Imagine driving out of Jos and finding yourself surrounded by enormous rocks scattered across green hillsides. Some sit on top of one another, some rise out of the ground like giant walls, while others appear to balance in positions that make you wonder how they got there in the first place. It is quite a sight, and one that makes Shere Hills difficult to mistake for anywhere else.

Located east of Jos in Plateau State, Shere Hills is known for its rugged landscape, granite formations and elevated viewpoints. It is not one neat mountain with a clearly defined peak. Rather, it is a collection of hills, ridges and rocky outcrops spread across the highlands. For anyone used to the flatter landscapes found in many parts of Nigeria, the scenery can be quite a surprise.

The hills are also part of what makes Jos so distinctive. Sitting on the Jos Plateau, the city enjoys an elevation and climate that differ from those of many Nigerian urban centres. Shere Hills takes that landscape a step further, offering a closer look at the rocks and high ground that give the area its character.

A closer look at the rocks

One of the first things visitors notice about Shere Hills is the sheer size of its rocks. They are not small stones scattered along a walking trail. These are enormous granite formations, some with rounded surfaces and others with rugged edges that have been exposed to the elements for millions of years.

Their appearance has a geological explanation. The Jos Plateau has a complicated history involving ancient basement rocks, younger granite intrusions, and volcanic activity. Over time, weathering and erosion gradually wore away surrounding material, exposing large sections of granite and helping create the unusual formations seen across the hills.

Among the features associated with Shere Hills are the famous Gog and Magog formations. Their names alone make them interesting landmarks, but it is their striking appearance that gives visitors a reason to seek them out. They are often featured in descriptions and photographs of the hills, alongside the rocky ridges and open views that stretch across the plateau.

Shere Hills rises to a considerable height, with Plateau State government documents citing approximately 1,829 metres above sea level. At that elevation, the landscape offers a different perspective of the surrounding countryside. The rocks, grass-covered slopes and distant settlements come together in a way that makes the hills particularly attractive to photographers and anyone who enjoys exploring natural scenery.

What makes a visit interesting?

Shere Hills is not the kind of destination where you simply arrive, take one photograph and leave. Much of its appeal lies in exploring the terrain. Visitors interested in hiking and mountaineering can make their way across the rocky slopes, while those who prefer a slower visit can enjoy the views and take in the unusual formations.

The climb itself is part of the experience. The ground can be uneven, and some sections are steep, so visitors need comfortable footwear and should avoid treating the hills like an ordinary walking path. Going with someone familiar with the area is also advisable, particularly for those attempting more challenging routes.

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There is room for other outdoor activities too. Shere Hills has been associated with picnicking, camping, and sightseeing, although visitors should confirm current arrangements before planning an overnight stay. Its open landscape and impressive rock formations also make it a rewarding place for photography.

The hills have an interesting history beyond tourism. They hosted the first All-African Scouts Jamboree in 1976, according to research on the ecotourism potential of Plateau State. The location was well suited to an event that brought people together for outdoor activities, exploration, and adventure.

The surrounding area is also home to communities and farmland. The Afizere people are associated with Shere and nearby settlements, making the hills part of a lived landscape rather than an isolated attraction waiting for tourists.

A different side of Plateau State

Shere Hills is one of several natural attractions that make Plateau State worth exploring. Riyom Rock, Wase Rock and Assop Falls are other recognisable landmarks, each offering a different experience of the state’s scenery. But Shere Hills has a character of its own, particularly because of the scale and arrangement of its granite formations.

The weather is another part of the experience. Jos is known for its relatively cool conditions, and the elevated landscape around Shere Hills contributes to this. Harmattan months can be particularly cold, so visitors should carry something warm. Anyone planning to hike should also take drinking water, wear shoes with a good grip, and check the weather before setting out, as rain can make rocky paths slippery.

There is, however, a reason to think about the future of this landscape. Concerns have been raised about quarrying and possible environmental damage around some of the rock formations, including Gog and Magog. These features are not easily replaced. Their value lies not only in the photographs they provide but also in the geological history they preserve and the natural beauty they bring to the area.

For all its impressive scenery, Shere Hills does not need much introduction once you see it. The enormous rocks, the climb, and the views do most of the talking. It is a reminder that Nigeria’s landscape is far more varied than many people imagine, and that one of its most unusual natural attractions is waiting just outside Jos.

Meiza Nigeria