The 10-kilometer-long trail in the Lower Galilee stretches from Mitzpe Netofa to Beit Rimon. The inauguration of this new scenic trail, held in early August, was attended by the Head of the Regional Council and representatives of KKL-JNF.
Section of the Tur’an Forest Scenic Trail. Photo: KKL-JNF staff
Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund has added another jewel to the crown of the Lower Galilee, for the enjoyment of the general public – the Tur’an Forest Scenic Trail, beginning in the east at Mitzpe Netofa and ending in the west in Kibbutz Beit Rimon. The project was carried out by KKL-JNF's northern district, and included leveling the route and paving it with asphalt.
The trail is about 10 kilometers long, winding through mature natural woodlands, and planted forests. On the way, there are breathtaking views reaching Beit Netofa and Har Ahim to the north, and Beit Keshet and the Tabor Forest in the south. At the top of the ridge is an observation tower used by KKL-JNF observers to spot forest fires. Next to the observation tower, a recreation area will be created, which will be open to the public for leisure activities as well as joint activities among the region’s local councils.
The ceremony, held in early August, was attended by the Head of the Lower Galilee Regional Council Moti Dotan and representatives of KKL-JNF, including Land Development Director Yaron Ohayon, Northern Region Director Dr. Omri Boneh, and Erez Stein, Deputy Director of the Northern Region.
"We opened a scenic trail for the benefit of the residents of the Lower Galilee and the general public so that they can delight in the beautiful nature surrounding them," said Yaron Ohayon, Director of Land Development. "It is important for KKL-JNF to continue to break new ground, pave roads and recreation areas that make it simple and easy for the public to enjoy nature.
Representatives of the KKL-JNF Northern Region and Land Development
Authority at the inauguration ceremony. Photo: KKL-JNF staff
The Director of the Northern Region at KKL-JNF, Dr. Omri Boneh, added: "The Tur’an scenic trail is a wonderful asset for the region, and I particularly recommend a visit to the area on rainy days in the winter, to see the flooding in the Beit Netofa Valley. It is an amazing sight. The area has inspired entrepreneurs to envision the construction of a planetarium or huge 150 meters-tall Menorah (candelabra) that will be visible throughout the Galilee. Now that we have completed the trail, we will revisit these initiatives."
Moti Dotan, Head of the Lower Galilee Regional Council, thanked KKL-JNF for its extensive work in the preparation of land and the paving of roads and its contribution to community building: "There are not many places as beautiful as the Tur'an scenic trail where the public can stroll and hike," said Dotan.