Paran: Hiking and Views near Kippat Eshet

Near Moshav Paran are the circular hiking trail to Kippat Eshet and the Mitzpor Paran observation terrace. You can take in the landscape on a hike or from a viewpoint. When looking for a hotel in Paran, a practical planning question can help: How much time would you like to set aside for hiking, and would you also like to visit a viewpoint?

Hiking near Kippat Eshet

The circular hiking trail to Kippat Eshet, near Moshav Paran, is suitable for families. The route is about 6.5 kilometers long and follows trails marked in green and black; the hike is estimated to take approximately two to three hours. Circular hikes on the Kippat Eshet ridge also range from about two hours to a half-day excursion. The circular trail to Kippat Eshet can be extended if needed. The options described therefore range from a hike of approximately two to three hours to longer hikes on the ridge. Check current safety and trail conditions before setting out.

The hiking route offers views of the Arava, the Hadod Cliffs, the Paran River course, and Moshav Paran. Overnight camping sites are located near the route. If you plan to camp, check access and use arrangements in advance.

Views of the Arava

The Mitzpor Paran observation terrace, near Moshav Paran, offers views of the moshav, the expanses of the Arava, and the Edom Mountains. Some of these sights can also be seen on the route to Kippat Eshet: from there, the view also stretches across the Arava to Moshav Paran, with the Hadod Cliffs and the Paran River course in addition. The terrace and the hiking trail thus offer two different perspectives on the landscape. When planning your trip, you can decide whether you would like to set aside time for the hike, the viewpoint, or both.

More topics in the wider Southern District destination

The wider Southern District destination offers distinct historical and natural heritage. Avdat National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site along the route of the ancient Incense Route in the Negev Highlands. Masada is also in the Southern District: the site represents the ancient Kingdom of Israel, its violent destruction, and the final resistance of Jewish patriots against the Roman army in 73 CE. The remains of Herod’s palaces and intact Roman siege works have been preserved there; they are among the most complete of their kind in the Roman world.

Ein Gedi Nature Reserve in the Southern District encompasses Israel’s largest oasis, with springs, waterfalls, and flowing streams. Animals found there include ibex and rock hyraxes. A hiking trail follows the year-round Nahal Arugot to a hidden waterfall and pools in its upper reaches. Trail conditions may change after floods.

Another attraction in the Southern District is the visitor center at the 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 unique natural phenomena. Registering in advance through the visit coordination system secures a place for your chosen visit date. Check the registration details before planning, as operational information may change.

Discover more destinations: Sha’al, Beit Hillel, Chorazin, HaZore‘im, Abirim, Kidmat Tsvi, Amuka, Migdal

Back to the main travel overview: Israel.