Running the Israeli Desert Tips Type: (‘One Way’ – the ending point is not the starting point, or ‘Round Trip’ – the ending point is also the starting point) Distance: (running distance in km) Ascent: (gaining vertical in meters) Descent: (descending vertical in meters) Time: (estimated required time in hours without breaks) Start: (name of the starting point of the run) End: (name of the ending point of the run) Variation: (possible way for shortening or extending the tour) Advantages: (why this tour is awesome) Disadvantages: (what can be fucked-up about it) Download GPX File: (navigation file if used another navigation tool than Strava) Map: (Interactive map of the run - better used with Komoot app or desktop.)It is strongly recommended to use also amudanan.co.il) How to read this guidebook? This guidebook is using Komoot to describe the run. It is recommended to browse the map on Komoot website or use Komoot App. komoot.com Although Israel has a good cellular coverage – some areas in the desert are not connected. Keep that in mind for navigation purposes and potential emergency. It is recommended to download the route offline – it will reduce battery consumption and will help where cellular is not available. All routes on this website (unless explicitly noted differently) are on a marked trail. Mostly well marked. All marked trails in Israel are on www.amudanan.co.il . It is extremely recommended to download Amud Anan app and use it as a complimentary tool for planning and navigating. Map and Navigation The estimated times on this guide do not factor preparing your gear at the parking, stops for eating, taking pictures, navigation issues etc. Moreover, the time estimated assumes continuous running when it’s rarely the case in reality. Especially on technical lines. Allow at least 20%-30% extra time. The running season in the desert is mostly wintertime when the days are short (plan to finish the run before 16:00). Therefore, the way to execute these runs is to start early, move with a sense of urgency and finish early. Time Management This is a basic guidebook for desert running routes. It describes the principles of the route only in bullet points. The underlined assumption is that users are autonomous and experienced trail runners that can plan and execute adventures on their own. That is especially true for navigating in the desert where the terrain can be technical and remote. At any rate - this website does not take any responsibility of any kind. Go do your own homework and take ownership for your actions. Disclaimer Weather Forecast: www.meteoblue.com Wind Forecast: www.windy.com (I like ECMWF model) Emergency numbers in Israel: https://www.b144.co.il/EmergencyNo.aspx Trail Navigation: https://amudanan.co.il/ Rain Radar App: Home - Flowx Flood warnings: אזהרות | Israel Meteorological Service (ims.gov.il) Weather Forecast and Other Sources Do you plan to mule 10kg of gear and water for the route? Forget it. The tours here require a minimalistic supply of water and the very essential lightweight-category gear. For each route you need to pack slightly different but as a principle - go 'light&fast'. Otherwise you can’t really run, the required amount of time becomes unfeasible and you will compromise your safely on the delicate runs. kit suggestion: - Running Jacket (wind breaker) - Water (0.5L to 2.5L) depends on the season and route - Mobile - Energy bars and gels - Headlamp - Sun glasses - Sun Hate - Painkiller pills - In the winter: down Jacket, gloves and headband (especially in case you might run into the night) Gear Mind the season and region: The Israeli desert is essentially allowing running year-route (yeah - try night running in the summer). That said – every season does have different characteristics that one need to understand and take under consideration. Moreover, the desert differentiates between the Negev Mountains area which is higher, cooler and tend to rain vs. the Judaean and the Arava areas which are lower, warmer and rarely rain. Summer (Jun to October): Extremely hot and running is generally too brutal. The only exception is night running on a non-technical terrain, ideally in full moon Spring (March-May) and autumn (Nov-Dec): Usually these are good seasons in Israel for desert running. It rarely rains, temperatures are relatively warm but possible for running and the days are long enough for doing long lines. Winter (January-February): Weather is generally less stable and some days could be rainy with flooding risk. Although relatively short days, the temperatures for running are comfortable. Note that the nights in the desert, especially in the Negev Mountains, can be below freezing (It’s not unusual to start early morning with a down jacket). Seasons and Conditions ריצת שטח במדבר – כל העקרונות שכדאי לדעת More to Read

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 Mount Ayt and Kasui Dune ?Shayarot Cliffs and Nahal Kasui - Is this route in Israel or Morocco Type: Round Trip Distance: 32.4km Ascent: 550m Descent: 550m Fast-Trekking Duration: 6-7h Start: Mount Ayt End: Mount Ayt GPX File Israel Hiking Map Character : A two-part route — one section flowing and panoramic along the edge of the Shayerot cliffs, and the other crossing Sahara-style sand dunes. Advantages: Stunning panoramic line above Ketura and Lotan with a smooth, flowing running route, Kasui dunes are one of a kind in Israel - though challenging for running. Recommendation : It is possible to cache water at the trail junction with Road 1101, next to Ovda Air Base. Take extra socks - walking the dunes is messy. Variation : A (very) shortened 8 km alternative for those who want to focus on the dunes only is possible via the “Barefoot Route.” A lovely variation suitable for the whole family: throw your shoes in the pack and walk barefoot across the dunes. The route is available here . Starting point: Kisu’i Dunes North parking area.

