The Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) on Monday invited persons with disabilities to four accessible hiking trails ahead of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities marked on Dec. 3.
The first is the accessible trail at Givat HaMoreh in the Jezreel Valley in northern Israel. The route is circular and runs about 0.8 miles, with open views toward the Jezreel Valley, Mount Gilboa and Mount Tabor.
The second is Jordan Park, located north of the Sea of Galilee. The Park is a “paradise of water, vegetation and charming hideaways, most of which are remarkably accessible,” with the aqueduct, the pool and the watermill its main attractions, the KKL-JNF said.
The Martyrs’ Forest on the western outskirts of Jerusalem was offered as the third choice for an accessible trail, which boasts one of the most moving monuments in Israel: the Scroll of Fire, a bronze sculpture created by artist and Holocaust survivor Nathan Rapaport, rising around 26 feet high and weighing over 12 tons. Inaugurated in 1971, it commemorates Jewish history from the Holocaust until the independence of the state in 1948.
A short, accessible path leads directly from the Martyrs’ Forest recreation area to the monument.
Adamit Park and Me‘arat HaKeshet (the Arch Cave) in the Western Galilee offers another accessible trail of about 0.3 miles. The Arch Cave, situated at the end of the trail, is an impressive natural phenomenon that requires no climbing or significant effort. The trail moreover offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Eastern Galilee.
“KKL-JNF continuously develops accessibility solutions, including pleasant, shaded walking paths and adapted seating areas and lookouts, and even unique bicycle trails for handcycles and tandem bikes. All of this stems from a deep belief that the right to enjoy nature is essential for every person, without exception,” said in a statement Meirav Davidian, KKL-JNF’s national accessibility coordinator.
The organization’s accessible trails were designed for visitors with disabilities, families with strollers and anyone seeking a comfortable and enjoyable walk through Israel’s landscapes.
