Mivtzar Stream

Nahal Mivtzar drops from the Masada area to the Dead Sea, outside any reserve. The route starts with a series of bolted slab drops that grow longer, and ends with a giant drop.

The last drop can be split: a first rappel on a slab to an intermediate station, a changeover, and a second, overhanging rappel to the floor. This is the technical part of the day, and it calls for confident changeovers and rope management.

Access is the same as for the neighbouring Masada canyons: from the western parking north on the Israel National Trail to the head of the canyon, or from the eastern parking up the Runner's Path or by cable car. At the end you leave the bed for the red trail to the parking, or climb the Runner's Path.

From Masada's western parking walk north on the Israel National Trail to the canyon's incision and drop into the bed. You can also park at the eastern lot and go up the Runner's Path or by cable car, then continue on the Israel Trail. A car shuttle is possible, but the drive between the two sides is very long. The exit is on the red trail to the parking, or up the Runner's Path.

Masada's western parking or its eastern parking. The cable car on the eastern side only starts running in the morning.

Do not rappel on very hot or rainy days; flash flood risk is high. The giant drop needs a changeover mid-wall, so the whole team must be competent at it before setting out. Take care on the scree descents. Shade is scarce, mostly in the early morning.

שעות צל: שעות הבוקר המוקדמות. מים: לקחת הרבה מים לטיול

For advanced rappellers experienced with long rappels and changeovers. The season is winter, autumn and spring. Start early and carry plenty of water. Masada is close by and easy to combine.

Two long ropes, enough to do the giant drop in two parts, and leave-behind gear for the stations. A helmet, harness and descender for each rappeller.