Ein Gedi Nature Reserve Reopens Beloved Waterfall Trail After Major Flood Damage
More than a year after a powerful flood devastated parts of the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, the lower trail leading to the David Waterfall will fully reopen on Sunday. This marks the final section of the popular hiking area to be accessible again, following extensive restoration work costing approximately 7 million shekels. The flood, which occurred in May 2025, significantly altered the landscape, changing the course of the stream and the appearance of its pools, meaning visitors will encounter a somewhat different natural setting.
The lower trail of Nahal David is a favored route for a wide range of visitors, including families and older hikers. While access to the first pool was restored shortly after the flood, the path to the David Waterfall remained closed due to severe damage. The recent completion of rehabilitation efforts allows hikers to reach the waterfall once more. However, the pools are now shallower due to sediment, and while areas with flowing water will be accessible, swimming at the David Waterfall remains prohibited due to the risk of falling rocks, a restriction that predates the flood.
Michal Shomron Amihai, manager of the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve for the Israel Nature and Parks Authority, described the complex rehabilitation of the lower Nahal David section. New paths, stairs, railings, and safety infrastructure were installed, with future flood resilience in mind. The authority anticipates the return of Israeli visitors to the reserve.
The exceptional flood on May 4, 2025, caused widespread destruction across Nahal David and Nahal Arugot, with about 30 millimeters of rain falling in minutes. The torrents washed away paths, damaged bridges, and covered large areas with mud, rocks, and uprooted trees. The reserve's entrance, facilities, and protective fencing were also severely impacted. The Nature and Parks Authority undertook a large-scale cleanup and reconstruction, gradually reopening trails after safety assessments. Initially, Nahal Arugot trails reopened, followed by the Ein Gedi spring trail and the upper Nahal David sections.
In addition to trail restoration, the authority is planning a long-term ecological rehabilitation project, as the flood damaged local vegetation and irrigation systems, creating conditions favorable for invasive species. A budget of over 5 million shekels has been approved for this initiative. Eden Uliel, director of the Arava region for the authority, expressed satisfaction with the extensive work that has made the reopening possible, inviting the public back to one of Israel's most beloved nature reserves.
