The Enchanted Forest: A Circular Trail for the Whole Family in Odem Forest
A circular family hike in Odem Forest will take place on October 31 and November 28, 2026, in the Golan Heights. The route includes nature, a Roman road, and Syrian bunkers.
Photographs: Amit Spivak, Dov Greenblat
About the Activity
The Odem Forest Nature Reserve, in the northern Golan, is named after the volcano whose soil is red—the Tel Al Ahmar.
Odem Forest is a remnant of a larger, more developed forest that was last cleared about 100 years ago.
After the fields were abandoned and the Syrian army closed off the area, the forest regenerated north of Mount Odem. Since 1967, it has been legally protected from logging—this is how we preserve nature!
We will begin the route in a wide, open area with comfortable, shaded seating beneath the trees.
We will join the Golan Trail (blue, white, and green markings), which is also part of the Golan Trail (white-blue-green markings), and walk 300 meters along an ancient Roman road—a true journey through time!
We will turn right and ascend Tel Katz'aa, a volcanic hill hidden deep within the forest.
We will enter the dense, enchanting forest and descend on the other side of the hill, where we will explore the forest and discover secret Syrian bunkers hidden at the foot of the mountain.
From there, we will return to the starting point, get into our vehicles, and drive to the Valley of Tears. There, we will learn about the site’s story and importance, as well as what “green” energy developers are planning to build in the valley, and consider whether this is good for the environment.
Come enjoy a magical day in nature in Odem Forest—a wonderful experience for the whole family! 🌲
Important Information
Activity area:
Golan Heights
Target audience:
Families, children aged 5 and up
Difficulty level:
Easy
Walking duration:
Easy, with a simple climb
Route length:
Approximately 2.5 km
Required equipment:
3 liters of water, food, a hat, sunscreen, walking shoes
Additional Information
The trip is conducted using private vehicles.
Guidance:
The Golan Field School guiding team
Please Note
The Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel reserves the right to cancel or modify the activity according to weather, security, and safety conditions, and at its sole discretion.
Children up to age 3 enter free of charge. Please indicate the number and ages of the children at checkout.
The trip will take place subject to the Home Front Command’s instructions.
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