The Zohar Stream hiking trail starts in Neve Zohar; an approximately 40-kilometre section of the Israel National Trail for Bicycles also runs between Masada and Neve Zohar. This gives you a choice of a hike with a loop and an additional option, or a cycling route with a stated technical and physical difficulty level. The routes differ not only in length, but also in their intended users and the guidance for planning.
Hiking the Zohar Stream Trail
The trail runs through a narrow gorge carved into limestone and passes a dry, six-metre-high waterfall. The loop is two kilometres long. An additional out-and-back route to Zohar Citadel covers 1.5 kilometres. You can choose whether to walk the loop alone or include the route to the citadel in your plans.
The hiking trail is suitable for hiking enthusiasts and families. It is not suitable for hiking on rainy days. Check local conditions before setting out, and take the rain advisory into account when planning.
Cycling between Masada and Neve Zohar
The section of the Israel National Trail for Bicycles between Masada and Neve Zohar is approximately 40 kilometres long. Its technical and physical difficulty is rated from moderate to challenging; the route is suitable for experienced cyclists. Check current route conditions before cycling.
Which route suits your plans?
On the Zohar Stream hiking trail, you can choose between the loop and the additional route to Zohar Citadel; for the cycling section, the approximately 40-kilometre distance and its suitability for experienced riders are important factors. The weather advisories also differ: the hiking trail is explicitly not suitable for hiking on rainy days. For the cycling route, check current conditions before setting out. These differences can help you weigh the activity, route length and difficulty level for your stay.
In the wider Southern District destination
In the wider Southern District destination, Masada is a symbol of the ancient Kingdom of Israel, its violent destruction and the last resistance of Jewish patriots against the Roman army in 73 AD. Remains of Herod’s palaces and well-preserved Roman siege works can be found there; they are among the most complete of their kind in the Roman world. Registering in advance through the visit coordination system secures a place in Masada National Park for your selected visit date. Check registration for your preferred date before planning.
The Ein Gedi Nature Reserve in the Southern District offers a different landscape. It includes Israel’s largest oasis, with springs and waterfalls, ibex and hyraxes, as well as flowing streams. A hiking trail along Nahal Arugot, which flows year-round, leads to a hidden waterfall and pools in the upper reaches. Route conditions may change after flooding; check them before hiking.
In the Negev Highlands lies Avdat National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site along the route of the ancient Incense Route. The Southern District is also home to the visitor centre at the Ramon Crater, which combines the life story of Israel’s first astronaut, Lieutenant Colonel Ilan Ramon, with an introduction to the world’s largest crater and its unique natural phenomena.
Discover more destinations: Bruchim Qela' Alon, Yehud-Monosson, Ein Al-Asad, Giv'at Ze'ev, Shtula, Gevulot, Nazaret, Kfar Ruppin.
Back to the wider travel guide: Israel.
