DO NOT ATTEMPT THIS ROUTE DURING THE RAINY SEASON.

This route briefly begins on tarmac, passing lush greenery and numerous camel farms. As you make your way to the foot of the Shada mountain range, the track quickly changes to unforgiving terrain. The rough ground here will be a good indicator of your ability to continue as the route becomes more challenging the further you go. The rocky mountain tracks eventually lead to an open space which, surrounded by towering cliffs, exposes the sheer size of the landscape.

The road gets even trickier (yet thrilling!) as you drive directly on top of gigantic granite rocks. The unestablished track can be hard to navigate but try to follow the map as closely as possible. Further along the route, the terrain changes again and desert roses, cacti and green shrubs can be seen dotted between the mountain rocks. Go slow as you may encounter some mountain goats and baboons along the way.

GRANITE ROCKS

The giant granite rocks serve as both road and landscape on this route, making for a challenging yet invigorating drive. Over time, the water has eroded the rock, forming distinctive patterns and shapes. The granite road looks fairly smooth (and will likely be slippy when wet) whereas the huge boulders beside are jagged with remains of ruined houses sitting amongst them. Driving across the rocks is a unique off-roading experience not to be missed.

Hudah Village

The track leads you to this charming and quaint village where houses are perched on top of the cliffs. Despite the harsh terrain, the settlement enjoys mild summer temperatures all year round and like many local mountain villages, Hudah appears to be undergoing some redevelopment. The traditional mountain way of life remains intact, however, with villagers growing fruit trees such as apricot, mulberries and dates, and collecting rainfall water directly from the mountain. Just be mindful of peoples’ privacy when exploring; binoculars and photography are prohibited within the village vicinity.

QASABA STONE TOWERS

In Al Bahah city, you will notice watchtowers on almost every hill. The stone towers, known as 'qasaba', were built to protect villages from invading tribes. Believed to date back to the Ottoman times, these watchtowers are part of the city’s historical landmarks and have earned the city the title of 'The Land of a Thousand and One Watchtowers'.

Jabal Shada al A’la

Jabal Shada al A’la is the highest peak in the Shada mountain range rising 2,202m above sea level. There are numerous viewpoints along the route which provide plenty of photo opportunities. However, due to the altitude, the mountain is often engulfed in fog. If you’re lucky enough to have clear skies, you will see the winding valley with its picturesque settlements on your right and a rocky mountainous landscape on your left. It is hard to see where the track ends so exercise caution as you reach the mountain’s edge.

THE ECHOES OF SCREAMING BABOONS ARE HEARD THROUGHOUT THE VALLEYS IN THIS REGION. NOT ALWAYS EASY TO SPOT, THEY CAN  BE SEEN PEERING OUT FROM BEHIND ROCKY OUTCROPS AND CLIMBING THROUGH TREES.

Shada Mountain Reserve

Protected by the Saudi Wildlife Authority, the 68km² area is home to a vast amount of flora and fauna, including juniper and wild olives, as well as many herbal plants and grasses. The reserve is also abundant with wildlife and there have been recorded sightings of baboons, wolves, caracal and the endangered Arabian leopard. While the cooler climates make for pleasant climbing conditions, just be wary if you are camping overnight.