Neve Zohar: Canyon Hike and Cycling Route

Neve Zohar combines a hiking route that starts in the town with a section of the Israel National Trail for Bicycles between Neve Zohar and Masada. On foot or by bicycle, these offer two different ways to experience the landscape actively.

Hiking through the Zohar Stream Canyon

The Zohar Stream hiking trail passes through a narrow canyon cut into limestone and by a six-metre-high dry waterfall. The trail is not suitable for hiking on rainy days; check the trail conditions before setting out.

The trail is two kilometres long and forms a loop. There is also a 1.5-kilometre out-and-back route to Zohar Citadel. You can plan the loop as a hike on its own or add the separate Citadel section.

Cycling between Neve Zohar and Masada

A section of the Israel National Trail for Bicycles between Masada and Neve Zohar is about 40 kilometres long. It is rated moderate to challenging in terms of technical and physical difficulty, and is suitable for experienced cyclists. Check the current route conditions before setting out.

The activities also differ in their intended audiences: the hiking trail is aimed at hiking enthusiasts and families, while the cycling section is for experienced cyclists. Hiking is also subject to rain-related restrictions, while cycling involves technical and physical challenges. These differences can provide a practical point of reference when looking for a holiday apartment.

In the wider destination of the Southern District

Masada is an important historical landmark there. The site symbolises the ancient Kingdom of Israel, its violent destruction, and the final resistance of Jewish patriots against the Roman army in 73 AD. The remains of Herod’s palaces have been preserved, as have untouched Roman siege works, among the most complete of their kind in the Roman world. Registering in advance in the visitor coordination system for your selected visit date secures a place in Masada National Park. Check the current requirements before your visit.

The Ein Gedi Nature Reserve is also part of the wider destination of the Southern District. It includes Israel’s largest oasis, with springs and waterfalls, ibexes and rock hyraxes, as well as flowing streams. A hiking trail follows the year-round Nahal Arugot to a hidden waterfall and pools upstream. Trail conditions may change after floods.

In the wider destination of the Southern District, the visitor centre at the Ramon Crater combines the life story of Israel’s first astronaut, Lieutenant Colonel Ilan Ramon, with an introduction to the world’s largest crater and its unique natural phenomena. Registering in advance in the visitor coordination system for your selected visit date secures a place at the visitor centre; check the current requirements beforehand.

Discover more destinations: Vered Yeriho, Kfar Tabor, Kfar Vradim, Manot, Yeroẖam, Elon, Sde Yitzhak, Avdon.

Back to the wider travel overview: Israel.