At the top of Kfarselwan village in Mount Lebanon, Mount Kneiseh transformed into a breathtaking winter wonderland after a powerful snowstorm covered the landscape with over one meter of snow. To witness this stunning natural transformation, SPNL’s Doroub Al Hima Manager, Hamada Malaeb, led a hiking expedition through the icy slopes, unveiling the raw beauty of Lebanon’s high-altitude wilderness.
The hike was more than just a scenic adventure; it was an exploration of the mountain’s rich biodiversity, its endemic species, and the importance of conserving this fragile ecosystem.
A Mountain Transformed by Ice and Snow
Following the storm, Mount Kneiseh was completely blanketed in thick layers of snow, creating a surreal and almost otherworldly landscape. Icicles hung from rock formations, waterfalls froze mid-flow, and natural springs turned into shimmering ice pools, reflecting the winter sunlight like hidden gems in the mountains.
🌨️ The post-storm scenery included:
✅ Glacial waterfalls and frozen streams forming intricate ice sculptures
✅ Snow-covered rock formations, reshaping the landscape with surreal beauty
✅ Crystal-clear frozen pools and springs, highlighting the purity of Lebanon’s mountain waters
✅ Pristine white trails, untouched except for the footprints of wildlife and hikers
The Hidden Ecological Treasures of Mount Kneiseh
Despite the harsh winter conditions, Mount Kneiseh remains a crucial biodiversity hotspot. The mountain is home to rare and endemic plant species, including Hieracium kneissaeum, a species found nowhere else in the world. This plant’s survival in such extreme conditions underscores the ecological uniqueness of the region.
🌿 Why Mount Kneiseh is an ecological treasure:
📌 Endemic species: Home to rare plants like Hieracium kneissaeum
📌 Vital water source: Snowmelt feeds essential springs and rivers
📌 Wildlife habitat: Provides refuge for mountain species, even in winter
📌 Climate regulation: Plays a crucial role in maintaining Lebanon’s environmental balance
A Hike Through Ice and Snow
Guided by Hamada Malaeb, the hikers traversed the snow-covered trails, where frozen waterfalls and ice-carved stones created a breathtaking natural gallery. The deep snow made the journey both challenging and rewarding, offering a rare glimpse into Mount Kneiseh’s winter resilience.
Malaeb shared insights on:
📌 How endemic species like Hieracium kneissaeum survive extreme winter conditions
📌 The importance of sustainable ecotourism in fragile high-altitude ecosystems
📌 SPNL’s conservation efforts in Mount Kneiseh and the broader Hima network
A Call for Conservation
This post-storm hike was a reminder of the delicate balance of nature and the need to protect Lebanon’s mountainous ecosystems. Mount Kneiseh’s biodiversity, water sources, and endemic species are all at risk due to climate change, habitat destruction, and human impact.
Through sustainable ecotourism and conservation efforts, SPNL aims to ensure that Lebanon’s natural heritage is preserved for generations to come.
As the sun set over the snow-covered peaks, hikers descended with a deep appreciation for the mountain’s beauty and resilience. The journey was more than just an adventure—it was an inspiration to protect and cherish Lebanon’s wild landscapes.
💚 Join SPNL in preserving Lebanon’s natural wonders—one hike at a time! ❄️🏔️
