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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 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.

Selected Desert Running in Israel Yahel A loop around Mount Ya’alon on the mountain-bike singletracks of Kibbutz Yahal Type: Round Trip Distance: 24.6km Ascent: 340m Descent: 340m Fast-Trekking Duration: 4-5h Start: Entrance gate of Kibbutz Yahal End: Entrance gate of Kibbutz Yahal GPX File Israel Hiking Map Character : An open, flowing route around Kibbutz Yahel, following the local mountain bike singletracks. A non-committing route with minimal elevation gain. Advantages : Very runnable and non-technical. The terrain layout makes it easy to shorten or extend the route. Accessible by public transportation. Disadvantages : The route is not officially marked, but the singletracks are very clear and easy to follow. Point of Interest : The only restaurant recommendation on this entire site: Ursula Restaurant in Tzukim. Variation : A shortened circular version of 18 km can be found here .

Selected Desert Running in Israel Ein Bokek A 5 Stars Line Above the Fancy Hotels Type: Round Trip Distance: 21.3km Ascent: 930m Descent: 930m Fast Trekking Duration: 6-7h Start: Bokek Ruins, Ein Bokek End: Bokek Ruins, Ein Bokek GPX File Israel Hiking Map Character : A varied route that samples ascent, viewpoints, a wadi, and an open desert plateau. The first leg climbs Ma’ale Bokek and continues south along the Judean Desert plateau, partly following the Israel Bike Trail, then descends via the pedestrian Ma’ale Zeron. The return leg climbs north via Ma’ale Yizrach and continues on an unmarked but clear trail back to the cliff edge, then heads north along the rim with panoramic views of the Dead Sea — finishing again via Ma’ale Bokek. Apart from the two ascents, the route is not technical. Advantages : Accessible by public transport. Multiple shortening options. Varied terrain. Significant climb. Disadvantages : No water point. Significant cumulative descent. Variation : The route can be shortened by exiting to Road 31 near Ma’ale Zaron and from there hitching a ride, arranging a shuttle, or taking public transportation back to Ein Bokek — see variation here . Point of Interest : Hummus Eliyahu in Ein Bokek.

Selected Desert Running in Israel XC Eilat Mountains Mount Yehoram to Beer Ora Type: One Way Distance: 28.2km Ascent: 933m Descent: 1454m Fast-Trekking Duration: 7-8h Start: Campground Mount Yehoram End: Beer Ora GPX File Israel Hiking Map Character : A south-to-north traverse of the Eilat Mountains across varied terrain — both technical and flowing — with significant elevation gain. A committing route. Advantages : Dramatic scenery. Technical terrain. A water point in Nahal Shkhoret (a stainless-steel tank intended for thru-hikers — no guarantee it is full). Disadvantages : Relatively committing. No access by public transportation. Variation 1 : You can shorten the route by 2 km by skipping Mount Shlomo. See route here . Variation 2 : The route can be significantly shortened into a 12 km half-day option by exiting through Shkhoret Canyon to Shkhoret night parking area. Access is possible by private vehicle or with a pre-arranged shuttle. See route here . Variation 3 : For the big kids — a monumental Eilat Mountains crossing linking Mount Tzafot to Be’er Ora. See route here .

Selected Desert Running in Israel Mount Karbolet and Tzin The Big Crater and a Taste of Tzin Desert Type: One Way Distance: 36.4km Ascent: 1030m Descent: 850m Fast-Trekking Duration: 9-10 h Start: Colored Sands Campground, Yeruham Crater End: Midreshet Ben Gurion GPX File Israel Hiking Map Character : A long line linking two consecutive Israel National Trail sections: the first a knife-edge, panoramic traverse along the eastern rim of the Yeruham Crater (one of the most beautiful segments of the Israel Trail), and the second dipping into the Zin Desert with a long, flat, open stretch finishing at Midreshet Ben-Gurion. Advantages : Outstanding running along the eastern rim of the crater. A diverse and highly wild desert traverse. Disadvantages : A committing route. No water sources. No public transportation access. Vehicle shuttling required. No convenient water cache point (though with effort, water can be cached the day before at Nahal Madar campsite). Pro Tip : Gav Ofarim on the descent into the Zin Desert sits halfway through the route — perfectly timed for a dip. Pro Tip 2 : Especially recommended on a day with active easterly winds. Variation : A shortened 18 km circular version with 660 m of ascent focusing on Har Karbolet can be found here . The variation descends after Har Karbolet into the crater interior via the Pipeline Line (unmarked and moderately steep) and returns to the starting point via Nahal Havion.

