Israel trail

The segment of the Israel National Trail between Kibbutz Dan and Tel Hai was a security risk because it went along dangerous roads.

The Romans were clever enough to recognize this place as a local treasure and build some structures around the spring for leisure, including a few baths, small swimming pools and a spa.

You may want to find the Trail gig spot nearest your home, or make a whole day or weekend of it, head for some location further afield and take the opportunity to spend a while in more rural spaces.

Six people, including native-born Israelis and new and veteran olim, share about their experiences on the trail.

Some people complete the trail a bit at a time over a period of years; others, like Moss and her husband and son, hike the entire trail in one go.

How could I, a middle-aged, not-particularly-learned, not-particularly-athletic mother of six find the time, the energy, the drive and the understanding to learn Talmud and hike the Israel trail?

The Israel Trail was inaugurated in 1995, the brainchild of Avraham Tamir, who was inspired by hiking the Appalachian Trail.

Throughout its 22-year history, the trail has not included Jerusalem nor crossed the Green Line into sites in Area C of the West Bank.

Haim Watzman has gathered together 24 of his touching and thought-provoking short stories.