Frequently Asked Questions for the guide “Fifty Most Beautiful Routes in Israeli Desert” with expert tips and recommendations for long-distance routes in the Judean Desert, the Arava, and the Negev. Frequently Asked Questions 50 Most Beautiful Desert Routes in Israel This page gathers frequently asked questions about “50 Most Beautiful Desert Routes in Israel” – a guide to long-distance routes and trail running in the Judean Desert, the Negev Highlands, and the Arava region in southern Israel. Here you will find information about navigation, water planning, equipment, logistics, and safety in desert terrain. What is “50 Most Beautiful Desert Routes in Israel”? It is an open guide to long-distance desert routes in southern Israel: the Judean Desert, the Negev Highlands, and the Arava. The routes are based on many years of experience from a wide group of field professionals and trail runners who tested, reviewed, and recommended long routes across Israel’s desert regions. The guide focuses on: Long and continuous movement A logical and aesthetic line in the terrain Connecting landscapes and regions (not a single point of interest) Who is this guide for? Trail runners with prior navigation experience and previous desert routes Experienced hikers with navigation skills Individuals capable of full 6+ hour movement days at a fast pace Independent movement with minimal gear This guide is not intended for beginners without prior desert experience. It is not designed for family hikes. Are the routes suitable only for trail running or also for hiking? Both. The routes are suitable for trail running and for fast hiking (fast trekking), depending on fitness level. When should a route start? The routes require starting at dawn or early in the morning in order to maximize available daylight. Movement after dark becomes significantly slower and may be impossible in technical terrain. Are the routes marked? Some routes follow officially marked trails, while others follow clear but unofficial paths. All routes have been field-tested and include a GPX file for navigation. Please note that desert terrain changes seasonally, and trails may shift after flash floods. Studying the route before departure is essential. What does each route page include? Each route includes: Distance (km) Total elevation gain (meters) Estimated fast hiking time (see time management section) Terrain description Advantages and disadvantages Start and exit points with Waze navigation for private vehicle access Route variations – some can be taken spontaneously during the route, others require advance planning Downloadable GPX file How long does a route take? Most routes range between 4–8 hours of movement, depending on pace. Typical distances are 20–40 km. The “fast hiking time” shown on the website and on Komoot is a rough estimate. In reality, each person moves at a different pace, and technical desert terrain requires more time. Please note: The estimated time does not include preparation time, breaks, photography stops, or navigation errors. The estimate assumes continuous fast hiking, which is rarely realistic. Routes that include sand, canyons, steep ascents, and varied terrain will require additional time. It is recommended to add a 20–30% safety margin to all time estimates. Keep in mind: the main desert running season is winter, when days are short and daylight is limited. Time management principle: start early, move with a sense of urgency, and finish early. How much water is required? In most cases, 1–3 liters of water should be carried, depending on season and pace. As a rule of thumb: Longer routes, hot days, and low-elevation areas require more water. Shorter routes, cold days, and higher elevations require less. Some routes allow pre-placement (water caching). Do not rely on natural water sources. What equipment is required? Planning to carry a 10 kg backpack? Forget it. The routes presented here require minimal water and essential gear only, in a lightweight style. Each route requires adapting gear according to route length and weather conditions, but in principle, these routes are meant to be completed in a light and fast style. Otherwise: Running becomes unrealistic Completion time doubles Risk increases (especially when reaching darkness) Overall experience deteriorates Suggested equipment list: 5–10 liter running vest Water (0.5–3 liters depending on season, route, and individual) Lightweight windbreaker jacket Navigation and communication device (mobile phone) Trail running shoes (road shoes are problematic in desert terrain) Sunglasses Sun hat Energy bars or gels Headlamp Painkillers In winter – down jacket, neck gaiter, and gloves (especially in case of darkness). In the Negev Highlands, a winter hat may also be necessary. Lightweight trekking poles A few squares of toilet paper Satellite emergency device recommended (Garmin InReach) Is complicated logistics required? No. Most routes are circular or connected to a road or settlement. Linear routes may require a short vehicle shuttle or public transportation access. Hitchhiking can be considered when access to a main road exists. Routes that require 4x4 vehicle access to the start or finish were excluded. When is the recommended season for desert routes? Generally, October to April. Summer is not suitable for long desert routes. Even during winter, weather forecasts must be checked, and routes through riverbeds (wadis) should be avoided when there is a risk of flash floods. The Judean Desert and Arava are typically more suitable during winter, while the Negev Highlands are often better during transitional