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Guide name : Uri Ohayon, City of David
Sites: : City of David National Park , Kidron Valley , Mount of Olives
The duration of the track : 3 hours
Is the track circular? No
Difficulty : Easy to moderate
Accessibility : Not accessible, the trail includes steps
The backyard of Jerusalem: from Mount Scopus, through the Kidron Valley, to Ancient Jerusalem. One of the most unique sections of the Jerusalem Trail, this route combines nature, archaeology, history, and captivating stories.
Mount Scopus, Hadassah Lampel Street
Tzurim Valley National Park
Historical monuments in the Kidron Valley
City of David National Park
The journey begins at a magical viewpoint on Mount Scopus, offering a full panoramic view of Jerusalem’s grandeur. From the northeast, above the peak, you’ll witness breathtaking vistas of the city. The trail is marked with blue-and-white signs, ensuring easy navigation. This observation point provides a spectacular perspective of the Old City and its surroundings.
Next, we will descend the stairs to the Tzurim Valley National Park. Visitors can (for a fee) join the archaeological rubble sifting project and uncover remarkable findings. In this project, centuries-old soil undergoes meticulous sifting, revealing historical treasures. Each participant can personally take part in this process and experience the ongoing discovery of ancient Jerusalem. The activity lasts about 1.5 hours and provides a captivating glimpse into the past. Currently, it is only open to groups with prior reservation.
The trail continues along a winding path lined with ancient olive trees. After crossing Ben Adiya Street, descend into the Kidron Valley—the historic eastern boundary of Jerusalem. To the right, you’ll see Wadi Joz (also known as the Valley of Jehoshaphat), and to the left, the Mount Scopus-Mount of Olives Ridge, including the Mormon University and the neighborhoods of At-Tur and Beit Orot. The trail is adorned with pomegranate, olive, and prickly pear trees.
The path ascends slightly eastward to the Orson Hyde Memorial Garden. While the trail doesn’t pass through the garden, it’s a highly recommended stop. From here, enjoy a view of the Temple Mount and its eastern wall, featuring the iconic Golden Gate (Gate of Mercy), a symbol of prayer and longing. To the right of the Temple Mount is the Lion’s Gate, through which paratroopers entered the Old City during the Six-Day War.
The trail continues southward, connecting to a road where caution is required due to vehicle traffic from both directions. Cross at the Jericho Road intersection to reach the Mount of Olives Information Center, located at the edge of the ancient Jewish cemetery, which has been a burial site for over 3,800 years. The Center provides a rest area and facilities for visitors.
The trail’s final segment showcases magnificent ancient monuments dating back thousands of years: Absalom’s Pillar, the Tomb of Zechariah, and the Tomb of the Sons of Hezir. This area witnessed the dramatic escape of King David from his son Absalom—a pivotal moment in Jerusalem’s history.
From here, ascend the steps and turn left onto the Ophel Road, until arriving at the City of David Visitors Center. Here, you can join guided tours and explore Hezekiah’s Tunnel.
There is ample parking at the entrance to the site – Tzurim Valley National Park, located at the foot of the Hebrew University. Navigate via Google Maps.
Additional parking is available at 10 Hadassah Lampel Street (Beit Orot Parking Lot). Park at the entrance and descend the stairs to the right (approximately a 10-minute walk). Directional signs to Tzurim Valley are posted at the location.
Access to the site involves descending a long staircase and is not accessible for strollers.
Navigate using Google Maps.
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