Tour: The Enchanted Forest: A Circular Trail for the Whole Family in Odem Forest

Photos: Amit Spivak, Dov Greenblat

About the Activity

The Odem Forest Nature Reserve, in the northern Golan, is named after the volcano whose soil is red—Tel al-Ahmar.

Odem Forest is a remnant of a larger, more developed forest that was last cleared approximately 100 years ago.

After the fields were abandoned and the Syrian army closed off the area, the forest regenerated north of Mount Odem. Since 1967, it has been legally protected from logging—this is how we preserve nature!

We will begin the route in a wide, open area with comfortable, shaded seating spots beneath the trees.

We will join the Golan Trail (blue, white, and green markings), which is also part of the Golan Trail (white-blue-green markings), and walk 300 meters along an ancient Roman road—a true journey through time!

We will turn right and climb to Tel Katz'aa, a volcanic mound hidden deep within the forest.

We will enter the dense, enchanting forest and descend on the other side of the mound. There, we will explore the forest and discover secret Syrian bunkers hidden at the foot of the mountain.

From there, we will return to the starting point, get into the vehicles, and drive to the Valley of Tears, where we will learn about the story of the place and its importance, as well as what “green” energy entrepreneurs are planning to build in the valley, and examine whether this is good for the environment.

Come enjoy a magical day in nature in Odem Forest—a family-friendly experience! 🌲

Important to Know

Activity area
Golan Heights

Target audience
Families, children aged 5 and over

Difficulty level
Easy

Walking duration
Easy, with a simple climb

Route length
Approximately 2.5 km

Required equipment
3 liters of water, food, a hat, sunscreen, and walking shoes

Additional information
The trip is conducted using private vehicles.

Guiding
The Golan Field School’s guiding team

Please Note

The Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel reserves the right to cancel or change the activity according to weather, security, and safety conditions, and at its sole discretion.

Children up to age 3 participate free of charge. Please indicate the number and ages of the children at checkout.

The trip will take place subject to Home Front Command instructions.