Selected Desert Running in Israel Shani, the Red Canyon and Rehem Through red cliffs and Eilat's 2 major Nehalim Type: Round Trip Distance: 24.7km Ascent: 980m Descent: 980m Fast-Trekking Duration: 6-7h Start: Amram Parking End: Amram Parking GPX File Israel Hiking Map Character : A varied route in the heart of the Eilat Mountains with an outbound leg through Nahal Shani — a sandy, climbing, and slow section — a visit to the Red Canyon — a technical ladder section — and a return leg along a flowing, descending mountain bike singletrack. Although it may not appear long, it should not be underestimated. A committing route. Advantages : The sandy uphill run in Nahal Shani is tough, but the flowing descent through Rechem makes it worthwhile. Disadvantages: No water sources. On weekends, the Red Canyon can be crowded with visitors. Consider : The day before, you can cache water at the Red Canyon parking area. Variation : In case of necessity or emergency, you can exit the route after the Red Canyon to Road 12 and call a taxi. See route here.

Selected Desert Running in Israel Nahal Shualim and Hatira Massif A long point-to-point route from Yeruham to Midreshet Ben-Gurion via Daruch Stream Type : One Way Distance : 38.0km Ascent : 660m Descent : 660m Fast-Trekking Duration : 7-8h Start : Yeruham Stronghold End : Midreshet Ben Gurion GPX File Israel Hiking Map Character : A volume route, partially unmarked but very clear, running between two central Negev towns. Non-technical overall, except for the Horseshoe (Parsat Daruch) section, which includes a stunning panoramic segment above the Yeruham Crater and the impressive Nahal Daruch. Advantages : Running along the western rim of the crater is excellent — an unmarked but beautiful section. Public transport access to both Yeruham and Midreshet Ben-Gurion. Disadvantages : A committing route. No water sources. Variation : It’s possible to shorten the route by about 10 km by finishing at Merhav Am (public transport available) – see route here.

Selected Desert Running in Israel Lotz Cliffs Nahal Eliav, a panoramic line along wild cliffs, and Mount Ido Type: Round Trip Distance: 22.2 km Ascent: 470m Descent: 470m Fast-Trekking Duration: 4-5h Start: Nahal Erod Parking (accessible by private car) End : Nahal Erod Parking GPX File Israel Hiking Map Character : A varied route in the western part of Makhtesh Ramon featuring a double panoramic line overlooking both Har Arif and Makhtesh Ramon. The first section climbs up Nahal Eliav to the top of Ma’ale Lutz. From there the route continues along a panoramic line on the edge of the Lutz cliffs, connects to Har Ido, and descends via a wide jeep track down Ma’ale Arud. The technical level is moderate. The section along the edge of the Lutz cliffs is not on a marked trail. Advantages : Partly panoramic route. The Nahal Eliav area has seasonal desert blooms. Disadvantages : No water point. No access by public transportation. Point of Interest : Recommended to visit Nana Winery in the area after the run. Variation : The route can be shortened by skipping the climb to Har Ido. See the route here .

Selected Desert Running in Israel Akrabim Crown Challenge Four Ascents of Ramat Akrabim: Mazleot, Akrabim, Gov and Tzafir Type: Round Trip Distance: 29.5km Ascent: 1040m Descent: 1040m Fast-Trekking Duration: 7-8h Start: Akrabim Night Camp End: Akrabim Night Camp GPX File Israel Hiking Map Character : A vertical-kilometer challenge linking the four ascents of Ramat Akrabim from east to west: Ma’aleh Ali, Ma’aleh Akrabim, Ma’aleh Gov and Ma’aleh Tzafir. A steep, technical route on sustained gradients with multiple ladder sections. The route is not fully committing and allows mid-route access to a vehicle. Advantages : Four impressive ascents in one big day. A route with a strong emphasis on climbing. Disadvantages : The ascents are not built for running. Pro Tip : Go very light. Cache food and water at the vehicle starting point. You can also stash water at the Mitzpeh HaMakhtesh parking area (top of Ma’aleh Akrabim), which is accessible by car. Variation 1: The route is designed to allow a possible finish after climbing Ma’aleh Ali and descending via Ma’aleh Akrabim. This variation is 22 km with 650 m of ascent. See here . Variation 2: A shortened alternative focusing on a technical climb up Ma’aleh Akrabim and a flowing descent via Ma’aleh Tzafir. Total 18 km with 570 m of ascent. See here .

Selected Desert Running in Israel Tzeelim Challenge The Eight Ascents of Tze’elim Canyon Type: Round Trip Distance: 40.3km Ascent: 1860m Descent: 1860m Fast Trekking Duration: 9-11h Start: Nahal Tzeelim Night Camp End: Nahal Tzeelim Night Camp GPX File Israel Hiking Map Character: An extreme challenge in one of Israel’s largest and most beautiful canyons, with strong emphasis on technical climbs and distance. Advantages: Excellent technical vertical training. The route can be shortened at any point by moving toward the exit via Tze’elim Canyon or along the southern canyon rim Disadvantages: Na’ama Pool mid-route may require a full water crossing. No water sources. No public transport access to the start point. No convenient caching location. Pro Tip : It is recommended to cache water and a few gels the day before at Ein Namer, which intersects the route twice. Variation : A shortened 25 km version can be found in the route “Sovev Tze’elim .”

