To hike or not to hike? The mix of challenges brought along by the pandemic and Oman’s unforgiving summer makes a lot of us default on the latter. But to live a sedentary lifestyle is also dangerous and being jailed at home is not doing anyone’s mental health any good.
Hiking is still allowed if practised within the parameters set by the Supreme Committee which means avoid going on hikes with big groups and observing proper social distancing and safety precautions while doing it.
With that initial fear addressed, one does not need to drive far to explore some of the city’s fascinating short hikes destinations. Even before the pandemic and during the summer period, seasoned hikers had been doing short hikes with some taking advantage of the cover of early morning darkness and cooler clime or the usually tamed temperature in late afternoons. The same can be done as well even during this period.
These short hikes destinations usually can be covered in two hours (back and forth). Here are my 5 favourite short hikes within the city:
Muttrah GeoTrek
All amateur hikers would have explored the Muttrah GeoTrek by now. Located right at the heart of the city, this hike gives you a magnificent view of Riyam Park, Muttrah, and the seaport once you reach the top. Currently, Muttrah has two trails and both the trails ideally take around 60-90 minutes each. The old trail is a combination of uphill and downhill paths. The trail navigates through the small pools and hence some of the rocks are slippery and one needs to be careful in those parts. This trail culminates near the Muttrah Souq. The new trail is relatively flat mostly giving a different and closer view of Riyam Park and ending near the Palace.
Both of these trails are non-loop trails which means the start and the endpoints are different. I would rate both the hikes as easy and can be done with your kids as well. As a beginner, you may find the steps at the start of the hike a bit steep and you may run out of breath. The trail gets bifurcated into two once you reach the top from where you have a clear view of the harbour. The new trail is marked with the arrow (written as “Muscat”). Both the trails are well marked with the three-colour hiking flag throughout.
Al Khoud Trek
It is a great option if one is willing to go for a short thrilling hike. The trail is in between the mountains and the meadows. Ideally one can finish the hike in an hour without getting exhausted. However, the trail is interesting and at one point there is a long aluminium ladder at the edge of the mountain. The ladder is long and one needs to climb down to continue in the trail. Wadi Al Khoud hike ends at a small wadi, currently having enough water to dip your feet or even take a plunge. The water is cold enough and the place is just perfect to sit and chill for some time after the hike.
Ghala Flag Hike
The Ghala Flag Hike is just about 20-30 minutes’ drive within the city. For a beginner attempting an uphill climb with decent elevation, this one is perfect for practice. With an elevation of almost 400 metres, this definitely tests your stamina. I suggest starting the hike early and reaching the top before sunrise as it can get really hot on top. The hike is quite steep for a beginner with the rays of the sun aimed directly at you and there’s barely any shade on the way to help you cool down. This mountain has three connecting points with flags, all plausible to conquer depending on your stamina and experience. Once you are on the top, you can have a stunning view of the city and the Ghala village just next to each other. Bausher dunes are also visible in a distance. Right below the mountain, a couple of hot springs are available, which is a perfect place to relax after the hike and it has got medicinal benefits too.
Bandar Al Khairan
If you are a sunrise/sunset lover, you must explore this place. Be it sunrise or sunset, the view is magnificent and it will stay in your mind forever. This hike is on the cliffside. The view from the mountains of the vast sea and its endless waves is so serene and relaxing. This hike can be attempted by anyone including beginners as it’s mostly flat. The only advice here is to be careful when you are near the cliff and always make sure to provide some distance with you and the edge. This trail is not marked with usual flag colours but some places have stone markers that avid hikers usually understand. This trail has no specific duration as you can go as far as your feet can take you. If you are lucky, from the cliff, you can see sea turtles floating by the emerald waters. Just 45 minutes drive from Muscat, park your car at the Bandar Al Khairan parking and you can start your hike right away as the pathway to the mountains is self-explanatory.
Sidab Hike
Last but not least, Sidab hike is a combination of all the above — meaning you have a beautiful ocean view, challenging cliff hikes, and a steep climb to the top of the mountain. The trail is well marked and not very long but the start of the hike will be challenging for beginners as it’s very steep and can be slippery. Do not attempt this trail if it’s raining. After passing through a cemetery, the mountain trail would lead you to an aluminium ladder with a few metres of steep climb ahead. Once you crossed this path, the rest of the hike will be manageable even to a beginner. The cliffside view of this trail offers a panoramic view of the ocean and from here, you can see a part of Muttrah Sea Road. You will also be able to see the Al Bustan Hotel. A little further down the trail will take you to the first pebble beach which has a beautiful pyramid-shaped rock... a perfect place for some beautiful clicks. The trail is not yet over as the best view comes only after crossing the second mountain. In addition, you will be able to see the famous elephant-shaped rock too. At the end of the trail, there is an old cemetery. From here, you can sit awhile and enjoy the serene view of the endless waves playing.
POINTS TO PONDER:
Hiking on cliffs and mountains can both be enjoyable and exciting but they also pose their own set of risks. Before selecting a place to hike, make sure to do your research. It is always recommended to go with expert hikers or with some professional teams that regularly organise these short hikes. Some groups you can check on Instagram are @exploreandchallenge,@changeyourroutine, or @ahmedaljaabri. Remember to carry at least 1.5 litres of water in a small backpack and throw in some snacks or fruits to nibble while you’re resting and enjoying the view. Ultimately, remember to never litter in these beautiful places. Please carry a waste bag in your backpack to collect the trash. Keep the trails clean so the other explorers can also enjoy their pristine conditions like you did.
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