Wadi Dana Trail | Karak

Information

Landmark: Wadi Dana Trail
City: Karak
Country: Jordan
Continent: Asia

Wadi Dana Trail, Karak, Jordan, Asia

The Wadi Dana Trail is a 14-kilometer linear hiking route that descends through the Dana Biosphere Reserve from Dana Village to the Feynan area. It serves as a primary ecological corridor connecting the high-altitude Sharah Mountains to the low-lying Wadi Araba desert.

Visual Characteristics

The trail spans an elevation drop of approximately 1,200 meters, transitioning from limestone and dolomite cliffs in the highlands to red and white sandstone formations in the mid-section, and finally to dark volcanic granite and gravel plains at the base. Vegetation shifts from Mediterranean oak and juniper forests to arid-zone acacia and phoenix daphne. The path follows the floor of a wide canyon, flanked by vertical rock walls that exhibit significant erosion patterns and cross-bedding.

Location & Access Logistics

The trailhead is located at the western end of Dana Village, accessed via the King’s Highway (Route 35). The trail ends at Feynan Ecolodge, which is accessed from the west via the Dead Sea Highway (Route 65). This is a one-way hike; transport must be pre-arranged to ferry hikers back to the village (a 2-hour drive) or to provide pickup at the Feynan end. Public transport to the trailheads is nonexistent, necessitating private vehicles or pre-booked shuttles.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The trail follows a natural drainage path used for millennia by local Bedouin tribes and ancient traders moving between the plateau and the rift valley. Geologically, the trail exposes layers of the Earth's crust dating back over 500 million years. The route was formally designated as a protected hiking path by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN) following the reserve's establishment in 1989.

Key Highlights & Activities

Hiking is the central activity, typically taking 5 to 7 hours to complete. The route provides opportunities for viewing the Nubian Ibex and various birds of prey, such as the Griffon Vulture, which nest in the cliff faces. Observation of the distinct geological transition from sedimentary to igneous rock is a primary focus. The trail passes several seasonal Bedouin camps and ancient agricultural terraces.

Infrastructure & Amenities

There are no amenities along the 14-kilometer path. No restrooms, permanent shade structures, or water stations exist between Dana Village and Feynan. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is lost shortly after descending from the village and does not return until reaching the Feynan area. Hikers must carry all necessary water (minimum 3-4 liters) and food. The path is marked by stone cairns, but the route generally follows the natural canyon floor.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal window is from March to May and October to November. During winter, the trail is subject to flash flood risks and can be dangerously cold and windy. In summer, temperatures on the canyon floor regularly exceed 40°C, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion. Early morning departures (07:00 or 08:00) are mandatory to finish the hike before the peak heat of the afternoon.

Facts & Legends

Local Bedouin tradition refers to certain rock formations along the trail as "The Seven Sisters," associated with regional folklore regarding the canyon's protection. A critical logistical fact: the descent is physically demanding on the knees and ankles due to the constant downward gradient and loose gravel. A permit from the RSCN visitor center in Dana Village is required before starting the hike to ensure ranger tracking for safety.