Trident Canyon (Wadi Shāh - RAK) Descent

----------------Intro----------------

It's not too hot in Dubai! It's just too hot in the city. I did this hike/descent last Wednesday and the wadi was nice and cool with around 23-27 degrees, a cool shade most of the way, and a nice cold breeze coming through it from the bottom.

Starting at 6am, we can easily beat the heat and finish before it gets too hot!

----------------About the place----------------

Wadi Shāh in Ras Al Khaima, nicknamed Trident Canyon, is one of the many wadis that snakes down the Jabal Jais mountain. It is an amazing hike/descent that has 6 rope descents and 3 tricky scrambles. As far as canyons in the UAE/Oman are concerned, it is relatively beginner-friendly. Some rope skills are required but nothing too complicated.

---------------- Itinerary ----------------

Because of the heat, it is necessary to begin the hike at 6am at the latest.

• 04.00 a.m. -- departure from Dubai heading to Jabal Jais in RAK
• 05.30 a.m. -- arrival at the parking spot on Jabal Jais road
• 06.00 a.m. -- start of hike, we begin with an hour-long ascend along the road to the trailhead
• 07.00 a.m. -- hike up to the top of the wadi, we leave the road and hike for 20-30 minutes to the top of the canyon
• 07.30 a.m. -- descent start, once at the top, we begin our descent down the wadi, depending on the group size, this can take 2-5 hours
• 12.00 p.m. -- finish descent, we finish at the bottom of the wadi, leave the canyon and return to the road, this is the worst part, we begin the hike back up to the car (unless we have two cars, or we hitchhike like I did last time)
• 13.30 p.m. -- return to the car, we finish back at the cars and head home
• 14.20 p.m. -- lunch in RAS, I know a great restaurant with European cuisine, probably the best food (and beer if you drink) that you've had
• 16.00 p.m. -- return drive back to Dubai
• 18.00 p.m. -- arrival back in Dubai

---------------- Adventurer's Profile ----------------

If you're physically fit and can keep physically active at high temperatures for up to 8 hours. If you don't mind heights, love adventure and adrenaline. Have experience hiking on challenging terrain (big rocks, uneven terrain, rock scrambles) and have some basic rope work knowledge -- This is definitely for you!

If you tick all the above boxes but lack rope work (rappeling) experience, feel free to reach out as you may still be able to do this hike with help. As long as you don't mind heights.

---------------- Required Equipment----------------

Here is the equipment that you absolutely need:

1. A good set of socks and hiking boots (ideally ankle high for safety)
2. Breathable (not cotton) and comfortable sports clothing
3. Backpack with a hip strap that can carry 5-6 liters of water

Here is the technical equipment that you should have:

1. Harness (climbing, canyoneering, or caving) in good condition
2. Helmet (preferably climbing-specific, alternatively watersports)
3. Personal lanyard with locking carabiner
4. Descending device (figure 8, ATC, or similar) with a locking carabiner
5. Additional locking carabiner
6. Via Ferrata, rappel or belay gloves

If you lack any of the technical equipment required, I can provide an option to rent an entire set for dh150.00.

The set includes items 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. The standard price is 60 euros (approx. dhs210) but I have discounted rates that I can extend.

If you need any additional kit (backpack, gloves, etc.) I may be able to help as well. Please reach out.

---------------- Transfer Dubai to RAK and notes ----------------

I will be taking my truck from Dubai, departing at 4 am with a planned return after lunch. I can comfortably take 3 people with me.

I'm happy to pick you up and drop you off anywhere in Dubai in the morning and I will only ask for a share of the petrol (dh70 both ways). I can drop you off with the gear at the top and then hike up alone to meet you at the trailhead.

I'm taking my GoPro and DSLR camera. I will make videos and as many photos as we have time for which I'm happy to share with you after.

---------------- Disclaimer & COVID-19 ----------------

I am a professional, internationally licensed snowsports and action sports instructor and coach and an experienced adventurer (rock climbing, via ferrata, canyoneering) but I am not, nor do I claim to be, a professional mountain guide!

I am very familiar with this trail as I've done it in the past and I know the techniques for navigating it safely. I am happy to guide the group in the safest way I can but purely as a member, not as a guide.

More information will be provided via WhatsApp to those interested.