Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael - KKL-JNF - A Holiday of Nature and Water: 6 Refreshing Hiking Trails for Shavuot

Shavuot is the perfect time to step outside, reconnect with Israel's nature, springs and streams, and celebrate the beginning of summer in the most Israeli way possible: in the great outdoors. Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) invites visitors to explore a selection of trails countrywide that combine water, shade, scenic landscapes and activities that are suitable for novice and experienced hikers alike.

Intro-cont

“Shavuot is a holiday that celebrates nature, water, and renewal,” says Eyal Ostrinsky, Chairman of KKL-JNF. “We invite the public to step outside, explore the springs and streams found across the country, and enjoy the green landscapes that KKL-JNF preserves and nurtures throughout the year.”

From the Jerusalem Hills to the Beit Guvrin region in the south, to the Jezreel Valley and the forests of the north, below is a variety of refreshing water trails worth adding to your holiday plans.

Sataf: A Journey Through Ancient Agriculture and Flowing Springs

Nestled on the slopes of the Jerusalem Hills lies one of the region’s most beautiful and unique hiking destinations: Sataf. The hike combines nature, history, ancient agriculture, and, above all, flowing water from the area’s two main springs, Ein Sataf and Ein Bikura.

Visitors can choose between two main trails. The green trail, known as the Village Trail (Shvil HaKfar), is shorter and easier, making it ideal for those looking for a more relaxed walk. The blue trail, called the Baal Trail (Shvil HaBaal), is longer and better suited for hikers who want to explore the area’s terraced landscape and ancient agricultural systems in depth. Both trails lead to the site’s central area, where springs flow through ancient rock-cut tunnels into old reservoirs and irrigation channels, passing orchards, restored agricultural terraces, and an ancient water system that still operates today.

Who is it suitable for? For experienced hikers via the blue trail, as well as for those looking for a shorter and more accessible route via the green trail.

How do you get there? There are three ways to reach Sataf:

From Tel Aviv: Take Route 1 towards Jerusalem, turn south at the Harel Interchange. Continue on Route 3965 through Mevaseret Zion toward Kibbutz Tzuba, until you reach the traffic circle at the Sataf junction. From the circle, a short, paved road leads to the upper parking area.
From Jerusalem: Take Route 395, which begins in Ein Karem and climbs up to the Sataf traffic circle.
You can also reach the Sataf traffic circle via the same road (Route 395) from the Eshtaol Junction.

Springs Trail in Aminadav Forest: A Scenic Walk Between Springs

Aminadav Forest, one of the largest and most impressive forests in the Jerusalem area, offers a scenic and peaceful trail that passes through natural springs, shady woodlands, and beautiful observation points overlooking the Jerusalem Hills. The hike combines a rich natural landscape with small water pools and ancient agricultural artifacts, including wine presses, olive presses, and the remains of early community structures.

Along the forest, scenic viewpoints overlook Nahal Sorek and Nahal Refaim, adding to the calm and relaxing atmosphere that makes the hike especially fitting for the holiday.

Who is it suitable for? Families and hikers who prefer a relaxed route. Note: If you don’t want to hike back, you will need a shuttle vehicle at the endpoint in order to return to your car.

How do you get there? To get to the Terrace Parking Area (near Horvat Se’adim):

From Jerusalem — via Hadassah Ein Kerem on Route 386, turn left at the Ora Junction toward Ora and Aminadav (Route 3877). Continue about 700 meters past the entrance to Aminadav until you reach the Terrace Parking Area.

From Tel Aviv — take Route 1 and exit at the Harel Interchange, continuing through Mevaseret and Sataf toward Ein Karem. From there, continue via Kerem Junction and Ora Junction, following the signs to Aminadav and the Terrace Parking Area.

The Springs Trail in Aminadav Forest. Photo: Ilan Shaham, KKL-JNF Photo Archive

Hidden within Maresha Forest, which is located in the Beit Guvrin region to the east of Kiryat Gat, Tzaanan Pool is a quiet and picturesque natural spot surrounded by lush greenery. Water flows through the site year-round, with the flow especially strong this year. Still relatively unknown to many visitors, it is especially suited for those looking to discover nature, peacefully and without crowds.

Rather than a long hiking trail, Tzaanan Pool is a quiet nature spot with shaded trees that is especially ideal for Shavuot, when the weather is warm but still pleasant enough to spend time outdoors.

Who is it suitable for? Couples, families, and those seeking peace and quiet.

