2nuksabroad: Snake Gorge

We were a bit nervous about hiking Snake Gorge, for one, the name makes one a bit eery! And secondly, most people said once you go, there's no turning back, and to bring a rope. I am happy to report that no one in our group came across any snakes, although the water was really murky so who knows if they really exist in the gorge...

Oman is renowned for the wadis (dry riverbed) and Snake Gorge is one of the best. Mostly because this hike has water, jumps, caves, and water slides! You need a least 2 4x4s for the hike (one for the trailhead and one for the end, although you can walk the additional 4km uphill hike back to the trailhead car afterward). Our partners in crime here (figuratively speaking) Pete and Zan invited us along with their boot camp crew to try out Snake Gorge. 5am came early, but is needed to avoid the high mid-day temps. We met our convoy of 7 SUVs and then drove about 1.5 hr into the interior. They're building a new paved road for the first half of the drive but it is still best to have a 4x4.

Approximate location of snake gorge

We parked the cars and the group (about 20 strong, a big group for this hike) piled into 4 trucks and headed up the 4km gravel road to the top of the trail. The start has the biggest jump, about a 6m drop and at this point there is no turning back. Because of no escape routes due to sheer cliff faces, it is critical that the weather forecast is checked before starting. If it rains the wadi turns into a raging torrent with no way out. Even clouds far off can mean rain flowing into Snake Gorge (apparently there is a local number you can call to get a weather forecast and conditions before heading out). It is also critical to lower someone using a rope into each pool of water before jumping to check the depth and ensure it's safe as water levels do change.

The hike took about 3 hours (~ 4 1/2 for those with a fear of heights). The scenery was spectacular, and the jumps a blast! The rock waterslide was cool, with a curve in it so you can't see the bottom. Then there was the swim-through cave complete with stalactites.

Driving to the trailhead

At the start - everybody in water shoes and rash guards

First drop!

Second big drop - Pete jumping

Janelle jumping

Walking on water...

The water shoes were a good investment for the hike as you're climbing and swimming quite a lot, as well as ensuring you've got a waterproof bag for any valuables. A big pack wasn't needed as the hike is relatively short and was cool with lots of shade (in fact you even get a little cold, Pete claimed he saw me shiver but I denied it as Canadians don't get cold until -20degC at least!). We all made it down safely to have a picnic at the bottom and tell stories about each section of the hike. Snake Gorge easily lived up to its reputation and was something we'll remember for a long time.