A demanding full-day adventure through the ancient ridgelines of Wadi Ghalilah. Expect steep stone staircases carved into cliff faces, sweeping views over the Hajar Mountains, and a raw, rugged atmosphere. Relentless on the legs, but absolutely unforgettable.
Date: Saturday, 4 April, 2026
Meeting Time: 7:00 AM
Location: Wadi Ghalilah, RAK
Meeting Point: Shared via WhatsApp
Distance: 12 km
Hike Time: ~7 hours
Elevation Gain: 1200 m
Transport: Self-drive (not included)
Hard
Long distance + a full-day effort. Expect sustained movement and endurance pacing. Recommended for experienced hikers with strong fitness.
1. About the Trail
Stairway to Heaven is a full-day mountain challenge, tracing ancient shepherd staircases up the dramatic cliffs of Wadi Ghalilah. We'll push through steep elevation gain, narrow ridgelines, and raw mountain terrain, with big views over the Hajar Mountains as your reward at the top.
One of the UAE's most iconic and challenging hikes, featuring ancient stone staircases carved into sheer cliff faces.
Long, exposed ridgelines with breathtaking panoramic views that make every tough step worth it.
Guided by The Hike & Co. leaders with planned breaks at key points along the route.
2. What’s Included
🍎 Snacks & fruits
💧 Electrolytes
🥤 Post-hike refreshments
⛑️ Certified first-aider
🛡️ Insurance coverage
📸 Photography
😊 Friendly group vibes
3. Essentials to Bring
Minimum 2–3 liters of water (per adult)
Small backpack
Snacks or energy bars
Sun protection (cap, sunscreen, lip balm)
Optional: light windbreaker for the viewpoint breeze
4. Recommended Outfit
Breathable hiking pants/leggings
Moisture-wicking top
Hiking shoes with good grip (recommended)
Cap or head cover (required)
Optional: sunglasses (golden-hour glare can be strong)
5. Trail Difficulty Guide
This trail is graded: Moderate.
Here’s how we classify UAE trails:
Beginner
Flat terrain, very easy (Kids Friendly)
Easy
Gentle slopes, well-marked (Kids Friendly)
Easy+
Light rock scrambling
Moderate
Steady pace over rocky terrain
Moderate+
Steeper ascents, more technical
Hard
Demanding terrain & elevation
Stairway To Heaven — Full Day Hike
A demanding full-day adventure through the ancient ridgelines of Wadi Ghalilah. Expect steep stone staircases carved into cliff faces, sweeping views over the Hajar Mountains, and a raw, rugged atmosphere. Relentless on the legs, but absolutely unforgettable.
Date: Saturday, 4 April, 2026
Meeting Time: 7:00 AM
Location: Wadi Ghalilah, RAK
Meeting Point: Shared via WhatsApp
Distance: 12 km
Hike Time: ~7 hours
Elevation Gain: 1200 m
Transport: Self-drive (not included)
Hard
Long distance + a full-day effort. Expect sustained movement and endurance pacing. Recommended for experienced hikers with strong fitness.
1. About the Trail
Stairway to Heaven is a full-day mountain challenge, tracing ancient shepherd staircases up the dramatic cliffs of Wadi Ghalilah. We'll push through steep elevation gain, narrow ridgelines, and raw mountain terrain, with big views over the Hajar Mountains as your reward at the top.
One of the UAE's most iconic and challenging hikes, featuring ancient stone staircases carved into sheer cliff faces.
Long, exposed ridgelines with breathtaking panoramic views that make every tough step worth it.
Guided by The Hike & Co. leaders with planned breaks at key points along the route.
2. What’s Included
🍎 Snacks & fruits
💧 Electrolytes
🥤 Post-hike refreshments
⛑️ Certified first-aider
🛡️ Insurance coverage
📸 Photography
😊 Friendly group vibes
3. Essentials to Bring
Minimum 2–3 liters of water (per adult)
Small backpack
Snacks or energy bars
Sun protection (cap, sunscreen, lip balm)
Optional: light windbreaker for the viewpoint breeze
4. Recommended Outfit
Breathable hiking pants/leggings
Moisture-wicking top
Hiking shoes with good grip (recommended)
Cap or head cover (required)
Optional: sunglasses (golden-hour glare can be strong)
