Skip to main content
Mr Trip Buddy

Golan Trail

Photo: Ori~, Attribution via Wikimedia Commons

The Golan Trail (Hebrew Shvil HaGolan שביל הגולן) crosses the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights, from Mount Hermon in the very north of the territory, to above the Sea of Galilee at its south. It's a hiking trail, most of which is also fit for cycling and horseback riding. The trail is 120 km in length and usually takes 5-7 days, but since its path is pretty accessible to cars and by public transport, it's also possible to make a shorter hike by picking individual sections.

The trail isn't particularly difficult, but it does have a few rough ascents and descents. It's especially good during spring, when the convenient weather makes it easier and the blooming flowers and green fields make for fantastic scenery. Autumn is also convenient in terms of weather. It's also possible during summer and winter, though heatwaves or rains definitely make it a less savory experience.

The Golan Tourism Association put some effort in making the trail experience more accessible and convenient, so it now has several campsites and information stations. As of January 2015, there are information stations along the entire trail. Also, a few drinking water taps have been installed along the route. Also note that the said campsites as of yet have only a large clearing and some wind shelters, with no running water or any amenities.

UnderstandThe Golan Heights are mostly flat, but sloping southwards; that is, a traveler moving north to south would find an easy downward slope with almost no steep climbs.
PrepareIts course has changed several times since then, making old printed maps and old online descriptions unreliable in places.
Get inThe route can be walked in either direction. This itinerary describes it north to south, beginning on Mount Hermon and ending at Ein Tewfik above the Sea of Galilee.
WalkFollow the blue, white and green Golan Trail waymarks. Older descriptions and surviving paint marks may refer to previous alignments, particularly around Nimrod and Mount Bental.
Stay safeMinefields are the most distinctive hazard on the Golan Trail. Never cross fences or mine-warning signs, and do not leave marked routes in restricted areas.
Go nextAt the northern end, hikers can connect to the Israel National Trail, which ends at the northern Hula Valley without entering the Golan Heights.

Sources and licences

Improve this guide on Wikivoyage