Best Hiking Trails Around the World in Jerusalem, Israel
1. Jerusalem Forest Trail
A popular urban trail offering diverse landscapes within city limits, perfect for a quick escape.
- City Escape: Uniquely located trail inside Jerusalem city limits.
- Diverse Landscapes: Variety of terrains, including forests and open fields.
- Accessibility: Easy access to public transportation.
2. Baq'ah Nature Reserve Trail
An off-the-beaten-path trail with a rich habitat of flora and fauna.
- Off-the-Beaten-Path: Less crowded than other popular trails.
- Nature Preservation: Protected habitat for various plant and animal species.
- Photography Opportunities: Abundant opportunities to capture wildlife photos.
3. Mamilla Ridge Trail
A historic trail providing panoramic views of Jerusalem and the surrounding mountains.
- Historic Significance: Follows an ancient route with historical importance.
- Viewpoints: Offers breathtaking vistas of the city and mountains.
- Moderate Difficulty: A challenging yet rewarding hike for experienced trekkers.
4. Emek HaShalom Trail
A long-distance trail passing through various ecosystems and archaeological sites.
- Long-Distance Hiking: Covers a considerable length, offering an extended hike.
- Archeology Lovers: Passes by multiple historical and archaeological sites.
- Ecosystem Diversity: Transverses diverse ecosystems such as forests, valleys, and hills.
5. Herodion National Park Trail
A challenging trail that leads to the ruins of Herod's Palace with stunning views.
- Archaeological Site: Reaches the ancient fortress and palace built by King Herod.
- Challenging Hike: A strenuous hike for experienced trekkers with steep inclines.
- Panoramic Views: Offers magnificent views of the Judean Desert and Jerusalem.
6. Susiya Trail
A remote trail showcasing the rich Bedouin culture and stunning desert landscapes.
- Remote Location: Located in a secluded area, far from city crowds.
- Bedouin Culture: Offers insight into the traditional Bedouin way of life.
- Desert Landscapes: Showcases breathtaking desert vistas and rock formations.
7. Mount Scopus Trail
A peaceful trail offering a unique perspective of the Old City of Jerusalem.
- Peaceful Ambiance: An idyllic and serene hiking experience.
- Old City Views: Provides breathtaking views of the Old City walls and Dome of the Rock.
- Historical Significance: Hikes through a historical area with ancient sites along the way.
8. Mount of Olives Trail
A spiritual trail connecting significant Christian and Jewish sites.
- Religious Significance: Connects important religious sites for Christians and Jews.
- Scenic Beauty: Boasts stunning vistas of the Old City and surrounding mountains.
- Historical Importance: Follows a path used by Jesus and his disciples during the Bible.
9. Nahal Refaim Trail
A family-friendly trail with stunning views of the Judean Mountains.
- Family Friendly: An easy and accessible hike suitable for all ages.
- Judean Mountain Views: Offers awe-inspiring vistas of the Judean Mountains.
- Historical Sites: Passes by ancient water cisterns and an Iron Age fortress.
10. Wadi Qelt Trail
A scenic trail leading to the breathtaking monastery of St. George.
- Scenic Beauty: Features beautiful canyons and desert landscapes.
- Monastery Visit: Ends at the stunning St. George's Monastery.
- Historical Significance: Follows an ancient path used by monks and pilgrims.
11. Har Yarok Trail
A challenging trail leading to the highest peak in Jerusalem.
- Challenging Hike: A demanding hike for experienced trekkers.
- Panoramic Views: Offers breathtaking views of the entire Jerusalem landscape.
- Nature Lovers: Encompasses diverse ecosystems such as forests, cliffs, and valleys.
12. Jerusalem's City of David Trail
A historical trail exploring the ancient city of Jerusalem.
- Historical Significance: Hikes through some of the oldest parts of Jerusalem.
- Archeology Lovers: Passes by numerous archaeological sites and excavations.
- City Exploration: Provides a deep understanding of the city's history.
13. Gilo Forest Trail
A woodland trail with scenic views of the surrounding hills and Jerusalem.
- Woodland Experience: Features a beautiful forested area.
- Scenic Beauty: Boasts stunning vistas of the Jerusalem landscape.
- Moderate Difficulty: Offers a moderate hike for intermediate trekkers.
14. Jezreel Valley Trail
A long-distance trail connecting the historic regions of Jezreel and the Jordan River.
- Long-Distance Hiking: Covers a considerable length, offering an extended hike.
- Historical Significance: Follows the ancient route of the Jezreel Valley and the Jordan River.
- Diverse Landscapes: Transverses diverse ecosystems such as forests, valleys, and farmlands.
15. Masada Snake Path
A challenging hike up to the iconic Masada fortress with breathtaking views.
- Challenging Hike: A steep and demanding hike for experienced trekkers.
- Historical Significance: Reaches the iconic Masada fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Panoramic Views: Offers breathtaking vistas of the Dead Sea and surrounding mountains.