Length: Loop trail; 1.5 km; 30 min for grown ups/2 hours with kids
Mode of Transport: Not stroller friendly; yes to dogs; wear the baby
Why Go? Cause it's the only way you'll get to Europe this year
Toilets? Yes!
Entrance Fee? Totally free, no reservation needed
What to Bring: Water, cash to buy Druze food, warm clothes in the winter
Well, you ain't getting to the real Switzerland anytime soon, but with a curvy ride to Mt. Carmel, you can pretend that you did. I love this area - it's green, lush, and there are so many great trails. Put חניון יום - שוויצריה הקטנה, Haifa into Google Maps, and enjoy a real toilet seat before you start your hike. There are tons of picnic benches and open areas to have breakfast as well. Plus, if you go on the weekend, bring cash so you can buy some homemade Druzey food - stuffed cabbage, grape leaves, pita with za'atar: de-lish!
We did the hike with 5 year old's on foot and 2 year old's on our backs...plus the lil' ones walked a good chunk. Start off on the red trail where things are smooth sailing and easy. After the crazy view of the mountain (you'll know when you get there) turn left onto the green trail and let the climbing begin. Don't miss the secret spot. On your right look for signs to הצינור or "the tube", marked by the two white lines with nothing in the middle. This signage is trail marking for "point of interest, go check it out, and then come on back". The POI looks like a giant stone half-pipe and is a bit slippery. Be careful, but have a peek.
From here, it's a few minutes till you are back at the beginning. If you're jonesin' for some more hikeage, check out the blue trail nearby. It's an easy half meter trek out to an incredible view point and back again. Well worth the effort.
We went in on a chilly day in December and it was pretty chilly with the winds of the Carmel. Don't be lazy - bring the extra layer in the winter. This is a wonderful summer option, since this area is always a few degrees cooler than the rest of the country plus there's plenty of shade.
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