Neve Zohar: Hiking and Cycling

Neve Zohar has two clear connections to trails: the Zohar Stream hiking trail starts in the town, and a section of the Israel National Trail for Bicycles runs between Masada and Neve Zohar. The activities differ in route shape, length and level of difficulty—from a loop trail to a longer cycling route.

Hiking along Zohar Stream

The Zohar Stream hiking trail passes through a narrow gorge cut into limestone and past a six-meter-high dry waterfall. The narrow gorge and dry waterfall together shape the route’s landscape. The loop trail is two kilometers long. Visiting Zohar Citadel adds an extra 1.5-kilometer round trip. The trail is suitable for hiking enthusiasts and families.

The distance figures answer different planning questions: two kilometers is the length of the loop route; 1.5 kilometers describes the additional round trip to Zohar Citadel. Keep these sections separate when planning, and include the detour if you intend to walk it. The trail is not suitable for hiking on rainy days. So don’t plan to hike it on rainy days, and check local conditions before setting out.

Cycling between Masada and Neve Zohar

The section of the Israel National Trail for Bicycles between Masada and Neve Zohar is about 40 kilometers long. Technically and physically, it is considered moderately difficult to challenging and is suitable for experienced cyclists. The rating covers both demands, so the recommendation for experienced riders is important when deciding whether to include the route in your trip. Check current route conditions before setting out.

More sights in the Southern District

The wider destination of the Southern District also offers a range of nature and cultural attractions. Avdat National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site along the route of the ancient Incense Road in the Negev Highlands. Ein Gedi Nature Reserve encompasses Israel’s largest oasis, with springs, waterfalls and flowing streams. Ibexes and hyraxes are also among its natural features. A hiking trail along Nahal Arugot, which flows year-round, leads to a hidden waterfall and pools in the upper reaches. Trail conditions may change after floods; take this into account when planning.

Masada offers a historical focus in the Southern District. The site is a symbol of the ancient Kingdom of Israel, its violent destruction, and the last stand of Jewish patriots against the Roman army in 73 CE. Archaeological evidence includes the remains of Herod’s palaces and intact Roman siege works, among the most complete of their kind in the Roman world. Another way to explore nature and culture is the visitor center at Ramon Crater: it connects the life story of Israel’s first astronaut, Lieutenant Colonel Ilan Ramon, with an introduction to the world’s largest crater and its distinctive natural phenomena.

Discover more destinations: Haon, Tur'an, Kibbutz Kinneret, Avdon, Kefar Aharon, Elon, Holon, Ramat Hasharon

View the broader travel overview: Israel.