The information written below is a recommendation for walking tracks in the Dead Sea . It is crucial to consult with an experienced travel guide or local authorities before venturing out in the Dead Sea.
Discover the beauty of Ein Bokek
Here is a suggestion for a short hike, mostly in shallow waters. The track will get you in less than half an hour from the hectic hotel-zone to a pastoral spot in the heart of the desert. Unlike other wet-hikes around the Dead Sea area, this one is free of charge.
The track begins from the hotel-zone near the southern basin of the Dead Sea. It goes down to the broad concrete canal that was built along the opening of the Bokek Valley. The canal was made to effectively drain the powerful flash-floods, but since the latter are so scarce, it stands dry almost year-round. The canal leads under the bridge. From this point onwards you are out in the wild. Very soon the path (marked black) leads into the stream and welcomes you to march into running water under a natural canopy of Tamarisk Trees. Proper shoes (Jellyfish Sandals) are warmly recommended and can be purchased for a couple of dollars in many shops around the sea.
The path curls quickly into a steep canyon that cuts into the mountain. Within another 10 minutes, you can see the first pools. With the warm weather that governs this land nine months out of twelve throughout the year, a dip is almost a must.
From the first pool, a few stairs lead to a higher level, the climb is against running water and requires some attention. The concrete construction is a small dam that used to form a wide pool. Today it is filled up with debris. For the locals this is no wonder –the might of the flash-flood erodes a great mass of stone from the mountains and carries boulders down the otherwise dry valley. With a drop of some 1,200m from the Arad valley it actually changes the landscape in a couple of hours.
From this spot, there are a few shallow pools and small waterfalls that invite the hiker to further showers. On the way, one can enjoy the strong scent of the reeds, the beauty of the saltbush, and the Capparis formerly used by the locals to produce an aphrodisiac brew.
You can get to the springs within a short clime. After a break, one can go back to the Hotel-zone. A partially dry path is available for a quick return.
Those who look for adventures are welcome to try the long hike (6-7 hrs) from Tzuck-Tamrur to Ein Bokek. It is a real desert hike with a spectacular view that leads directly to the springs that merge with the water hike described above.
Pay attention to weather and track conditions before you begin any track in the Dead Sea.
Tagged as: Free Entrance, Good for Kids, Parking
