On the first day of Sukkot, September 26, 2026, a hike will take place in Upper Zevulun on the Golan Heights. Participants will walk approximately 10 km along a mountain trail, swim in pools among basalt columns, and attend a spiritual development workshop. The cost includes entry to the nature reserve, guide services, meals, and insurance.
Description (translated from Russian):
Friends, hello everyone! You asked for it, and we are heading back to the Golan Heights.
On Saturday, September 26, on the first day of the holiday of Sukkot, we await a journey through Upper Zevulun (Zavitan). It will be an action-packed day among mountain canyons, clear water, basalt cliffs, and the amazing history of the Golan.
What awaits us:
We will walk approximately 10 kilometers along a mountain trail following the Zavitan stream bed. Along the way, picturesque valleys, rock walls, and green spots by the water will open up before us.
At the Zavitan pools, we will stop to rest and swim. The water here is surrounded by unusual multifaceted basalt columns. We will learn how these natural hexagons formed and what role the volcanic past of the Golan Heights played in their creation.
At one of the most beautiful stops, we will be served Bulgarian, Sinai, and Dagestan teas, aromatic coffee, and homemade pastries. Here, we will also hold a seminar on spiritual development.
On the return journey, we will walk near the ruins of an old Syrian settlement and discuss its history and significance for this area.
The entire hike will be accompanied by stories about the nature, geology, water, history, and people of the Golan Heights.
Route Information
Distance: Approximately 10 kilometers
Difficulty Level: Moderate
The route includes rocky sections, descents, and ascents.
Participants must be prepared for prolonged walking over uneven terrain.
Participation of children must be agreed upon with the organizer in advance.
The pools are deep. Swimming is permitted only for those who are confident swimmers. There are no lifeguards at the water.
Where and When
Date: Saturday, September 26, 2026
Exact meeting time and location will be sent to registered participants.
Participation Cost
Standard price: 140 NIS
MGR Club members: 110 NIS
Soldiers and participants aged 12–18: 90 NIS
Children under 12: 30 NIS
Matmon cardholders receive a discount equivalent to the current reserve entrance fee.
Cost Includes
Entrance to the nature reserve
Accompaniment by a certified guide
Participant insurance on the route
Leadership and group sweep duties
Tea, coffee, and homemade pastries
Seminar on spiritual development
What to Bring
Three liters of water per person
A mug
Comfortable clothing
Closed shoes with good grip
Hat and sunscreen
Swimwear and towel
Personal medications
Snacks for the day
Safety
The lead hiker is a certified guide and experienced rescuer.
Both a leader and a sweeper are always present in the group. Communication between them is maintained via radio.
Before departure, we check the weather, route conditions, and the current situation in the area.
The route may be changed for the safety of participants.
Hike Rules
Alcohol and drugs are prohibited.
Instructions from the team and safety rules must be followed.
Littering, straying from authorized trails, and harming nature are forbidden.
We expect every participant to maintain a friendly and respectful attitude toward the group.
Registration is open until Thursday, September 24.
Places are limited.