Unveiling Lebanon’s Lost Trails: A Hike Through Paradise and Hell Valleys
Despite everything, I continue to shed light on a truth as I see it—hoping it will brighten your morning, soothe your night, and perhaps even guide you toward an escape from the pressures of daily life. It is a well-established fact that nature and physical activity help combat stress and negative emotions. Now, imagine their combined power when embraced even once a week.
Lebanon, blessed with an unparalleled natural diversity, offers landscapes that awaken the senses and soothe the soul. Why not cherish what is rightfully ours—without harming it—so we can preserve its splendor for generations to come? Responsible hiking ensures that we leave no trace, safeguarding fragile ecosystems and their inhabitants.
A Tale of Two Valleys: The Wilderness That Unites Them
Today’s journey brings together two valleys from different districts—bearing opposing names yet sharing a remarkable natural richness. These landscapes harbor one of Lebanon’s most biodiverse ecosystems, home to rare plant species, diverse wildlife, and thriving ecological habitats.
From Wadi Janna (Paradise Valley)—a name earned by its heavenly nature—to Wadi Jahannam (Hell Valley), unfairly burdened by its ominous title despite being a true Eden of untamed beauty. This adventure is not for the faint-hearted; the trails demand ascents and descents with steep inclines in certain sections, requiring a high level of physical fitness. That said, Lebanon boasts numerous nature reserves offering leisurely strolls with minimal effort for those who prefer a more relaxed experience.
Geographical Landmarks
Wadi Janna lies in the Jbeil district, approximately 62 km from Beirut, at an altitude of 700 meters above sea level.
Wadi Jahannam is located at the northernmost tip of Dinniyeh in the Akkar Governorate, around 138 km from Beirut, with elevations ranging between 800 and 2,000 meters above sea level.
A Glimpse of Paradise: The Mythical Waters of the Ibrahim River
Flowing through the valley between Jbeil and Keserwan, the Ibrahim River is steeped in Greek mythology, forever linked to the tragic fate of the god Adonis. Each spring, as the river’s waters turn red due to soil runoff, legend attributes this phenomenon to the blood of Adonis, spilled upon his fatal wounding by a boar—sent by the god Ares out of jealousy. His lifeblood mingled with the tears of Astarte as she mourned his death.
Beyond its mythical past, the Ibrahim River boasts an extraordinary ecological wealth, stretching across its course. Today, it is safeguarded as part of the Jabal Moussa Biosphere Reserve, and researchers have documented rare plant species along its banks—some believed to have vanished from existence elsewhere.
We begin our journey surrounded by the rugged rocky mountains that embrace the valley, carving a path downward into vast expanses of land. The first stretch is adorned with apple orchards, a cultivated touch to the wild terrain.
But as we venture further, we step into a realm almost untouched by human presence—its pristine wilderness speaking to an era before modern footprints.
Eventually, we reach the fertile heart of the valley, where the Ibrahim River flows between the craggy peaks of Mount Lebanon, its banks lush with towering trees. Here, the riverbed transforms into a mesmerizing aquatic tapestry—endless strands of river plants sway rhythmically beneath the surface, dancing between the shallows and deeper currents, crafting a scene of unparalleled beauty.
Retracing our steps, we ascend back to reality, carrying with us the essence of a dream—one that lingers in memory, etched in the photographs that hold onto its beauty long after the landscape fades from sight.
Wadi Jahannam: A Paradise in Disguise
Regarded as Lebanon’s deepest valley, and possibly one of the deepest in the Middle East, Wadi Jahannam plunges hundreds of meters between towering rock walls. Its dramatic elevation ranges from 850 to 2,000 meters above sea level, creating a breathtaking landscape rich with pine and fir forests, dense woodlands, and numerous natural springs. The valley serves as one of Lebanon’s most water-abundant regions, collecting runoff from the Dinniyeh and Akkar mountains, ultimately feeding into the Northern Nahr Al-Bared River.
Despite its ominous name, Wadi Jahannam is, in reality, a paradise of biodiversity. It shelters over 2,200 plant species, many of which are exceptionally rare. However, legend has it that the valley was named "Hell Valley" due to the suffering endured by French soldiers during World War I, as they struggled to cut and transport timber through its perilous terrain. The valley’s treacherous slopes, combined with other local tales, further contributed to its formidable name.
Hiking Through Wadi Jahannam: A Journey of a Thousand Views
Our adventure begins in a remote village, where the trail ascends through lush orchards of apples, peaches, and abundant vegetable fields—with green beans thriving in this particular region.
As we climb higher, we leave behind cultivated lands and step into a vast untamed wilderness, where goat herders are likely the only ones who have walked these paths. The valley bursts with a rich variety of plant life, some towering beyond human height, creating a raw and untouched spectacle of nature.
From the sheer rock walls to the valley’s depths and back up again, the trail unfolds a thousand breathtaking scenes—each one more striking than the last. Some spots are so awe-inspiring and physically demanding that capturing them in a photograph is simply impossible.
Naturally, springs and waterfalls dot the route, offering moments of serene beauty. At our final stop, we stumble upon a hidden gem—a gathering place for local children, lucky enough to experience a natural playground that city kids can only dream of.
Are We Truly Worthy of Nature’s Grace?
The real question remains: Are we deserving of the extraordinary natural wonders we have been given? Some of these landscapes are rare, others are breathtakingly perfect, yet all of them are in our hands to cherish—or destroy.
When will we finally recognize the urgent need to protect our home—our environment, our nature—the very essence of our survival? It is our refuge from pollution, our sanctuary from the chaos of daily life, and the foundation of our existence. Without it, we cease to exist.
Let’s explore, cherish, and protect Lebanon—one trail at a time.
Stay Safe & Tread Lightly
Don’t Go Solo: Always hike with a trusted companion or a professional local guide who understands the terrain. If you need help finding an authentic guide, feel free to reach out—I’ll connect you to the best, safest, and most reliable adventure experts.
Pack In, Pack Out: Carry your trash back with you. Never leave waste behind.
Respect Wildlife & Plants: Avoid stepping on or picking plants, and keep a safe distance from animals. Do not disturb or remove any natural elements.
Follow Local Guidelines: Adhere to trail rules, stay on marked paths, and be mindful of fragile habitats.
A little thoughtfulness goes a long way toward preserving the places we love. Enjoy your adventure responsibly, and help keep nature pristine for future generations!
About Nidal Majdalani
Nidal Majdalani is a renowned travel writer, tourism expert, photographer, and explorer, celebrated for her vivid storytelling and passion for Lebanon’s exploration through her “Travelling Lebanon” initiative since 2010, supporting local communities. With over a decade of experience capturing Lebanon’s natural, cultural, historical, and culinary treasures, she is also the sole author of the Lebanon guide for Lonely Planet’s Middle East book- 2025. Through her journeys, Nidal invites readers to see Lebanon through her words and lens, showcasing its hidden gems while curating one-of-a-kind itineraries for unforgettable experiences.
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A call to action:
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