seasons (autumn and spring). Are all starting and exit points accessible by private car? Yes. Which maps should be used for navigation and route study? Maps: https://www.komoot.com/ https://mapeak.com/ The website uses Komoot and Mapeak for route display. Komoot is easier to use when downloading the mobile app or using it on a PC. It is recommended to combine route planning with: Amud Anan (amudanan.co.il ) Israel Hiking Map (israelhiking.osm.org.il ) Although cellular coverage in Israel is generally good, many desert areas have no reception. It is strongly recommended to: Study the route in advance Download offline maps in Komoot or another navigation app Download the GPX file to your phone Studying the route and downloading navigation files in advance will reduce navigation errors and daylight loss. Most routes follow marked trails (except specific sections clearly noted otherwise). Trails in Israel are generally well-marked. Amud Anan provides detailed trail markings and color codes. Where can weather forecasts and additional information be found? Weather forecast: www.meteoblue.com Wind forecast: www.windy.com Rain radar: Flowx Emergency numbers: https://www.b144.co.il/EmergencyNo.aspx Amud Anan map: https://amudanan.co.il/ Flash flood warnings: Israel Meteorological Service (ims.gov.il ) Who are the authors of 50 Most Beautiful Desert Routes in Israel? The guide was written and edited by Eliya Zemmour – a mountain athlete and trail runner who has spent years planning and completing long desert routes – in collaboration with Prof. Sharon Shnitman, Head of the Physical Activity and Health Program at the University of Haifa. In addition, experienced field professionals and trail runners tested the routes, proposed variations, and provided professional feedback. Each route was field-tested before publication. What safety precautions should be taken before starting a long desert route? Cellular reception and communication Most desert areas have no cellular reception, especially in canyons and remote terrain. Do not rely on online navigation only. Download offline maps and GPX files before departure. Study the route and possible exit points in advance. Inform a trusted person about your planned route and expected return time. Emergency numbers in Israel: Police: 100 Ambulance (MDA): 101 Fire Department: 102 General emergency number: 112 Phone battery management Your phone is both a navigation and communication device – manage it carefully: Fully charge before departure Use airplane mode when reception is not required Reduce screen brightness Close background applications Avoid navigating with the screen constantly on Battery loss in technical terrain near darkness is a real risk. Satellite device (Garmin InReach or similar) For long and remote routes, carrying a satellite device is recommended: Allows sending SOS from any location Allows messaging without cellular coverage Adds a significant safety layer Not mandatory – but strongly recommended for deep desert routes. Flash flood risk Flash floods are a major desert hazard. Even if there is no visible rain, rainfall in distant areas can cause flooding in the canyon you are in. Do not enter riverbeds during flood warnings. Check official meteorological warnings before departure. Narrow canyons are especially vulnerable. If in doubt – do not enter. Time and daylight management Start early. Add a 20–30% safety margin to time estimates. Carry a headlamp even if planning to finish in daylight. Avoid reaching technical sections near darkness. Informing someone It is recommended to inform a trusted person with: Planned route Start and finish locations Expected return time If caught after dark If caught by darkness, it is preferable to continue carefully toward the exit using a headlamp. Emergency jacket and pants may be useful, especially in the Negev Highlands. Caffeine tablets and painkillers are recommended to carry. In case of ankle sprain or other incidents, they may make a significant difference. Disclaimer This is a basic guide to desert trail running routes that outlines routes in general terms only. Users must be autonomous in the field and understand what desert movement requires (desert travel is a unique niche with specific demands). If you do not know how to assess weather conditions relative to your abilities – you should not be there. If you lack the knowledge and experience to navigate independently in remote and technical terrain – this website was not written for you. Users must understand terrain limitations, weather risks, and their own physical limits under load. If this has not been clear until now – this website removes itself from any responsibility whatsoever. Do your homework before starting any route and take full responsibility for your actions. If you believe the routes are within your capability – go explore. Go to the desert. I want to lead groups in the desert. Is there a professional certification program? Yes. Israel offers a professional certification program for guiding long-distance desert routes through the School of Tourism at the University of Haifa. The authors of this guide, Eliya Zemmour and Sharon Sznitman, are instructors in the program. The course combines practical field training with academic instruction in navigation, route planning, safety, risk management, ultralight travel, and leading groups on long-distance desert hikes. It is designed for those who want to guide desert trips professionally. For more information about the Certified Desert Guide program and registration, visit the University of Haifa School of Tourism website .

