Track 87: Serjbel waterfall - Eljehliyeh river

It was supposed to be an easy hike starting from Serjbel village in the Chouf, walking down to reach the waterfall, passing by the small village of Shmaarine till we reached again "Naher ElJehliyeh" after walking for 3 km.
Everything was going as planned till we reached the river. The water level was too high and it wasn't an option for us to walk back along the river to our starting point. I guess starting May it will be feasible and all you have to do is follow back the river till you reach Serjbel village again. Simply walk along the river and you will encounter several wooden bridges that you can use to pass the river.
All this isn't available during winter and early spring season because of the high level of water. Even the wooden bridges are not in place anymore. They will put them back in summer.
We had 2 options:
1- Go back from where we came
2- Cross the river and try to find a new trail
Without hesitation we took the 2nd option and we found a place where water is at its lowest (water reached our knees). Once on the other side, we walked along the river till we reached an old water mill. From there, the trail is covered with water and we had to find our way back. We decided to reach the main road "Damour - Deir Elamar" and for that we had to go a steep uphill. It was very challenging and demands lot of trail finding skills as the mountain is fully covered with thick vegetation, mainly pine and oak trees.
It was very demanding but once we reached the main road we had this amazing feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction.
After that we continued on the asphalt and closed the loop.
I love every thing about this hike, the place, the waterfall, the river and even the hard walk uphill.
I very recommend it if you are a good hiker. If not, wait till summer and follow the river back to Serjbel (Don't forget your swimming suits)
I would say moderate to hard hike (easy during summer)
Enjoy the place and keep it clean.
Cheers !!!