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 - Mount Arif to Mount Karkom Mount Arif to Mount Karkom Super Wild and Remote Type: One Way Distance: 34.5km Ascent: 850m Descent: 910m Fast-Trekking Duration: 7-8h Start: Har Arif Night Camp End: Har Karkom Night Camp GPX File Israel Hiking Map Character : A unique and diverse route. The first segment climbs Har Arif, then continues south on complex, rolling terrain. After Be’er Karkom Campground, the route ascends into a panoramic knife-edge section leading to Har Karkom, which opens into a broad plateau. A committing route. Advantages : A highly wild and remote running line, accessible only during limited periods of the year. Disadvantages : No water sources. Access requires a long off-road drive (via Bikat Hasun to the campground and from Har Karkom campground to Highway 10). No public transportation access. Pro Tip : Instead of vehicle shuttling, you can cache a pair of bicycles at Har Karkom Campground and ride back to your car along the jeep track running west of the route. Variation : If needed, the route can be shortened by 4 km by skipping the Har Karkom plateau (from the end of the black trail, descend directly to Har Karkom Campground). See route here . Note: The route must be coordinated when Highway 10 is open to the public or after obtaining military approval.

Selected Desert Running in Israel Mount Ramon and Mount Ido A Wild Circle on a Moon-Like Terrain Type: Round Trip Distance: 19.6km Ascent: 501m Descent: 501m Fast-Trekking Duration: 4-5h Start: Parking area east to mount Ramon (accessible with private car) End: Parking area east to mount Ramon GPX File Israel Hiking Map Character : A flowing, non-technical route in the eastern Ramon Crater with modest cumulative ascent and predominantly panoramic terrain. Advantages : Smooth and runnable with no technical sections. Largely panoramic throughout. An easy shortening option is available. Disadvantages : No water sources. No public transportation access. Point of Interest : Recommended to visit Nana Winery in the area after the run. Variation : If needed, the route can be shortened to 13 km by skipping the ascent to Har Ido. See shortened 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

Selected Desert Running in Israel Small Crater - Half Loop Ashmedai Gate, Ali Ascent and Nahal Matzleot Type: Round Trip Distance: 23.3km Ascent: 770m Descent: 770m Fast-Trekking Duration: 4-5 m Start: Machtesh View Point Parking End: Machtesh View Point Parking GPX File Israel Hiking Map Character : A diverse route featuring two technical ascents — Ma’ale Eli and Ma’ale Nahal Mitzlaot — followed by a fast and open line crossing the Small Crater and connecting to the Mitzlaot ridge axis. Advantages : Includes a beautiful section of the Israel National Trail with impressive views over the Small Crater. Disadvantages : A committing route. No public transportation access. Pro Tip : A dip at Gev Yamin at the end of the route.

Selected Desert Running in Israel Tzeelim Circle Loop around the Great Canyon of the Judean Desert, via Tzafira Pool and Ma’ale Anava Type: Round Trip Distance: 25km Ascent: 970m Descent: 970m Time: 6-7h Start: Campground Nahal Tzeelim (accessible with private car) End: Campground Nahal Tzeelim GPX File Israel Hiking Map Character : A panoramic loop around Tze’elim Canyon, mostly on flowing terrain. Advantages: When Tzpira pond is full one can dip (mid-route). Non-technical and flowing route. Disadvantages: Water is not available. Not accessible with public transportation. Variation 1: The route can be exited by descending Namer Ascent into Tzeelim dry riverbed and continue east toward the starting point. See variation here . Variation 2: One can deposit a car or hitchhike from Tzeelim upper nightcamp (exactly mid-road). There is not much traffic on that road during weekdays so don't count on hitchhiking.