The best running trails in the Hejaz Mountains

The Hejaz Mountains offer a diverse and rugged landscape for running. You'll encounter steep cliffs, deep valleys known as wadis, and varied elevations. Some routes feature prehistoric lava flows, called harras, which create striking, dark basaltic fields, adding a unique geological element to your run.

Yes, the Hejaz Mountains provide a range of running routes. While there are no routes classified as 'easy' in our current selection, you'll find 10 moderate and 6 difficult routes, catering to runners looking for varied challenges. The region's varied topography allows for different intensities.

Absolutely. The Hejaz Mountains are home to several long-distance running routes. For example, the Wadi Rum Petroglyphs – Al-Khazali Canyon loop from Wadi Rum Village is a challenging 36-mile (58 km) trail. Another option is the Um Fruth loop from Desert Bird Camp, which spans 27.3 miles (43.9 km) through desert landscapes.

Yes, many of the running routes in the Hejaz Mountains are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For instance, the Jordanian Flagpole – View of Israel loop from Aqaba is a moderate 3.8-mile (6.1 km) circular path, and the Palm Trees at Night loop from Aqaba offers an 11.2 km circular experience.

The Hejaz Mountains boast stunning natural attractions. Many routes pass through or near geological wonders like the Rock Arch in Wadi Rum, the iconic Seven Pillars of Wisdom, and the dramatic Al-Khazali Canyon. You might also encounter vast red sand dunes, such as the Red Sand Dune in Wadi Rum.

While primarily known for natural beauty, the region does have historical significance. For example, the Lawrence and Prince Faisal Rock Carvings are a notable man-made monument you might encounter. The city of Aqaba, a starting point for some routes, also offers cultural points of interest like the Al-Sharif Al-Hussein bin Ali Mosque and the Aqaba Bazaar.

The running routes in the Hejaz Mountains are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 5.0 stars from reviewers. Runners often praise the unique desert landscapes, the challenging yet rewarding terrain, and the stunning views, especially those towards Israel from coastal routes near Aqaba.

Given the desert climate, the cooler months from late autumn to early spring (roughly October to April) are generally the most comfortable for running in the Hejaz Mountains. During these times, temperatures are more moderate, making long runs more enjoyable and reducing the risk of heat-related issues. It's advisable to start early in the morning to avoid the midday sun, even in cooler seasons.

Yes, several routes provide exceptional views. The Jordanian Flagpole – View of Israel loop from Aqaba and the Camel Sculpture in Aqaba – View of Israel loop from Aqaba both offer scenic perspectives towards Israel from the coastal city of Aqaba, often with glimpses of the Red Sea.

Due to the rugged and often rocky terrain, sturdy trail running shoes with good grip are highly recommended. Lightweight, breathable clothing is essential, and layers are advisable for early morning or evening runs when temperatures can be cooler. Don't forget sun protection, including a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as well as ample water, especially for longer routes.

While specific crowd levels can vary, routes further into the desert, such as those originating from camps in Wadi Rum like the Running loop from Wadi Rum 7 Pillars Camp or the Running loop from Alamelh Camp, tend to offer a more solitary experience compared to routes closer to urban centers like Aqaba.

Komoot features over 15 running routes in the Hejaz Mountains, offering a wide variety of distances and difficulty levels to explore the region's unique landscapes.