Whilst much of this route is paved, the off-road sections can be challenging and take a considerable amount of time to navigate. It is a route full of diverse experiences so make sure you give it a full day, or camp to really make the most of it.

The stunning views from the escarpment are without a doubt the highlight of this route, but there are also plenty of challenging tracks that lead to some remarkable ruins. The remains of a sizeable red stone structure are nestled into the flat plain of the plateau and there are ruins of more established settlements that you can explore.

The entire route is also littered with cactus farms and areas where it has broken loose and claimed patches of the mountain side.

  Ekrimah Dam

Originally built during the reign of King Saud bin Abdulaziz Al Saud in 1955 CE, the dam has since been fortified and a concrete bridge spans the reservoir in front of it. The bridge is closed to the public, but you can see in from the road, or take a walk across the floodplain at the front of the dam to get a better view.

  Cactus Farms

Dotted along this route, the farms exclusively grow the prickly pear cactus. These thick, bulbous plants suit the rugged terrain they call home, thriving despite the lack of water. Some of the route takes you close to these farms, so watch both the plants and your car’s paint work as you drive past.

CACTUS FARMING

Tucked into the side of the mountains in this area, prickly pear farms are a common sight. The ability to grow anywhere makes it an ideal crop in regions with limited rainfall. The plants produce red fruits which can be eaten fresh, freeze dried or preserved in a jam or syrup. They are also gaining the reputation of a super food as they are high in antioxidants and essential minerals.

  Red Stone Ruins

Sitting in a section of the plateau before the Harithi Escarpment, red stone ruins indicate a history of sizeable human settlement in the area. The fact that these low walls, once towers, large buildings and outhouses, are still standing is evidence of the impressive craftsmanship of the ancient inhabitants of these flat plains.

DRIVING DIRECTION

Easily accessed from a main highway, this route follows a paved road before drivers encounter rocky tracks leading to the Harithi Escarpment.

  1     From Ekrimah Dam, continue on the paved road past farms.

  2     Take the rocky road up for views and camping. Return to the paved road to continue the route.

  3     Bear right to drive along the Harithi Escarpment and stop to explore.

  4     Turn left to explore the red stone ruins or proceed straight to finish the route.