While many forested areas in the north were affected by fires, in Nof HaGalil, the longest scenic trail in the region was inaugurated with an investment exceeding NIS 20 million. Developed over the past year and a half by Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund in collaboration with the municipality of Nof HaGalil, this trail marks a significant milestone.

This is great news for hikers, walkers, cyclists, fitness enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike: On June 21st, the longest scenic trail in the north was officially opened in Nof HaGalil. Spanning 7 km, it winds through the Churchill Forest hilltop, offering paths for both walking and cycling.

The development of this trail, a joint initiative by KKL-JNF and the municipality of Nof HaGalil, was completed amidst the picturesque Churchill Forest hilltop, overlooking the Jezreel Valley and Mount Tabor. It was designed to provide accessible and spacious routes for walking and cycling, ensuring a safe and continuous experience for hikers and cyclists, catering to the enjoyment of residents of Nof HaGalil and all citizens of Israel.

Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund emphasized that, especially during these challenging times coping with severe war damages, including numerous forest fires throughout the north, there is even greater importance in creating green spaces in the area. Despite vast areas scorched by missile strikes from Lebanon, KKL-JNF is committed to continuing development and promoting the planting of additional forests and new hiking trails within these natural surroundings.

The trail entrance is located near the Ze’ev neighborhood in Nof HaGalil, featuring a newly developed wide parking lot with dozens of organized spaces. Moran Clandro, project manager for the municipality, explained, ‘Visitors to the trail will not only enjoy the stunning landscape but also encounter a diverse flora spread across 25,000 dunams.’ He highlighted the construction of two asphalt paths: a 2-meter-wide walking path and a 6-meter-wide cycling path, with construction costs estimated at over 20 million shekels.

Shali Ben Yishai, Director of the Northern Region of KKL-JNF, described the trail, ‘It is an extraordinary path with breathtaking landscapes in the heart of the lush forest, stretching from Ksulot Valley to Mount Devora in Churchill Forest, covering approximately 4.5 kilometers.’ He noted, ‘One of its most captivating features is the awe-inspiring scenery throughout, offering a unique tranquility and showcasing the beauty of nature as its centerpiece. This is all for the benefit of the local community and the wider community of hikers. We invite you to come and enjoy.’

Ronen Plot, Mayor of Nof HaGalil and initiator of the project, expressed gratitude to KKL-JNF for their commitment to this inspiring and complex project: ‘The new trail is a natural treasure, especially in these times. It’s a place where you can breathe clean air, disconnect from the news, and simply enjoy the bird songs and stunning views while staying fit by walking along this long and beautiful trail in the north, which is accessible, spacious, and safe.’ He added that viewpoints with seating benches have been set up along the trail and the memorial site for fallen soldiers at the forest entrance has been restored.”