike you will need:&nbsp; - A packback - Water Bottle - First Aid Kit - Snacks - Protection (Sunscreen, Glasses, Hat, Emergency Poncho) &nbsp;

Ras el Matn

Ras el Matn: sea and mountain views

This hike has been walked by the BAM team for you. <a href="https://www.wikiloc.com/hiking-trails/ba02-ras-el-metn-stunning-views-133534178">Click here to hike this trail on our Wikiloc page</a> Description&nbsp; Trail Type: Circular loop Distance: 6,33 km Level: Easy to Moderate Time: 2h Best season: All year Route finding skills required: No Shade: No Advice Please note that most trails in Lebanon are not blazed (marked with signs for direction). Many take shepherds and hunters paths and require route finding skills. You should also add 30mins to 2h to the time indicated according to your pace. Preparation For the hike you will need:&nbsp; - A packback - Water Bottle - First Aid Kit - Snacks - Protection (Sunscreen, Glasses, Hat, Emergency Poncho) &nbsp;

Boukaat Loubnan Trails

The Boukaat Loubnan Trail takes its name from the Old Testament's description of the Bekaa Valley. The Western and Eastern Mountain Chain, also known as the Anti Lebanon, are traversed by this trail, which is the first long distance trail to cover the two mountain chains. The inspiration for this trail came from Gilbert Moukheiber, who founded it. Gilbert, founder and manager of 33 North, a Lebanese adventure tour operator is renowned in Lebanon as the master of winter and trekking adventures. The cooperation of the Lebanese Army, the surrounding communities, and 33North's financial and logistical support allowed the route that exists today to become a reality. Every segment of the path has a linear and loop design.

Outdoor Guides - Lebanon Mountain Trail 

<a href="https://www.lebanontrail.org/hike-the-lmt-local-guides">Click here to check the list of the LMT Local guides</a> If you wish to visit the LMT and maximize your experience on the trail, we recommend that you contact a local guide corresponding to the section that you would like to hike. Walking with a local guide will ensure a more enjoyable experience and bring much-needed cash to local communities and youth in particular.Note that use of emails might not be so frequent in the villages. In case you don't receive any answer to your email, it is always a good idea to get in contact by direct phone call.One or more local guides are assigned to each of the 27 section of the LMT and each of the side trails. Booking a local guide will ensure you stay on the trail and maximise your experience on it; you'll have the proper information about you whole trip! Walking with a local guide will ensure a more enjoyable experience and bring much-needed cash to local communities and youth in particular, thus encouraging responsible tourism.Local guides know their section of the trail perfectly, some of them will be informative of the local culture and customs, history, flora, fauna, geology, and other interesting subjects. They will be informative about other sections on the trail as well. Some of the local guides listed played a major role in introducing the LMTA team to the old trails and footpaths near their respective villages. They are also well acquainted with the LMT sections and participated in validation trips and test-walks organised by the LMT project (2006-2008).Most of these guides also completed a training course designed and implemented by the LMTA in 2016. They are all rated with 2 boots, 1 boot or no boots.&nbsp;Accreditation: these guides have no legal status and have yet to obtain official recognition by Lebanese authorities (Ministry of Tourism).Because they may have other jobs, sometimes their availability is not guaranteed during weekdays. While some guides speak English or French, some have poor knowledge in these languages, Arabic remains their mother tongue. The LMTA do not suggest any guiding fees to be paid for any local guide ON the LMT. Local guides, and each one depending on his skills will suggest his daily fees for the hikers, he also&nbsp; will expect a modest sum to pay for their fare back to their village. Some of them might ask a higher price due to their experiences and knowledge. Once you contact the local guide make sure you agree for the fees.&nbsp;We therefore encourage you to pool with other interested hikers to reduce guide fees per person.&nbsp;

Dhour el Chweir

Dour el Chweir: old houses and views over Mount Saanine

This hike has been walked by the BAM team for you. <a href="https://www.wikiloc.com/hiking-trails/04-dour-chouair-old-houses-and-views-over-mount-saanine-134471614">Click here to hike this trail on our Wikiloc page</a> Description&nbsp; Trail Type: Circular loop Distance: 5,71 km Level:&nbsp;Easy to Moderate Time: 1h 38 mins Best season:&nbsp;Spring, Autumn Route finding skills required: No Shade: A bit Advice Please note that most trails in Lebanon are not blazed (marked with signs for direction). Many take shepherds and hunters paths and require route finding skills. You should also add 30mins to 2h to the time indicated according to your pace. Preparation For the hike you will need:&nbsp; - A packback - Water Bottle - First Aid Kit - Snacks - Protection (Sunscreen, Glasses, Hat, Emergency Poncho) &nbsp;

Chouf Nature Reserve (Barouk): Cedars and tranquility

This hike has been walked by the BAM team for you. <a href="https://www.wikiloc.com/hiking-trails/05-chouf-nature-reserve-barouk-cedars-and-tranquility-134539823">Click here to hike this trail on our Wikiloc page</a> Description&nbsp; Trail Type: Circular loop Distance: 9,87 km Elevation: 460m Level:&nbsp;Moderate to Difficult Time: 2h Best season: Spring, Autumn Route finding skills required: No Shade: A bit Advice Please note that most trails in Lebanon are not blazed (marked with signs for direction). Many take shepherds and hunters paths and require route finding skills. You should also add 30mins to 2h to the time indicated according to your pace. Preparation For the hike you will need:&nbsp; - A packback - Water Bottle - First Aid Kit - Snacks - Protection (Sunscreen, Glasses, Hat, Emergency Poncho) &nbsp;

Qehmez

Jabal Moussa Nature Reserve (Qehmez entrance): Old houses trail

This hike has been walked by the BAM team for you. <a href="https://www.wikiloc.com/hiking-trails/06-jabal-moussa-nature-reserve-qehmez-entrance-old-houses-trail-137560710">Click here to hike this trail on our Wikiloc page</a> Description&nbsp; Trail Type: Circular loop Distance: 7km Elevation: 400m Level: Moderate to Difficult Time: 1h30 Best season:&nbsp;Spring, Summer, Autumn Route finding skills required: No Shade: A lot Advice Please note that most trails in Lebanon are not blazed (marked with signs for direction). Many take shepherds and hunters paths and require route finding skills. You should also add 30mins to 2h to the time indicated according to your pace.Preparation For the hike you will need:&nbsp; - A packback - Water Bottle - First Aid Kit - Snacks - Protection (Sunscreen, Glasses, Hat, Emergency Poncho) &nbsp;

Jabal Moussa Nature Reserve (Qehmez entrance): to the cross via Hadrian incline

This hike has been walked by the BAM team for you. <a href="https://www.wikiloc.com/hiking-trails/07-jabal-moussa-nature-reserve-qehmez-entrance-to-the-cross-via-hadrian-incline-137560784">Click here to hike this trail on our Wikiloc page</a> Description&nbsp; Trail Type:&nbsp;Circular loop Distance: 7,65 km Elevation: 545m Level: Moderate to Difficult Time: 2h Best season:&nbsp;Spring, Summer, Autumn Route finding skills required: No Shade:&nbsp;A lot Advice Please note that most trails in Lebanon are not blazed (marked with signs for direction). Many take shepherds and hunters paths and require route finding skills. You should also add 30mins to 2h to the time indicated according to your pace.Preparation For the hike you will need:&nbsp; - A packback - Water Bottle - First Aid Kit - Snacks - Protection (Sunscreen, Glasses, Hat, Emergency Poncho)