About Nahal Og

Looking for adventure? Want to discover the natural beauty of Israel? Go Nahal Og! Nahal Og drains of 112 square km from the Eastern slopes of Mount Scopus, Jerusalem (800m above sea level), and down to the Dead Sea (437m below sea level); a drop of over 1,200m. Nahal Og is the northern most riverbed which drains into the Dead Sea.

Loop trail

A popular rugged hike starts near the entrance of Kibbutz Almog on a dirt road that leads to the mouth of the canyon. You begin on a westbound climb through walls of marlstone and hard limestone in canyon with erect white walls. The shade enables some vegetation. Take advantage of all the photo ops. The peak of this adventure are the 3 ladders: a set of grip struts nailed to the rocks, which enables easy and safe 7-10m climb. It is challenging but even I did it. You may need an experienced guide to tell you where to place your feet. Depending on the season and weather you may have to cross knee deep pools of water on the way. The whole hike takes about 2-3 hours. The fact that the trail is a loop is in your favour.

Tip: For those who are afraid of heights, hiking up the waterfall is much easier and far less scary. There is no entrance fee, and no facilities at the nahal.

One-way trail

There is also a one-way trail. One end is Nebi Musa and the other end is near the entrance to Kibbutz Almog.

When climbing in this area you must prepare sun screen, a hat or other protection for the head, and at least 2 litters of water. The steepness of the stream results in heavy flooding during the winter – so take care. Before you begin any hike in the Dead Sea Region, contact the local tourist authority who can advise you on weather conditions and provide an official map of the region.

What is Og?

The name of the Og Valley is Hebrew for sumac (Rhus Tripartita).

My Nahal Og Hike

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