The 6 Best Hikes at the Dead Sea (2026)

Updated September 2026 · 6 picks

The best hikes at the Dead Sea in 2026 are the Snake Path up Masada at dawn, Nahal David's waterfalls in Ein Gedi and the longer Nahal Arugot canyon, with Nahal Bokek as the easy free walk from the hotels. The Judean Desert drops to the lowest place on earth here, and its canyons hold freshwater springs and pools. Here are 6, from easy to demanding.

1. Masada Snake Path — Masada, east side

The classic dawn climb up Herod's desert fortress.

₪₪ Mid-rangeBest for Couples · Groups · Solo

The Snake Path zigzags up the eastern face of Masada from the visitor centre to Herod's fortress on the summit, climbing roughly 350 metres in about an hour at a steady pace.

Hikers start in the dark to reach the top for sunrise over the Dead Sea and the mountains of Jordan — one of the great sights in Israel — then explore the palaces and the siege story on the plateau.

Walk down, or take the cable car if your legs have had enough.

Good to know: Start about an hour before sunrise with a headlamp — the view from the top at dawn is the reason to do it.

Google Maps Website

2. Nahal David — Ein Gedi Nature Reserve

An easy walk to David's Waterfall past pools, ibex and hyraxes.

₪₪ Mid-rangeBest for Families · Couples · Groups

Nahal David is the most popular trail in Ein Gedi, following a spring-fed stream through a green desert oasis to David's Waterfall, with pools and smaller falls along the way.

Ibex and rock hyraxes are common, often at close range, and the lower loop is suitable for families with young children.

Fitter hikers can continue up to Dodim Cave and the ancient Chalcolithic temple above the canyon.

Good to know: Arrive at opening time — the trail fills up with groups by late morning.

Google Maps Website

3. Nahal Arugot — Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, southern entrance

A longer, quieter canyon ending at the Hidden Waterfall.

₪₪ Mid-rangeBest for Couples · Groups · Solo

Nahal Arugot is Ein Gedi's second stream, with a wider canyon, more water and fewer people than Nahal David.

The trail follows the stream to the Hidden Waterfall and a series of pools, with the Upper Pools beyond for stronger walkers. You walk through water in places.

Last entry times are strict because of the length, so start early.

Good to know: Wear shoes that can get wet — parts of the route are in the stream.

Google Maps Website

4. Nahal Bokek — Ein Bokek, behind the hotels

A free canyon walk to a small spring and waterfall, minutes from the hotels.

₪ BudgetBest for Families · Couples · Solo

Nahal Bokek is a short canyon that starts just behind the Ein Bokek hotel strip, leading between high rock walls to a small spring, pools and a trickling waterfall.

It is free, easy and about an hour there and back, making it the natural early-morning walk for anyone staying at the Dead Sea.

Longer marked routes continue up and out of the canyon for experienced hikers.

Good to know: Do it at sunrise before breakfast — you will likely have it to yourself.

Google Maps

5. Mount Sodom — Southern Dead Sea

Trails over a mountain made of salt, with canyons and "Lot's Wife".

₪ BudgetBest for Couples · Groups · Solo

Mount Sodom, at the southern end of the Dead Sea, is a ridge made largely of rock salt, eroded into canyons, caves and pillars — one of which is traditionally called Lot's Wife.

Marked trails climb onto the ridge for views over the evaporation ponds and the Jordanian mountains, and descend through salt canyons that feel like another planet.

Go in the cooler months only, and never enter salt caves without a guide.

Good to know: Walk it in the early morning — there is no shade anywhere on the ridge.

Google Maps

6. Einot Tzukim (Ein Feshkha) — Northern Dead Sea

An easy nature walk among springs, reeds and pools at the northern shore.

₪₪ Mid-rangeBest for Families · Couples

Einot Tzukim is a nature reserve of freshwater springs at the northern end of the Dead Sea, where reed beds, tamarisks and pools support birdlife and small fish.

The open section has short, flat paths and shaded pools, with guided visits into the more protected hidden reserve on some days.

It is the gentlest walk on this list and an easy stop between Jerusalem and the beaches.

Good to know: Combine with Qumran, a few minutes away, for an easy half-day.

Google Maps

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to hike at the Dead Sea?

November to March. In summer, temperatures regularly pass 40°C and several trails close early in the day or entirely during heat waves. Start at dawn in any season.

How much water should I carry?

At least three litres per person for a half-day hike, and more in summer. Dehydration is the main danger in the desert, and the park rangers enforce water rules at some trailheads.

What time does the Masada Snake Path open?

Before sunrise on most days, so hikers can reach the top for dawn. Opening times vary by season and close earlier in summer heat, so check the Nature and Parks Authority timetable before you go.

Are Ein Gedi trails suitable for children?

The lower Nahal David trail to David's Waterfall is easy, shaded in places and very popular with families. Nahal Arugot is longer, and the upper trails require more fitness.

Is flash flooding a risk?

Yes, in winter. Rain in the Judean hills can send floods through dry canyons with no local rain. Check forecasts and never enter a canyon when rain is expected.

1. Masada Snake Path — Masada, east side

2. Nahal David — Ein Gedi Nature Reserve

3. Nahal Arugot — Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, southern entrance

4. Nahal Bokek — Ein Bokek, behind the hotels

5. Mount Sodom — Southern Dead Sea

6. Einot Tzukim (Ein Feshkha) — Northern Dead Sea

Frequently asked questions

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