The western flank of the High Atlas, directly north of Taroudant, offers trekking that is less crowded and arguably more culturally interesting than the heavily-travelled Toubkal circuit. Routes from the Souss side approach through argan and thuja forest, passing through Tachelhit-speaking Berber villages before reaching the higher grasslands and rocky cols.
The approach from Taroudant towards Aoulouz gives access to the Tisgui Plateau and connects to longer circuits heading north towards Ouirgane and Amizmiz. Most of the gîtes on these routes are small and family-run. It's worth hiring a local guide in Taroudant — not just for navigation but for the introductions they provide in villages. Several trekking agencies in town offer guided circuits of two to seven days.