Three Recommended Hiking Trails with Full Water Pools in the Tamar Regional Council

This is the perfect time to go hiking, refresh yourself, and discover the magic of the Tamar Regional Council area. As the desert awakens and the local streams fill with clear water pools following the recent rains, dramatic landscapes and a unique nature experience are revealed.

Here are three trails in the Tamar Regional Council that you shouldn't miss:

Nahal Rahaf:
A beautiful desert trail leading to several water pools.
Getting there: Drive on Route 90, park in one of the regulated bays near the entrance of the stream (usually around km 230–231).
The trail begins with a green marker, continues to black—where you will find two main pools—and then to the blue trail leading to additional pools in a pleasant, shaded area.

Nahal Zohar - Gev Zohar:
A short, easy, and accessible trail – suitable for families with children.
Getting there: Drive on Route 90 to the Zohar Junction, turn toward Metzad Zohar, and park nearby. From there, it's just a short walk of a few dozen meters to the pool.
A large and impressive water pool nestled within a natural canyon and surrounded by acacia trees. The route also includes a visit to the ancient Roman fortress, "Metzad Zohar."

Nahal Tze'elim:
Location: West of Route 90, between the Masada junction and Ein Gedi. Access: Turn west from Route 90 (between km markers 234–235) onto a red-marked dirt road (approx. 4 km). One of the most impressive streams in the area, with narrow canyons, unique rock formations, and seasonal water pools. After floods, the pools fill with clear, cool water inside white limestone crevices – a spectacular and refreshing experience.
The wide white rock surfaces create a powerful contrast with the blue-green hues of the pool water.
Reaching the pools: About a 30-minute walk from the western parking lot on the black trail, then connecting to the blue trail (about 300 meters). Clear, non-freezing water, smooth stone surfaces, and a stream that still flows a week after a flood!

Important to Know: The pools fill only after floods; therefore, it is recommended to check their status in advance. You must adhere to safety rules, avoid entering streams when there is a risk of flooding, and carry a sufficient amount of water. Plan your trip to start in the morning and finish before dark. Do not approach cliffs or attempt to descend them.

Looking for more information?
The region offers a wide range of experiences: restaurants, beaches, agricultural tours, workshops, and attractions.

Visit the Dead Sea Land website: www.deadsea.co.il

(Photo: Shai Hagag, Nahal Rahaf)