How do you get there? Drive along Route 35. About 5 km after turning from Route 38 onto Route 35, you will see a sign for the Patrol Route (“Derech HaPatrolim”) on the right-hand side. After crossing Nahal Guvrin, continue for about 300 meters, then turn left and continue another 600 meters until you reach the Tzasnan Pool, located on the left side of the road.

Nahal HaShofet: An Accessible Trail in the Heart of Nature

Nahal HaShofet is one of northern Israel’s most beloved hiking destinations, and following extensive renovation work, it has once again become an ideal spot for families. The easy and accessible trail follows a flowing stream, passing a small waterfall and lush riverside vegetation.

The route winds through green hills and planted forests, and during spring and early summer the area is filled with colorful wildflowers, including windflowers, sowbreads, and other native plants. Along the trail, visitors can also discover historical remains, including an ancient flour mill that provides a window into the area’s local history.

One of Nahal HaShofet’s greatest advantages is its accessibility. The well-maintained and comfortable trail allows families with strollers, as well as visitors using wheelchairs, to fully enjoy the nature, water, and shaded surroundings.

Who is it suitable for? Families, strollers, and hikers looking for an especially accessible trail.

How do you get there? The entrance to Ramat Menashe Park is located on Route 66, between Hazorea and the turnoff to Route 6953. A large brown sign points toward Ramat Menashe Park; from there, continue following the signs to Nahal HaShofet.

Nahal HaShofet. Photo: Alex Kolomoisky, KKL-JNF Photo Archive

The Jordan Park: Nature, Water, and Outdoor Experiences for the Whole Family

Located near the Lake Kinneret (Sea of Galilee), the Jordan Park (Park HaYarden) is one of northern Israel’s largest and most family-friendly nature destinations. The expansive park offers a mix of walking and cycling trails, flowing water, lush greenery, and shaded picnic areas along the Jordan River.

In addition to its natural beauty, the park is home to historical sites such as ancient flour mills and aqueducts, as well as picnic tables and recreation areas. During the summer, the shade provided by the riverside trees and the opportunity to cool off in the water make it an especially pleasant destination for families.

Visitors who want to turn their visit into a short nature getaway can stay overnightat the park’s organized campground, which includes restrooms, showers, and a variety of accommodation options.

Who is it suitable for? Families, groups, and camping enthusiasts.

How do you get there?

From Tiberias — drive north along the Sea of Galilee on Route 87, cross the Jordan River at the Arik Bridge, and continue for about 3 km to the Beit Tsaida Junction. From there, continue north for another 2 km on Route 888 and turn west, following the signs to Jordan Park.You can also reach the Beit Tsaida Junction via Route 92 (the eastern Kinneret road).

From the north — cross the Jordan River at the Bnot Yaakov Bridge (Route 91) and continue south via the Beit HaMekhes Junction on Route 888 until you reach Jordan Park.

Jordan Park. Photo: KKL-JNF Photo Archive

Ein Jezreel: A Spring in the Heart of Jezreel Valley

Located in the heart of the Jezreel Valley’s open fields, beneath a large eucalyptus grove, Ein Jezreel (also spelled as Yizreel, Yizrael or Izra’el) is a peaceful spring that flows into a clear and refreshing pool.

The road leading to the spring passes through cultivated fields, orchards, and old agricultural structures, reflecting the deep connection between the valley’s landscape, water sources, and agriculture. Part of the site’s charm lies in its simplicity: water springs, trees, open scenery, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Who is it suitable for? Ein Yizrael is especially suited for those not looking for a long hike, but rather a pleasant spot to cool off along the way or enjoy a light holiday outing.

How do you get there? From Jezreel Junction, drive east on Route 675. About 1 km after the turnoff to the Gilboa Scenic Road (between kilometer markers 11–12), carefully turn left onto a dirt road. Continue for about 1 km until you reach Ein Yizrael.

Ein Jezreel. Photo: Pnina Ceizler, KKL-JNF

A Final Tip Before Heading Out

KKL-JNF’s water trails offer everything needed for a perfect Israeli Shavuot outing: green landscapes, cool water, pleasant shade, and a chance to reconnect with nature.

Whether you choose a mountain hike at the Sataf, a peaceful walk through Aminadav Forest, an accessible trail along Nahal HaShofet, or camping at Jordan Park, it is recommended to come with comfortable walking shoes, drinking water, a hat, and a garbage bag to collect your rubbish. Most importantly, enjoy the outdoors.