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 7 Ascents in the Dead Sea A line of ascents via Ashal, Mishmar, Tze’elim, and Masada Type: One way Distance: 31.1km Ascent: 1820m Descent: 1740m Fast Trekking Duration: 7-8h Start: Nahal Mishmar Night Camp End: Masada East GPX File Israel Hiking Map Character : A technical route composed of a collection of steep ascents through the canyons of Mishmar, Tze’elim, and Masada. A major challenge — not for hot days. Advantages: A challenging route, but structured with several exit points. It finishes at Masada, making it relatively easy to hitch a ride back to Nahal Mishmar. The emphasis is on climbing. There are exit options via Nahal Mishmar and Nahal Tze’elim if you wish to shorten the route. You can also skip Ma’ale Elazar if the engine runs out. Disadvantages: No water sources. Pro Tip : On days with strong northern winds, the route feels easier with a tailwind at your back.

Selected Desert Running in Israel Bat Sheva and Mount Shlomo Visit the Alp of Eilat Type: Round Trip Distance: 19.8km Ascent: 720m Descent: 720m Fast-Trekking Duration: 5-6h Start: Netafim - Rodad Parking End: Netafim - Rodad Parking GPX File Israel Hiking Map Character : A dramatic route in the heart of the Eilat Mountains. A technical ascent via Nahal Bat Sheva, climbing on ladders and steep terrain up to the summit of Mount Shlomo. From there, a flowing and enjoyable descent through Roded Valley. The final kilometers follow the sandy bed of Nahal Roded back to the starting point. For dessert, an extra 3 km along Yotam Ridge. A not particularly committing route with several shortening options. Advantages : A beautiful and highly diverse route with lovely ladder climbs along Nahal Bat Sheva and flowing running from the summit of Mount Shlomo down to Nahal Roded. Disadvantages : No access by public transportation. Variation 1 : The route can be shortened to 16 km — instead of descending via Nahal Roded, descend via Nahal Netafim. See route here . Variation 2: It can also be shortened to 16 km by skipping Yotam Ridge at the end of the route. See route here .

Masada and the Kanaim Valley The Runner Trail and Mount Elazar ⟷28.1km ↗1002m The Ein Gedi Trilogy Open Buffet Acsents: Mount Tzruya, Mount Ein Gedi and Mount Yishai ⟷20.7km ↗2030m Circle the crater of Yeruham An elegant and large panoramic line around a breathtaking natural phenomenon ⟷40.2km ↗1536m Mount Ayt Ma'aleh Ketura, Ma'aleh Yitro and one eagle in the middle ⟷39.6km ↗780m Bat Sheva, Mount Solomon and Rodad Visit the Alp of Eilat ⟷19.8km ↗720m Ramon Crater for Sapir Cross-desert run: from the Negev desert to the Arava ⟷36km ↗905m Jabel Hermon Spaghetti One of the most beautiful runs in the country Timna Sightseeing Visiting the attractions of Timna Park ⟷25.4km ↗540m Mount Ayt Ma'aleh Ketura, Ma'aleh Yitro and one eagle in the middle ⟷39.6km ↗780m Mount Ramon to Mount Arif Farthest from civilization and long enough to distill ⟷42.9km ↗940m Timna Circle Ma'ale Malhan, Mount Berech and Mount Timna ⟷29.3km ↗1151m Tze'elim Challenge Eight Degrees of Tze'elim Canyon ⟷40.3km ↗1860m Sapir Triangle from Sapir with a view of Nahal Tsabira and a visit to Mount Gavim ⟷23.5km ↗400m Ein Gedi to Nahal Mishmar A line flowing on the Judean Desert stage and a visit to Ein Hever ⟷19.9km ↗874m Timna Sightseeing Visiting the attractions of Timna Park ⟷25.4km ↗540m From Masada to Arad Long line across the Judean Desert ⟷18.9km ↗1329m Akrabim Crown Challenge Four Ascents of Ramat Akrabim: Ali, Akrabim, Gov and Tzafir ⟷29.5km ↗1040m Nahal Og, the Sugar Trail and Jabel Hermon Spaghetti between knives and powder ⟷27.6km ↗890m Mount Arif to Mount Karkom The most remote and wild there is ⟷34.5km ↗850m Mount Muntar and Marsaba Monastery The most beautiful monastery in the country in the backyard of Ma'ale Adumim ⟷25.6km ↗770m Mount Ardon to Mitzpe Ramon Mahmal Ascent and a long panoramic line over the Ramon Crater ⟷32.3km ↗997m Barak, Vardit and a Kippa Two crazy canyons and a view of the Ashush Valley deep in the Arava ⟷30.3km ↗660m Avnat to Qumran Short and sweet over the Dead Sea ⟷13.7km ↗310m Yotvata to Shaharut Ma'ale Zogan and a visit to the most cool village in the Arava ⟷21.7km ↗766m Seven Ascents in the Dead Sea Ascension Line via Asael, Mishmar, Tze'elim and Masada ⟷31.1km ↗1820m