Ein Avdat National Park – Desert Canyon Majesty
Ein Avdat is a deep, carved canyon in the Negev Desert that looks like nature’s cathedral. Towering white limestone walls plunge into emerald pools, creating dramatic vertical contrasts. The trail features ladders, narrow passages, and cliff-side paths that reward hikers with breathtaking views down the canyon. The upper viewpoint offers one of the most striking panoramas in Israel—layered cliffs glowing gold under the desert sun.
Why it’s unreal: The silence, the scale, and the golden-light reflections make it feel like walking inside a natural sculpture.
Masada Snake Path – Sunrise Above the Dead Sea
Masada’s Snake Path is iconic. Winding up an ancient fortress mountain overlooking the Dead Sea, it’s challenging but deeply rewarding. Most hikers start before dawn to catch sunrise from the summit, where the sky catches fire in hues of pink, orange, and red. The Dead Sea glistens below, and the Moab mountains on the Jordanian side add even more drama.
Why it’s unreal: That sunrise. Combined with the ruins and the desert vista, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime sight.
Nahal Jilabun – Waterfalls in the Golan Heights
For lush, green scenery, head to the Golan Heights and hike along Nahal Jilabun. The trail passes through thick vegetation, basalt cliffs, and the impressive Jilabun Waterfall—the second tallest in Israel. The hike offers a refreshing contrast to the desert landscapes farther south.
Why it’s unreal: A roaring waterfall cascading into a serene, hidden pool surrounded by dark volcanic rock.
Mount Arbel – Cliffs Above the Sea of Galilee
Mount Arbel provides some of the most sweeping views in northern Israel. The trail hugs dramatic cliffs and offers panoramic sights of the Sea of Galilee, the Golan Heights, and surrounding agricultural fields. The descent includes ancient caves and pathways once used by rebels thousands of years ago.
Why it’s unreal: A cliff-edge viewpoint that feels like standing on the edge of the world.
Timna Park – Surreal Desert Formations
Timna Park in the southern Negev looks like a Martian landscape. The hiking trails weave between red sandstone pillars, natural arches, copper mines, and towering cliffs. Popular spots include Solomon’s Pillars, the Mushroom rock, and the Arches Trail. Each corner reveals a new dramatic shape sculpted by wind and time.
Why it’s unreal: Vivid red rock formations glowing under bright blue skies—it looks otherworldly.
Nachal Amud (Amud Stream) – Galilee’s Hidden Green Canyon
Nachal Amud is one of Israel’s most picturesque northern hikes. It follows the path of a seasonal stream through lush greenery, small waterfalls, and shaded pools. The Amud pillar, a narrow limestone column rising from the valley floor, gives the trail its name. Spring is especially stunning, with wildflowers covering the slopes.
Why it’s unreal: A perfect blend of water, greenery, and rolling hills—unexpected and peaceful.
Ein Gedi Nature Reserve – Oasis Between Desert Cliffs
Ein Gedi is a desert oasis near the Dead Sea, filled with flowing springs, waterfalls, ibex, and dramatic vertical cliffs. Hikers can choose between multiple trails, including the David Waterfall and the higher, more challenging Ein Gedi Ascent. The contrast between dry, rugged desert and pockets of fresh water is breathtaking.
Why it’s unreal: An oasis straight out of a biblical story—lush, alive, and surrounded by desert silence.
Mount Carmel—Mediterranean Forests and Sea Views
Mount Carmel offers a refreshing mix of forest trails, Mediterranean air, and coastal views. The Carmel National Park area is filled with scenic routes, including the famous Little Switzerland trail, named for its pine forests and dramatic vistas. From many points, hikers can look out over the glittering Haifa Bay.
Why it’s unreal: A blend of emerald forests meeting sparkling blue sea in a single sweeping view.
Nahal Yehudiya – Pools and Canyon Walls in the Golan
Another Golan classic, Nahal Yehudiya is an adventurous trail featuring long canyon stretches, water crossings, and large natural pools. The famous hexagonal basalt columns in the area create a visually striking landscape. This hike is more challenging and perfect for thrill-seekers.
Why it’s unreal: Dramatic canyons + volcanic rock formations + natural swimming pools.
Israel National Trail (Selected Sections) – Ultimate Scenic Diversity
The Israel National Trail spans over 1,000 kilometers from Dan in the north to Eilat in the south. While few hikers complete the entire trail, certain sections offer unreal views, including cliff-side paths above the Makhtesh Ramon crater, rolling hills in the Galilee, and sandy dunes near the Mediterranean coast.
Why it’s unreal: No other trail shows so many landscapes in such a short distance—it’s Israel’s scenic backbone.
