Best time to visit Jerusalem

Jerusalem Trail

Take a spectacular circuit hike around all the greatest places of the Israeli capital

Best time: October–April

Jerusalem Trail
Jerusalem Trail
Jerusalem Trail
Jerusalem Trail

The Jerusalem Trail is a hiking route that connects the Israel National Trail with Jerusalem. The trail creates a circuit that can be completed as a loop. The trail is 42km in length and can be completed in two days.

Opened in 2006, the trail features many cultural and historical sites such as the Knesset (Israeli Parliament), the City of David, the Mahane Yehuda Market, Sataf, and the Hebrew University. The hike will take you through the Old City, the Kidron Valley, the Mount of Olives, Yad Vashem, and several beautiful National Parks.

The trail has irregular markings in blue/gold/blue or white/blue/white. Around half of the route is unmarked, so make sure you have maps and GPS available. Due to the extremely hot and dry climate of Jerusalem, it is not recommended to complete this trail over summer. This means the best months to hike the trail are from October to April.

Practical info

When is the best time to hike the Jerusalem Trail?

It is ideal to hike the Jerusalem Trail during the cooler months from October to April as the summer months are scorching and dry. However, the rainy winter months may make the trek challenging. The Jerusalem Trail is best experienced when the temperature is comfortably cool, and the weather is dry and clear. Show more

What are the cultural and historical sites that the Jerusalem Trail passes through?

The Jerusalem Trail is designed to give hikers a unique cultural and historical experience by winding through some of the city's significant cultural and historical gems. These points of interest include Sataf, the Knesset, the City of David, Mahane Yehuda Market, Hebrew University, the Old City, Yad Vashem, Kidron Valley, Mount of Olives, and several national parks. These sites provide an exquisite view of the city and a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage. Show more

How long does it take to complete the Jerusalem Trail?

The Jerusalem Trail stretches 42km and typically takes two days for hikers to complete. While the trek offers moderately challenging terrain with rocky pathways and steep ascents, enthusiasts must prepare for weather changes by carrying sufficient food and water for the hike's duration. Additionally, the trail can conveniently be broken down into segments, allowing hikers to choose the section they want to explore. Show more

Where can I access maps and GPS for the unmarked section of the trail?

Some sections of the Jerusalem Trail are unmarked, and hikers must carry a reliable GPS and map to navigate them successfully. The Jerusalem Trail website provides a downloadable GPX file that can be used with a GPS device or hiking app to help trekkers navigate the unmarked sections. Hikers are advised to take note of the filing system, which comes in either blue/gold/blue stripes or white/blue/white stripes. Show more

What precautions should I take while hiking the Jerusalem Trail, especially during the summer months?

Ample preparation is necessary before undertaking the Jerusalem Trail hike, especially during the summer months. The weather is usually hot and dry. In preparation for the trek, hikers should carry sturdy hiking boots, a sunhat, sunscreen, sufficient water, and food, as well as a first-aid kit. The trail has emergency call points at several locations, which trekkers can use in case of any emergencies. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin