When I first moved to Israel, I had no idea that it was a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. To me, the idea of any “best hikes in Israel” seemed like a non-sequitur. I knew that Israel was full of modern cities and religious sites, but I knew nothing about its great outdoors.
Over the years, I’ve learned that beyond the confines of the city, past the humdrum views of the highway, fabulous footpaths are hidden away in Israel’s outdoor spaces. Israel has forests, mountains, valleys, hills, deserts, and a gorgeous coastline. Most of these natural areas are protected and cared for by the Parks Authority. An organized network of well-marked pathways allows hikers to experience the natural beauty contained within.
In Israel, there are different trails for summer, winter, and spring. There are paths suitable for casual walkers and hikes for serious outdoorsman. With so many hiking trails available, it can be hard for first time visitors to choose.
If you love nature and want to see the best that Israel has to offer, where should you spend your time hiking? We’re here to help! Here are the 5 absolute best hikes in Israel for true nature lovers:
Nahal Tavor: Best Hike in Israel for Wintertime
I remember the first time I hiked Tavor Stream (called Nahal Tavor in Hebrew). I was completely blown away by the scenery. Lush green hills were covered in a wonderful array of colorful wildflowers. Once we hiked down into the valley, we were greeted by a cheery stream. There, we proceeded to hike along, crossing back and forth until we reached the spectacular basalt waterfall where we stopped to take it all in.
Afterwards, we enjoyed the magnificent beauty of thousands of flowering purple lupines just beginning to grow in the valley. I can honestly say that I’d never imagined that I would see scenery like that in Israel.
Later, I learned all about the biblical importance of Nahal Tavor, and about the battle of Deborah and Barak with Sisera that took place right at that spot.
I try to re-visit Nahal Tavor every winter in February or March. This is most definitely the best hike in Israel for wintertime (aka: flower season in Israel).
Read the full Nahal Tavor post with maps right here.
Nahal Mishmar: Best Hike in Israel for Peace and Quiet
There are lots of things to love about nature. Some hikers are in it for the beauty while others love the physical exertion of climbing over rough terrain. But there are some nature lovers who are just looking for some peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Nahal Mishmar is the best hike in Israel for those who treasure serenity. This desert trek near the Dead Sea takes visitors through a beautiful dry stream bed, over smooth rock shaped by gushing rainwater. On a trip through this desert canyon, you’ll marvel at the wonders of nature, from swooping desert birds to friendly rock hyraxes who live there.
This hike is also a bit of a challenge – I love falling into the rhythm of climbing up over stone cliffs through Mishmar while enjoying the supreme peacefulness of the setting.
Read the full Nahal Mishmar post with maps right here.
Nahal Arugot: Best Hike in Israel for a Warm Day
One thing about Israel: It can get hot here sometimes! And if you happen to be hanging out in the Dead Sea area, you’ll find that heat is almost always in the forecast.
But we hikers know that hot days mean one thing: it’s time for a water hike! And Nahal Arugot, which is part of the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve near the Dead Sea, is one of the most epic water hikes in Israel.
This beautiful desert oasis comes alive with water pouring fresh from a spring. As you splash along through the stream, you’ll likely encounter friendly ibex, cute crabs, and other oasis wildlife. Make sure to stop at the natural waterslides, where you can speed down a rock chute into a deep pool below.
The Hidden Falls at Nahal Arugot are truly spectacular. And if you make it all the way to the end of the trail, you’ll get to enjoy aquamarine pools and peek at the source of the spring.
Read the full Nahal Arugot post with maps right here.
Yam el Yam: Best Hike in Israel for a Multi-Day Adventure
What’s the best way to take a deep dive into Israel’s great outdoors? Go on a multi-day thru-hike! Yam el Yam, or Sea to Sea in English, is the best hike for anyone who really wants to immerse themselves in Israel’s Nature.
The trail takes hikers from the Mediterranean Sea (Israel’s coast) all the way to the Sea of Galilee (the lowest freshwater lake in the world). Along the way, you’ll get to walk the length of the spectacular Kziv stream, climb Mount Meron, and cross through Amud Stream with its cool pools and incredible rock formations.
I’ll never forget our own three-day Sea to Sea adventure – it was the most amazing hike I’ve ever been on in Israel. I loved the rugged, varied terrain, the diverse nature, and camping out under the stars at night.
I recommend that you set aside four days to hike Yam el Yam. That way, you’ll get to truly enjoy the spectacular scenery and immerse yourself in the best nature that Israel has to offer.
Read all of the Yam el Yam posts with maps or get your Yam el Yam eBook right here.
Mount Tzror: Best Hike in Israel for Sunrise
If you’ve thought about doing a sunrise hike in Israel, you’ve probably considered climbing up the Masada Snake path. And that is a really cool trail. But if you’d like to get a bit further off the beaten path, you should hike Mount Tzror, my personal vote for best hike in Israel for sunrise.
Mount Tzror is a tabletop mountain located near Sde Boker. At about 10 kilometers with a significant ascent, the trail is mildly challenging. But every step is worth it. There’s simply nothing like watching the sun rise over the magnificent flat top of Mount Tzror.
Make sure to bring along breakfast and a thermos full of coffee. Then you can have a picnic on the edge of the mountain just after dawn.
Read the full post about Mount Tzror with maps right here.
Get Out There
I hope you enjoyed this list of the absolute best hikes in Israel. Of course, there are endless hiking options all over the country. The most important thing is to leave the city for a day (or two or three) and spend some time exploring nature.
Use these 5 trails to add some nature time to your Israel itinerary. These hikes will dazzle you with their unparalleled beauty and expose you to scenery unique to Israel. You’ll want to return to hike in the Holy Land again and again.
Looking for more great hiking trails in the Holy Land? Use our Map Feature or our Advanced Hike Search feature to find hikes that are right for you!
FAQ
March and April are generally considered to be the most beautiful hiking months in Israel. But there are hikes that are well suited to each and every season! No matter when you visit the Holy Land, it’s worth it to head to the great outdoors.
Hiring a guide is a good way to get to know the land a little bit better. But you don’t need a guide to hike here! The trails are well marked and safe. Using our detailed posts, you can get all the information you need to have an incredible day hike in Israel
Use our multi part Hiking Basics guide to help you learn all about the terrain, the geography, the trail markings, what you need for a safe day hike, and more.
Absolutely. While you’re hiking, you may spot gazelle, ibex, vultures, rock hyraxes, and other small reptiles and mammals. Wild boars and porcupines can be seen occasionally too, but they like to stay hidden away!
Obviously! Browse through our site to find more great hikes to expand your hiking itinerary.
Tried these hikes? Do you have a suggestions for the best hike in Israel? Let’s hear about it in the comments!
The Kineret is the lowest freshwater lake in the world. Not quite the largest 🙂