Timna Circle
Malhan Ascent, Mount Berekh and Mount Timna
Type: Round Trip
Distance: 29.3km
Ascent: 970m
Descent: 970m
Fast-Trekking Duration: 7-8h
Start: Timna park’s entrance
End: Timna park’s entrance
Character: A route that climbs from the Timna Valley up to the Timna cliffs and loops around the park. It tackles three major ascents – Ma’aleh Malhan, Ma’aleh Barekh, and Ma’aleh Har Timna – with significant elevation gain overall. This is a demanding route that requires solid fitness and the ability to handle sustained climbs.
Advantages: Mostly flowing terrain. Running above the Timna cliffs feels wild and is highly recommended. Panoramic for much of the way. Public transportation access to the main road (from there, you’ll need a hitchhike into the park).
Disadvantages: No water sources. A demanding route with limited shortening options.
Note: As proposed, the route does not require paying the park entrance fee.
Variation: Toward the end, the route can be slightly shortened by skipping the climb up Mount Timna and returning to the car via the main internal park road. That said, it would be a shame to miss what is arguably the most beautiful “table mountain” in Israel. The variation does not significantly reduce the total distance, but it does allow for a faster exit if you are approaching sunset. See route here.