'It's all about drinking something cold in the heart of the desert...': A family trip to the Euphrates River

The guides at the Ofra Field School of the Society for the Protection of Nature recommend a family trip to the Euphrates River, the perfect place to hike for those looking for stunning scenery, fresh air, and clear water.

Oral Steinbaum, a guidance coordinator at the Ofra Field School of the Society for the Protection of Nature, says about it: "Near Jerusalem, there is a beautiful stream that flows all year round. You can come at any time and see the beautiful flow in the desert bed, the unique vegetation, and if you are quiet enough - maybe you can see the animals that come to drink from the water."

What do we do?

The Euphrates River, or by its Arabic name Wadi Kelt, flows for many kilometers - from north Jerusalem (Neve Yaakov) to the Jordan River and the Dead Sea. Along its length there are three main springs - Ein Kelt, Ein Prat and Ein Mabua.

These three springs provide a lot of water for the stream's flow. In addition, the stream drains a lot of floodwater in the winter. The route begins with a descent to the stream, which is marked with green trail markings. After the descent, you need to turn left on the blue trail markings. The route ends at the Pipes / Ein Maboa parking lot.

You can come and walk in the stream, bathe in the pleasant water and enjoy the peace.

For those interested, you can also embark on a variety of trails along the stream.

Important highlights -

• It is important to check before the trip whether it is possible to reach the place without a security permit. Ein Prat and Ein Maboa are nature reserves, so there is no problem arriving without prior coordination.

• Because the route is not circular, vehicles must be jumped at the beginning.

• Required equipment - 3 liters of water per person, closed shoes and waterproof shoes, hat and sunscreen.

Where do we start?

Register with Waze: Views of the Pratt - Shacharit Observatory

If you are coming from the direction of Jerusalem, drive on Highway 1 to the Kfar Adumim junction, turn left and enter the settlement of Kfar Adumim, cross it to the settlement of Ein Prat.

Difficulty level: Medium

intended: Cult enthusiasts.

Recommended period: Suitable for winter, autumn and spring (may be a little hot in summer)

accessibility: The route is not accessible.

Photos: Arvan Golan and Maayan Tal, Society for the Protection of Nature 

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