4 routes · Hiking
Ein Gedi and David Falls
Begin on the shores of the Dead Sea and reach stunning waterfalls deep in Ein Gedi.
Hiking Moderate
- Distance
- 5.9 km
- Ascent
- 1.2 km
- Descent
- 1.2 km
- Duration
- 3-4 hrs
- Low Point
- -383 m
- High Point
- 426 m
- Gradient
- 42˚
This hike in the Ein Gedi nature preserve begins on the shores of the Dead Sea and leads to stunning views deep in the valley, including thundering waterfalls!
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Description
This loop hike traverses rocky trails on the sides of a narrow valley. In the bottom of the valley, the rushing Nahal David (David River) cascades over precipitous cliffs creating several beautiful waterfalls.
The most famous of the waterfalls is "David Falls." Thanks to its 36-meter drop, David Falls is the tallest waterfall in the Judean Desert. However, this isn't the only cascade in the bottom of the canyon. Along the way to David Falls, you'll pass several other waterfalls, each of which is beautiful in its own right.
While David Falls and Ein Gedi hold historical significance because of their connection to the Biblical character of David, "this spot is unique because of how it contrasts with its barren desert surroundings—the gushing water with the green vegetation around it," according to AtlasObscura.com
Sources: https://www.hike-israel.com/nature-in-israel/ein-gedi/ https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/david-waterfall
Difficulty
Moderate
Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.
Medium Exposure
The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.
Remoteness
Away from help but easily accessed.
Best time to visit
Features
- Historical
- Picturesque
- Water features
- Family friendly
Guidebooks in this area