First-Ever Hiking Trail Around the Sea of Galilee

The Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel is clearing a hiking/walking trail that will completely encircle the Sea of Galilee. For the first time in 3000 years, tourists will be able to walk around the entire circumference of Israel's most significant body of water. Parts of the trail will be accessible to the disabled.

(PRWEB) March 20, 2004                                    

FIRST EVER HIKING TRAIL AROUND ENTIRE SEA OF GALILEE

For the first time in 3000 years pilgrims, hikers and other visitors to Israel will soon be able to trek around the entire circumference of the Sea of Galilee on a "Round the Galilee" trail, currently being cleared, mapped out and marked by the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel (SPNI).

The 39-mile trail will cut through privately-held areas that previously prevented uninterrupted access around Israel's most historically-significant body of water. Families and casual walkers will be able to take short excursions along parts of the trail, while experienced hikers will be challenged to circle the entire lake.

At its northern end, the trail will pass the archeological site of Capernaum, the source of the Jordan River, and Kibbutz Ginnosar, home of the "Jesus boat." It will offer unparalleled views of the hills of the Galilee to the west and the foothills of the Golan Heights on the opposite shore. At the southern tip of the lake, the trail passes alongside the popular baptism site used by thousands of Christians each year.

More than 60% of the trail will be completed and open for general use by September 2004. The first 12.5 miles of the trail were initiated in October 2003. The completed trail will also include several sections that will be accessible to the physically disabled.

This March 30th, Israel's tourism minister, Benny Elon, accompanied by special guests, SPNI staff and youth groups, will dedicate a new section of the trail on the western side of the Lake near the popular Amud trail.

Information on the progress of the trail will be entered on SPNI's website at www.spni.org.il/e, along with information for individuals and corporate sponsors who wish to "adopt" sections of the trail and play an active role in their development and maintenance.