Background

Tel Dan Nature Reserve: Where History and Nature Converge

Explore lush landscapes and ancient ruins at Tel Dan Nature Reserve, where the Jordan River begins its journey.

4.7

Tel Dan Nature Reserve is a lush, green paradise fed by the Dan River, one of the primary sources of the Jordan River. Explore ancient ruins, including a Canaanite gate and Israelite-era cultic center, while enjoying scenic hikes and wading in cool waters.

A brief summary to Tel Dan Nature Reserve

  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain, especially if planning to hike the longer trails.
  • Bring water and snacks, especially during hot weather, as there are limited options within the reserve.
  • Take advantage of the wading pool to cool off, but remember that entering the water is prohibited elsewhere in the reserve.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the reserve's trails and archaeological sites.
  • Check the Israel Nature and Parks Authority website for updated hours and to book your visit in advance.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kiryat Shmona, take a bus along Road 99 towards Mas'adeh. The closest bus stop is the Tel Dan Intersection, approximately 1.7 km (a 21-minute walk) from the reserve entrance. Buses run approximately every 2 hours. A single bus fare from Kiryat Shmona to Tel Dan costs around ₪10-₪15.

  • Walking

    From Kibbutz Dan, it's approximately a 30-minute walk to the Tel Dan Nature Reserve. Follow the signs leading to the reserve entrance. The walk is relatively straightforward.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Kiryat Shmona. A taxi ride from Kiryat Shmona to Tel Dan Nature Reserve will cost approximately ₪80-₪120, depending on traffic and the time of day.

Unlock the Best of Tel Dan Nature Reserve

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Tel Dan Nature Reserve

Tel Dan Nature Reserve is a captivating blend of natural beauty and ancient history, located in the northern Galilee region of Israel, near the Lebanese border. This half-square-kilometer reserve is fed by the Dan River, the largest and most important of the Jordan River's sources, which gushes forth from underground springs at a rate of 8 cubic meters per second. The cool, clear water originates from melting snow on Mount Hermon, creating a refreshing oasis even in the heat of summer. The reserve boasts not only stunning natural features but also significant archaeological remains. Tel Dan was once a major city inhabited by Canaanites and Israelites, known as Laish in Canaanite times. Excavations have revealed impressive finds, including a 4,000-year-old Canaanite gate, considered the oldest complete arch in the world. Visitors can also explore the remnants of an Israelite-era cultic center established by King Jeroboam, complete with a high place and possible golden calf site. A stone inscription found nearby, dedicated to the 'God of Dan,' further confirms the site's historical importance. The reserve offers several hiking trails, including an accessible path for wheelchairs and strollers. The trails wind through dense vegetation, alongside the rushing waters of the Dan River, and past the remains of an old flour mill. The longest route combines antiquities with exquisite natural sights. A highlight for many visitors is the wading pool, the only designated area where you can cool off your feet in the refreshing water. Keep an eye out for the diverse flora and fauna, including the Indian crested porcupine and the endangered fire salamander. Tel Dan's strategic location has made it a site of historical significance for millennia. Following the War of Independence, a military post was established on the tel to protect Kibbutz Dan and the Dan Springs. Today, Tel Dan Nature Reserve offers a peaceful escape where visitors can immerse themselves in nature and explore the fascinating history of this ancient land.

Popular Experiences near Tel Dan Nature Reserve

Popular Hotels near Tel Dan Nature Reserve

Select Currency