The Jerusalem Trail is an optional addition to the Israel National Trail which passes through many points in Jerusalem and its outskirts.
It combines cultural and historical places with national parks around Jerusalem.
Along the trail yous many museums, the Knesset, the City of David, Mahane Yehuda Market, Sataf, and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
The Jerusalem Trail opened to the public in 2006, and can be extended to a full loop by following National Trail marks and is marked with a gold line between two blue lines.
Unlike other parts of the Israel National Trail, this section has access to public transportation and you can stay overnight in one of the dozens of hostels and hotels in the city.
The trail is 42 kilometre (or 26 mile) long and takes an average of two days to complete.
Tips
- The urban parts of the trails aren’t well marked and are difficult to rely on. So, use a map and a detailed description of the route. Smartphones can be helpful.
- Since the route is not well marked, it is best to review it mapped out before you begin your tip.
- Eating street food helps keep with the feel of the trail. Mahane Yehudah is a great place to do that.
- Even though you’re in the city it’s good to pack your own lunch rather than constantly dining out.
- Staying at hostels like hikers and backpackers, allows you to meet tourists from around the world. Just keep in mind you may be expected to do your own dishes.
- Some of the sites on the Jerusalem Trail route are not open to the public all year round and some have specific visiting hours.
- Entrance to some of the sites involves the payment of an entrance fee.
- The summer is not an ideal time to do the hike because it gets very hot. Likewise, the middle of January to the middle of February is going to be the coldest time of the year.