Message from the President

Dear Friends, Lebanese-Canadians, and Outdoor Enthusiasts, As President of the Canadian Friends of the Lebanon Mountain Trail (CFLMT), it is with immense pride that I welcome you to our community dedicated to promoting the extraordinary natural heritage that connects our two beloved countries. The Lebanon Mountain Trail (LMT) represents far more than just a 600-kilometer path winding through Lebanon's breathtaking mountains. It stands as a powerful symbol of environmental preservation, cultural heritage, and the resilience of 76 village communities along its route. The LMT began as an international development project aimed at empowering local communities by bringing responsible tourism to rural areas. Today, it continues to serve as a vital lifeline that strengthens connections between people and place. Our mission at CFLMT is clear and purposeful: to promote ecological and cultural conservation in Lebanon's mountains while fostering meaningful cultural exchange between Canada and Lebanon. Through our work, we aim to build bridges between Lebanese-Canadians and their ancestral homeland, creating opportunities for discovery, connection, and preservation of Lebanon's natural wonders. To our Lebanese diaspora members across Canada—whether you left Lebanon recently or trace your heritage back generations—the mountains of Lebanon remain an essential part of your identity. The cedar-covered slopes, ancient villages, and magnificent vistas represent a shared heritage that transcends distance and time. Through CFLMT, you can maintain this connection while contributing to the sustainability of these precious landscapes. To friends, family members, and outdoor enthusiasts of all backgrounds—we invite you to discover the magic of Lebanon through its mountain trails. By embracing our vision of environmental stewardship and cultural appreciation, you become part of a global community committed to preserving natural spaces for future generations. I encourage all of you to embrace an active, outdoor lifestyle here in Canada while nurturing dreams of one day walking the Lebanon Mountain Trail. Whether you join our local friendship hikes in partnership with Canadian trail systems, attend our cultural events, or simply follow our journey online, your participation strengthens our community and mission. By getting outdoors, appreciating nature, and living healthy lifestyles, we honor the spirit of the mountains that connect us. When you eventually visit Lebanon and walk its mountain paths, you'll experience firsthand the extraordinary beauty and cultural richness that has inspired Lebanese people worldwide for generations. Together, let us celebrate the mountains that unite us, protect the trails that guide us, and strengthen the bonds between Canada and Lebanon one step at a time. With warmth and gratitude, Pierre Azar President, Canadian Friends of the Lebanon Mountain Trail Dare the Experience !