Trail Overview:
Commencing from the northern edge of Hevron Street, the trail is marked with blue markers to guide you. Roughly 1 kilometer into the hike, the trail gracefully descends to the stream, revealing four wells thoughtfully carved at brief intervals. As you proceed, the trail gradually veers from the stream, briefly approaching a fifth well, and ultimately leads to the Rahamim Reservoir. To complete this circular trail, return via Nahal Hesed, to the eastern side of Arad Park.
Choose Your Route:
Opt for a light hike by reaching the first well and returning, covering just over 2 kilometers.
After encountering the fourth well, the marked trail crosses the stream and ascends the eastern bank. Shortly after this ascent, you will come across a road leading south, which takes you back to the starting point, completing a circular route of 4.5 kilometers.
For a more detailed route description, see below.
Detailed Route:
Commencing from the northern edge of Hevron Street, the trail is marked with blue markers to guide you. After 220 meters, the path diverges in two directions. Stay straight along the marked trail, ascending a mild hill, descending into a valley that gradually transforms into a picturesque canyon flanked by rocky walls.
Descend 230 meters to reach the first well. A clear path leads to this well, crafted from a channel of rock stones. Approximately 250 meters further, you will encounter two more closely spaced wells.
The first well water supply is via a runoff channel on the western bank, while the second well sourced floodwaters from the stream itself. These waters were channeled by a dam that was eventually destroyed by a flood, leaving behind remnants. It is believed this flood opened a new course of water to the left.
Many of the stream’s ascents are currently nonfunctional, having succumbed to water erosion and losing their original purpose.
Approximately 180 meters further along the route, you will discover an additional well will.
Years ago, the Arad rescue unit conducted exercises where members descended into all four wells, each with a depth of 6-7 meters. These members captured images of the well construction process from the past. All wells were dug in a similar manner, with a supporting wall. Water was drawn from the well’s opening using a bucket attached to a rope.
Upon reaching the fourth well, the trail veers to the right. After approximately 400 meters, the trail enters a parallel eastern channel. Here, a well was dug directly within the stream, reflecting an ongoing silting process. From this point, the trail turns northward once again, leading to Nahal Dumiya and ultimately the Rahamim Reservoir.
The Rahamim Reservoir was constructed along the expansive Nahal Dumiya, situated at the stream’s apex. The reservoir is designed to rapidly capture and store powerful floodwaters, underscoring its vital significance in water control. Despite its age, the reservoir’s walls remain steadfast, enduring the test of time. The water gradually seeps into the ground over several weeks, nurturing a lush growth of thick reeds, in the area.
The concentration of these artificial water sources underscores the region’s significant water demand, likely influenced by nearby major roads.
Trail information and insights are provided with courtesy from Dov Puniyo, a devoted resident of Arad who has a deep appreciation for the local landscape and the desert.