Selected Desert Running in Israel Barak, Vardit and Kippa Two wild canyons and a viewpoint overlooking the Ashosh Valley deep in the Arava Type: Round Trip Distance: 30.3km Ascent: 660m Descent: 660m Fast-Trekking Duration: 6-7 h Start: Barak Canyon trailhead End: Barak Canyon trailhead GPX File Israel Hiking Map Character : A route deep in the Central Arava, passing through two canyons with technical terrain and a light, open section toward Har Kipa. Advantages: A visit to two of the most beautiful canyons in the Arava. A route with several variations. Disadvantages: Reaching the Barak Canyon trailhead by private car is slightly challenging. Note: The run along the Hidud cliffs and the ascent onto them is on an unmarked trail. Variation 1: The route can be shortened by 10 km if you skip the run to Mount Kippa. See route here . Variation 2: The route shown here follows the green trail without entering the pools in Barak Stream. You can choose to enter them via the blue trail, but note that if the pools are full of water, swimming is unavoidable.

Selected Desert Running in Israel Mamashit and Mount Tzayad Through the remains of a Nabataean city and the Yeruham Crater Escarpments Nature Reserve Type: Round Trip Distance: 32.2km Ascent: 550m Descent: 550m Fast-Trekking Duration: 6-7 h Start: Colored Sands parking area End: Colored Sands parking area GPX File Israel Hiking Map Character : A route featuring a fast and flowing section along Nahal Mamshit to Mamshit National Park, followed by an unmarked and wild return segment, partially panoramic, through the Makhtesh HaGadol Ridge Reserve. Advantages: The section from Mount Tzayad, along the northern rim of Yeruham Crater, to the end of the route is wild and unmarked. Disadvantages: No access by public transportation. Interest Point: Water refill available at Mamshit National Park.

A guidebook to long routes and trail running in the Judean, Negev, and Arava deserts​ 50 Most Beautiful Trails in the Israeli Desert Guide to Long Routes and Trail Running in the Judean, Negev and Arava Deserts Judea Negev Arava XC Eilat Mountains ⟷28.2km ↗933m ,One Way או ⟷42km ↗1700m ,One Way Mount Ayt and Kasui Dune ⟷32.4km ↗550m ,Round Trip Yotvata to Shaharut ⟷21.7km ↗680m ,Round Trip Barak and Vardit ⟷30.3km ↗660m ,Round Trip או ⟷20.3km ↗430m ,Round Trip Mount Tzfahot and Gishron Cliffs ⟷26.2km ↗1010m ,Round Trip או ⟷13.2km ↗800m ,One Way Timna Sightseeing ⟷25.4km ↗540m ,Round Trip Or ⟷15.6km ↗390m ,Round Trip Timna Circle ⟷29.3km ↗970m ,Round Trip Or ⟷27.5km ↗800m ,Round Trip Timna Valley Marathon ⟷42.4km ↗1120m ,One Way Or ⟷30.9km ↗880m ,One Way Mount Yotveta and Mount Argaman ⟷30.1km ↗810m ,Round Trip Or ⟷28.2km ↗750m ,Round Trip Yahel ⟷24.6km ↗340m ,Round Trip Or ⟷18.9km ↗270m ,Round Trip Bat Sheva and Mount Shlomo ⟷20.2km ↗720m ,Round Trip Or ⟷15.9km ↗580m ,Round Trip Tzafit and Paras ⟷16.8km ↗346m ,Round trip Or ⟷34.6km ↗930m ,Round Trip The Red Canyon and Rehem ⟷24.7km ↗980m ,Round Trip או ⟷13km ↗710m ,One Way Sapir ⟷24.8km ↗800m ,Round Trip

