Ein Gedi
It’s heartening to see families coming to Israel this summer to volunteer, bear witness, and show their support. Check out our blog post highlighting Swords of Iron volunteer opportunities – some are family-friendly. Take time to visit the museums and learn about the history and the land; our blog post featuring family-friendly museums in Israel is a great resource. While you're here, explore the country with water hikes to help beat the heat.
When my kids were little, we went camping up north in the Golan every summer. We loved the water hikes and the sights, always fitting in a rafting trip down the Jordan. We had a blast exploring the north of the country. In the summer heat of Israel, which is starting early this year with the hottest June on record, these water hikes were a refreshing escape.
Unfortunately, the north is off-limits this summer. We hope and pray to be back up there next summer, rebuilding and hiking the trails. For this summer, we have put together a list of family-friendly water hikes in the center of the country. These trails offer a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and refreshing fun, perfect for families looking to explore Central Israel's scenic landscapes. Whether you're looking for a challenging trek or a leisurely walk with plenty of water play, these trails offer something for everyone.
Ein Gedi - Nahal Arugot
- Location: Near the Dead Sea, about an hour and a half drive from Jerusalem.
- Details: Ein Gedi's Nahal Arugot is a fantastic hike that the whole family will enjoy. Although you need to hike a bit to reach the first waterfall, it's well worth the effort. The trail is dotted with pools and streams, making it perfect for a refreshing dip along the way. The lush greenery and the sound of flowing water add to the enchanting atmosphere of this beautiful oasis.
- Website: Ein Gedi - Nahal Arugot
- Nearby Attractions: After your hike, you can visit the Ein Gedi Botanical Garden or take a dip in the Dead Sea.
Nahal Alexander National Park - Bet Yanai Beach
- Location: Near the coastal town of Netanya, about 40 minutes drive from Tel Aviv.
- Details: Nahal Alexander is known for its turtle population. The trail follows the river and offers several spots where you can cool off in the water. The path is relatively easy, making it suitable for families with young children. It's a wonderful place to enjoy a picnic and watch the turtles basking in the sun.
- Website: Alexander Stream National Park
- Nearby Attractions: Close to the beach town of Netanya, where you can enjoy the Mediterranean Sea and local eateries.
Ein Prat Nature Reserve - Nahal Prat
- Location: Near the settlement of Almon, about 20 minutes drive from Jerusalem.
- Details: Ein Prat Nature Reserve, home to Nahal Prat, features a scenic hike that follows a beautiful stream. The clear, cool water and the shaded areas along the trail make it a perfect spot for a family hike. There are several natural pools where you can stop and swim, and the surrounding cliffs and vegetation add to the stunning landscape.
- Website: Ein Prat Nature Reserve
Mei Kedem - Alona Park (Photo: Bukvoed, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
Mei Kedem (Alona Park)
- Location: Near Caesarea, about 45 minutes drive from Tel Aviv.
- Details: Mei Kedem offers a unique water hike experience with its ancient underground water tunnels. This hike takes you through a series of narrow, water-filled tunnels that date back to the Roman period. Keep in mind that the tunnels are dark and narrow and might not be suitable for small children if they are afraid of the dark. It's an exciting adventure for kids and adults alike, providing a sense of exploration and history. Don’t forget to bring a flashlight and water shoes!
- Website: Mei Kedem - Alona Park
- Nearby Attractions: Explore the ancient ruins of Caesarea, including the Roman aqueduct and amphitheater.
Sataf Water Hike
- Location: In the Jerusalem Hills, about 15 minutes drive from Jerusalem.
- Details: The Sataf trail offers a combination of water and historical agricultural terraces. This hike takes you through ancient water systems and past picturesque springs. The paths are well-marked and suitable for families, with plenty of spots to rest and enjoy the views. It’s a great place to learn about ancient farming techniques while having fun in the water.
- Nearby Attractions: The village of Ein Karem with its quaint streets, art galleries, and restaurants is nearby.
Tel Afek - Antipatris
- Location: Near Rosh HaAyin, about 30 minutes drive from Tel Aviv.
- Details: Tel Afek, also known as Antipatris, is home to the headwaters of the Yarkon River. This area offers easy walking trails and several points where you can enjoy the water. The historical ruins add an educational element to the hike, making it a great spot for families.
- Website: Tel Afek area - Yarkon National Park
- Nearby Attractions: Explore the nearby Yarkon National Park, which offers additional walking trails and picnic areas.
Turtles at Nahal Alexander (Photo: JulianAlper, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
Tips for a Great Water Hike Experience
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Book Online in Advance: I highly recommend making advance reservations on the national parks website. During peak vacation seasons, the parks fill up and close to additional visitors. Another advantage is that you will receive updates about extreme weather conditions or temporary closures.Consider a Parks Pass: If you plan to visit multiple parks, it might be worthwhile to get a parks pass (Matmon) for cost savings. There are different price points for entry to the parks but it is usually worthwhile if you are visiting at least two parks.
Get There Early: Arriving early helps you beat the crowds and the heat, making for a more pleasant experience.
Bring Essentials:
- Hats: Protect yourself from the sun with wide-brim sun hats for adults and sun hats for kids.
- Water: Don't wait until you are thirsty. Stop on a regular basis to make sure that everyone drinks water. Stay hydrated with insulated water bottles.
- Sunscreen: Keep your skin protected with high-SPF sunscreen. Use a face stick and spray for little kids to stay protected from the sun. Don’t forget to reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially after being in the water.
Pack Snacks and Light Meals: Having nutritious snacks and light meals can keep energy levels up, especially for kids.
Carry a First Aid Kit: It's always a good idea to have a basic first aid kit for minor injuries. You hope not to need it, but you'll be glad to have bandaids, antibiotic ointment, ace bandages, gauze, tape, aloe vera, or something to treat bug bites. I also always make sure to have Advil and Tylenol (for both adults and kids).
Bring a Quick Dry Towel: It's usually hot enough to dry off naturally, but it's always good to have a quick dry towel or two to dry your hands or in case water gets into the kids' eyes.
Check the Weather: Always check the weather forecast before heading out to ensure safe hiking conditions. When there is extreme heat, some hikes are closed, especially longer and more challenging hikes.