Rosh HaAyin Forest – Location Details
Waze: Rosh HaAyin Forest
20 minutes from Tel Aviv or Ra’anana, north of Rosh HaAyin
Entry is free – no charge
The truth is, we came to Rosh Ha’Ain forest by accident. We were in Ra’anana with a friend and were looking for an easy trip of up to 20 minutes from home, a bit to see green in the eyes and to open the Pakal Cafe. At first, we considered going to Tel Afek – a stunning nature reserve of the Nature and Parks Authority, but we saved on ticket costs and in the end went for the more free option.
Background on Rosh HaAyin Forest
Rosh HaAyin’s community forest offers a hiking trail for wildflowers, remains of an ancient settlement, seasonal blooms, fun corners for coffee and picnics, and a children’s playground.
Right on the slopes of the Samaria Mountains, in the northeastern part of Rosh Ha’Ein, there is a magical forest adjacent to the new neighborhoods of the city. The forest has picnic areas, playgrounds and pleasant and easy walking paths. A pleasant place for those looking to spend Shabbat (Saturday) walking in nature without being so far from home. Definitely provides a solution for the “green dish” that we sometimes lack.
We reached the forest, first to a cute picnic area (“in the shade of the eucalyptus” its name) and started the trail towards the wildflower trail (1km, not too long). The trail is circular and always beautiful, but especially during the flowering seasons.
Wildflower Trail
The blooms in the Rosh HaAyin forest are stunning. By the side of the path of wildflowers “decorations” cyclamens, red and white anemones, mountain tulips, beekeepers, lilies – wildflower blossoms are simply a delight for the eyes. We will go up the path to the top of the hill (about a 20-minute walk, not including selfie times on the way), to a lookout that KKL-trained. “Khorbat Deir” or “Khirbat Dvir” in Arabic, with remains of buildings, built walls and a square cistern from the Byzantine period. From there we will descend the path marked with natural rock steps (slipping after rain, be aware) towards the point where we started the route.
The whole route took us almost an hour, but an hour of fun, music on the way and a coffee pakal at the lookout at the top of the hill.
Rosh HaAyin Community Forest
So what makes a forest a community forest? The term “community forest” means community participation in forest management. The residents, the mayor and KKL-Junk are all partners in the management of the forest – from the cleaning to the tending of the trees. In 2005, in cooperation with the residents, a variety of woodland and forest tree species were planted in the Rosh Ha’Ein forest. Trees such as common carob, Atlantic Ella and many more. Since then, events have been held every year Community activities in the forest, such as Tu Bashvet celebrations (tree planting holiday) and activities with the schools in the area to cultivate the forest.
Once upon a time, the forest was the “dark” area of the city. It was full of debris and scary to walk around. Today, the forest is pleasant and accessible to everyone, is well maintained and provides a solution for green nature in the center of the country. Thanks to Rosh HaAyin, the residents and the KKL.
Remains of ancient man in Rosh HaAyin
Not far from the Rosh HaAyin forest, a cave was discovered with remains of ancient man who lived there for more than 400,000 years. In a cave that is not open to visitors, remains of tools, crockery and many animal bones were found. The discovery of the cave is the first evidence of the use of fire to roast meat for eating – the first BBQ was in Rosh HaAyin 400,000 years ago. You are invited to read more about the subject in Ynet’s article The first in BBQ
Cool idea for a fun day in nature in the center of the Israel
An idea that occurred to me – I could make a great day of formation there for groups from work. If you need to plan some kind of team building day for work, on a minimum budget with maximum interest – this is the place. If you are looking for: a place not far from the central Israel, nature, lunch, picnic style, a short route and a light touch of history, this is the place. Anyone who is interested would be happy to help develop an idea 🙂
Some tips before getting to Rosh HaAyin forest
- Beware of potholes and obstacles – pay attention to where you step.
- Parents of Babies, the wildflower trail is not accessible to strollers.
- The best seasons to visit are spring and winter according to the wildflower blooms, but always green there
- Good for a half day trip
- The picnic area is relatively tiny and fills up quickly during the holidays, so it is recommended to stay early.