Selected Desert Running in Israel Mount Ardon to Mitzpe Ramon Mahmal Ascent and a Long Panoramic Line Above Ramon Crater Type: One Way Distance: 34.2km Ascent: 880m Descent: 470m Fast-Trekking Duration: 7-8h Start: Be'erot Campground (Accessible with a private car) End: Mitzpe Ramon by the gas station GPX File Israel Hiking Map Character : A high-volume route climbing from the depths of Ramon Crater to Mitzpe Ramon. The course includes two major ascents — Ma’ale Ardon and Ma’ale Makhmal — followed by a flowing panoramic line, partly on bike singletracks and partly on jeep roads, all the way to Mitzpe Ramon. Advantages : Aside from Ma’ale Ardon, the route is flowing and runnable with no technical sections. Predominantly panoramic throughout. Disadvantages : No water sources. Hitchhiking back to Be’erot Campground is difficult, requiring vehicle shuttling. No public transportation access. Variation : The route can be made easier by running it in the opposite direction (less cumulative ascent). Point of Interest : Be’erot Campground is an excellent base point for routes in the eastern Ramon Crater.

Eliya Zemmour Map

Selected Desert Running in Israel Yeruham Crater Circle A Big Panoramic and Elegant Circle around a Breathtaking Phenomenon Type: Round Trip Distance: 40.1km Ascent: 1190 m Descent: 1190 m Fast-Trekking Duration: 8-9h Start: Colored Sands Nightcamp, Yeruham Crater End: Colored Sands Nightcamp, Yeruham Crater GPX File Israel Hiking Map Character : A long route encircling Makhtesh Yeruham along the crater rim, on terrain comfortable for running. The southern section follows the officially marked Israel National Trail. The northern section is not officially marked, but the path is clear. Highly recommended. Advantages : Flowing, runnable terrain with no technical sections. Panoramic for most of the way. Disadvantages : Significant cumulative descent. No access by public transportation. Pro Tip : Although there is no water source along the route, it is easy and recommended to cache water at the junction with Road 225, which you will pass anyway on the way to the start point. Note : It may not feel intuitive, but the route includes substantial cumulative elevation gain. A big day. Variation 1 : A shortened point-to-point option of 28 km can be planned, finishing at Road 225 which crosses the crater. See route here . Variation 2 : Running the route in the opposite direction feels like an entirely new course.

A guidebook to long routes and trail running in the Judean, Negev, and Arava deserts​ 50 Most Beautiful Trails in the Israeli Desert Guide to Long Routes and Trail Running in the Judean, Negev and Arava Deserts Judea Negev Arava Akrabim Crown ⟷29.5km ↗1040m ,Round Trip Or ⟷18.3km ↗570m ,Round Trip Yeruham Crater Circle ⟷40.3km ↗1190m ,Round Trip Or ⟷28.5km ↗1020m ,One Way Mount Ardon to Mitzpe Ramon ⟷34.2km ↗880m ,One Way Ramon Spaghetti Marathon ⟷42.3km ↗1110m ,Round trip Or ⟷33.1km ↗1000m ,Round Trip Hod Akev and Mount Tzror ⟷21.8km ↗560m ,Round trip Or ⟷34.6km ↗800m ,Round Trip Crater to Crater ⟷19.5km ↗640m ,One Way Or ⟷37.7km ↗1250m ,One Way XC Ramon - Sapir ⟷36km ↗690m ,One Way Or ⟷23km ↗450m ,Round Trip Mount Karbolet and Tzin ⟷36.4km ↗1030m ,One Way Or ⟷18km ↗660m ,Round Trip Nahal Shualim and Hatira Massif ⟷38.3km ↗610m ,One Way Or ⟷27.8km ↗450m ,One Way Mount Ramon and Mount Ido ⟷19.6km ↗500m ,Round Trip Or ⟷13.6km ↗390m ,Round trip Mamashit and Mount Tzayad ⟷32.2km ↗550m ,Round Trip Ein Yorkeam and Tzafir ⟷19.7km ↗470m ,Round Trip Or ⟷12.7km ↗330m ,Round Trip Small Crater - Half Loop ⟷23.3km ↗770m ,Round Trip Lotz Cliffs ⟷22.2km ↗470m ,Round Trip Arif Marathon ⟷42.9km ↗940m ,Round Trip Ramon Crater Traverse ⟷36.6km ↗660m ,One Way או ⟷24km ↗790m ,Round Trip

