Mashash Cliff

Metzuk Mashash (Mashash Cliff) is in a reserve in the Judean Desert, west of Metzukei Dragot and above Nahal Darga. It is bolted along its whole length with Israel Nature and Parks Authority chemical bolts, so many rappel lines can run side by side.

The rappel starts on a slab and soon turns mostly overhanging. The stations sit a little back from the edge, so the rope has to cover that distance too. After the rappel there is a short, easy scramble back up.

A 4x4 can drive the jeep track right to the cliff with no walking. On foot you walk the jeep track there and back, which makes for a long day that depends heavily on the heat. The cliff looks out over the Dead Sea and the Judean Desert hills, and ibex are sometimes seen.

Set Waze to 'מצוקי דרגות' (Metzukei Dragot) and continue west on the green-marked jeep track. At the split with the blue trail stay on the green, until the reserve sign at the cliff on the left of the track. By 4x4 the drive is easy; on foot it is a long walk along the jeep track.

A 4x4 parks by the reserve sign at the cliff. Ordinary cars stay in the Metzukei Dragot area.

On days with flash flood risk or heat stress, the site is off limits. The cliff is exposed to the sun with no shade in the hot hours. Most of the rappel is overhanging, so rappellers need good control of the descent.

פתוח כל השנה. בקיץ מומלץ בשעות הבוקר המוקדמות בגלל החום במדבר. בחורף יש להימנע בזמן התרעות שיטפון.

Suits beginners and families arriving by 4x4, and groups that want a wide wall with room for many lines. In summer arrive early in the morning. When it warms up, bring a shade tarp. By 4x4 you can continue toward Tekoa and add a viewpoint over Nahal Darga.

Two medium-length ropes, long enough to cover the distance from the bolts to the edge. A helmet and harness for each participant, and plenty of water.