Jordan Trail

Starting near the historic town of Bani Kenanah in northern Jordan, this epic point-to-point trek stretches approximately 658 km (409 miles) southward, with a staggering elevation gain of about 19,800 meters (65,000 feet). The route traverses the entire length of Jordan, ending at the Red Sea in Aqaba, and is considered one of the most challenging long-distance hikes in the Middle East.

Getting There and Trail Access

To reach the trailhead, travelers can fly into Queen Alia International Airport in Amman. From Amman, public buses and shared taxis run regularly to Irbid, the nearest major city to Bani Kenanah. From Irbid, local taxis can take you directly to the starting point near Bani Kenanah, a town known for its proximity to the ancient ruins of Gadara (Umm Qais), which offers panoramic views over the Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights.

Trail Overview and Navigation

The Jordan Trail is divided into eight main sections, each offering a unique landscape and cultural experience. Hikers will need to be prepared for long, remote stretches with limited resupply points. Navigation is crucial—download detailed maps and GPS tracks from HiiKER before setting out, as waymarking can be inconsistent in some regions.

Landmarks and Historical Highlights

• Northern Highlands and Roman Ruins
  The first section winds through olive groves and rolling hills, passing close to the ancient city of Gadara, a Decapolis city with extensive Roman ruins. The trail continues south through Ajloun, home to a 12th-century castle built by Saladin’s forces, and the lush Ajloun Forest Reserve, where oak, pistachio, and strawberry trees dominate the landscape.

• Biblical Valleys and Crusader Castles
  Descending into the Jordan Valley, hikers skirt the edges of the Dead Sea Rift, passing through biblical sites such as Pella and the mosaic-rich town of Madaba. The route climbs steeply to the imposing Crusader fortress of Kerak, perched atop a rocky outcrop with sweeping views of the surrounding valleys.

• Dana Biosphere Reserve and Wadi Feynan
  One of the most celebrated sections is the traverse through Dana Biosphere Reserve, Jordan’s largest nature reserve. Here, the trail drops from the cool highlands into the arid expanse of Wadi Feynan, a region rich in copper mining history dating back to the Bronze Age. The biodiversity is remarkable, with chances to spot Nubian ibex, hyrax, and a variety of raptors.

• Petra and the Desert Wilderness
  The route leads directly into the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Petra, entering through the lesser-known “Back Door” via Little Petra. After exploring the ancient Nabatean city, the trail continues through the dramatic sandstone canyons and domes of Wadi Rum, a landscape immortalized in Lawrence of Arabia and known for its Bedouin culture and prehistoric petroglyphs.

• Final Stretch to the Red Sea
  The last leg is a rugged descent through the granite mountains of southern Jordan, ending at the Gulf of Aqaba. The finish line is marked by the turquoise waters and coral reefs of the Red Sea, a stark contrast to the arid interior.

Nature, Wildlife, and Climate

Expect a wide range of ecosystems, from Mediterranean woodlands in the north to arid desert in the south. Spring (March to May) is the best time to hike, when wildflowers bloom and temperatures are moderate. Summer brings extreme heat, especially in the southern deserts, while winter can see snow in the highlands. Wildlife includes jackals, foxes, hyenas, and a rich variety of birds, especially in the reserves.

Preparation and Logistics

Given the trail’s length and difficulty, thorough preparation is essential. Water sources are scarce in many sections—carry purification methods and plan resupplies carefully. Accommodation options range from homestays and guesthouses in villages to wild camping in remote areas. Local communities are welcoming, and many offer meals and logistical support to hikers.

The Jordan Trail is a journey through time and terrain, demanding both physical endurance and careful planning. For navigation, always rely on HiiKER for the latest route updates and waypoints.