Selected Desert Running in Israel Mikvar and Tor Shoulder Mikvar Ascent, Tor and Tmarim Knives Type: One Way Distance: 21.3km Ascent: 960m Descent: 990m Fast Trekking Duration: 6-7h Start: Mitzpe Shalem End: Nahal Tmarim Parking GPX File Israel Hiking Map Character : A diverse route linking Mitzpe Shalem to Nahal Tamarim. The route includes four main sections: it begins with a climb up Ma’ale Makhvar, continues across the open desert plateau with a crossing of Nahal Darga, follows a panoramic ridge section along the shoulder of Tor descending via the Tamarim ridge, and finishes with a descent down Ma’ale Tamarim. Advantages : An impressive route. Multiple shortening options. Easy and quick hitchhiking along Road 90 back to the starting point. Public transportation access to the start. Panoramic in parts. Disadvantages : The section climbing the shoulder of Tor and descending the Tamarim ridge is unmarked (though clear). Aside from Ma’ale Makhvar and Ma’ale Tamarim, there are no technical sections. Pro Tip : Finish the day with a dip in the Kedem Springs. Variation : A slightly shorter 18 km version finishes at the checkpoint and skips the Tamarim ridge — see it here . This variation allows passing through Metzoke Dragot village with a coffee stop.

Selected Desert Running in Israel Crater to Crater No Other Place in the World with Such Craters and There is Only One Run Connecting Them Type: One Way Distance: 19.5km Ascent: 640m Descent: 490m Fast-Trekking Duration: 4-5h Start: Colored Sands Campground, Yeruham Crater End: Maale Akrabim Campground GPX File Israel Hiking Map Character : A route connecting the Yeruham Crater to the Small Crater via Nahal Yamin and Ma’ale Zafir. A diverse course featuring panoramic viewpoints, sustained ascents, sandy wadi sections, and open plateau terrain. Advantages : A varied and elegant desert traverse. Start and finish points allow for relatively simple vehicle shuttling. Disadvantages : No water sources. Hitchhiking back from Ma’ale Akrabim campground is unlikely, requiring vehicle logistics. No public transportation access. Point of Interest : Highly recommended to eat at Hummus Inti in Yeruham after the run. Variation 1 : The route can be done in the opposite direction. In that case, it makes sense to finish with a dip at Ein Yorke’am, though the cumulative ascent is greater. Variation 2 : A longer 38 km version continues across the Small Crater and finishes at Meizad Tamar. See full route here . Requires careful time planning.

Selected Desert Running in Israel Ein Yorkeam and Tzafir Nahal Hatira, Ma'ale Yamin, Gev Yamin Type: Round Trip Distance: 19.7km Ascent: 470m Descent: 470m Fast-Trekking Duration: 4-5h Start: Ein Yerke’am parking area End: Ein Yerke’am parking area GPX File Hiking Map Israel Character : A diverse route featuring a slow and technical section through Hatira Canyon, a short ascent, and a flowing ridge line from Meizad Zafir via Gav Yamin and Gav Mishmar back to Ein Yorke’am. Advantages: Up to Ma’ale Yamin the route is technical and canyon-like; from there it becomes a smooth, runnable trail Disadvantages: No access by public transportation Interest Point: Swimming at Ein Yerke’am or Gev Mishmeshit at the end of the route Variation: The route can be shortened if needed by skipping Metzad Tzafir and turning north after Ma’ale Yamin. See route here .

Selected Desert Running in Israel - Mount Karkom - Hispas Mount Karkom to Mount Hispas Route 8 via Be’er Karkom — with no mention of the Burning Bush Type: Loop Distance: 28.6km Ascent: 560m Descent: 560m Fast-Trekking Duration: 6-7h Start: Har Karkom Night Camp End: Har Karkom Night Camp Advantages: A very wild and remote running line, accessible only during limited times of the year. Disadvantages: No water sources. Technical running terrain. No access by public transportation Note: The route must be planned when Road 10 is open to the public or after obtaining military authorization. Download GPX File