LOA

Al-Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve Hike with LOA.

Dear Lebanese Outdoor Adventurers (LOA), Join us this Sunday for a colorful hike in Barouk.

HIKE DESCRIPTION: The largest of Lebanon’s nature reserves, Al-Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve stretches from Dahr Al-Baidar in the north to Niha Mountain in the south. The reserve’s most famous attractions are its three magnificent cedar forests: Maasser Al-Shouf, Barouk, and Ain Zhalta–Bmohary. These cedar forests account for a quarter of the remaining cedar forests in Lebanon, and some trees are estimated to be 2,000 years old.

Our trail will start at the main gate using the Fraidiss patriotic trail among the cedars, at an altitude of 1350 meters above sea level, going towards “Massyaf El Mir”. We will go up to reach the cedar forest at 1800m. We will walk a part of the higher trail before heading down towards the artificial lake, and then towards the Acacia area before ending the hike at the entrance of the reserve. This expedition will include multiple short breaks to allow for enjoying nature and the scenery.

• Date: Sunday, June 1st, 2025
• Level: Moderate Plus / Hiking duration: 4h 30mn
• Distance: 12.5 km / Altitude range: 1350-1850m / Slope Variation: 500m
• Meeting: 7:30 am, Jal-el-Dib, behind DHL, at the parking lot.
• We can pick up the hikers who live on our way.)
• Departure: 8:00 am (SHARP).
• Breakfast stop on our way (15 minutes)
• Estimated time of arrival back in Beirut: 6:00 pm

To be prepared for this hike, you will need:
• Hiking shoes, Hat, sunscreen & sunglasses, Lightweight jacket
• Healthy snacks (sandwiches, energy bars, dried fruits, nuts…), Water (2.5 liters)
• ID & personal insurance cards.
• Don’t forget your positive vibes and smile
Contribution: 20 USD + additional entrance fees to Barouk reserve: Lebanese: 5 USD / Foreigner 10$ (or equivalent market rate in LBP) to include: Transportation, LOA guides, reserve entry fee, and first aid kit, but does not cover medical insurance.