Hiking in Eilat for Families and Beginners: Easy Trails Near the City
In short: The best hiking in Eilat for families and beginners is on short trails in the Eilat Mountains, in Timna Park and in the canyons close to the city. Head out early in the morning, bring plenty of water and a hat, and choose a route of one to two hours. If you would rather not drive far, you can explore the Coral Beach reserve or stroll along the promenade.
Six thirty in the morning, the air is still pleasant and the kids haven't started complaining yet. This is the best moment to head into the desert, and in Eilat it is very close.
How to Choose an Easy Trail for a Family Hike in Eilat
A family hike in Eilat doesn't have to be a challenge. A good trail for beginners meets a few simple conditions.
Short: one to two hours of walking in total, with the option to turn back halfway.
Clear: a marked trail or a well-organized site that is easy to navigate.
Interesting for kids: rocks to climb, strange shapes, a story about ancient mines.
Close to the car: so you can leave water and gear behind, and get back quickly if needed.
If your kids are small, choose a site you can reach by car and explore on a short walk. Save long trails with climbs for when they are older.
The Eilat Mountains: Desert, Colors and Viewpoints
The Eilat Mountains rise right above the city and stretch north and west of it. The rocks come in red, orange and brown, and the scenery changes around almost every bend. You will find short trails, viewpoints over the city and the gulf, and dry riverbeds that suit a relaxed walk.
Beginners should start with a viewpoint or a short trail rather than a long wadi. Always check current conditions before you set out, especially after rain. In the desert, dry streambeds can change quickly.
Timna Park: The First Choice for Families
Timna Park is north of Eilat, about a half-hour drive from the city. It is one of the easiest sites to visit with kids, because most of the sightseeing happens next to the car or on short walks.
What you can see there:
Solomon's Pillars, tall red cliffs.
The mushroom-shaped rock, which kids love to photograph.
The Arches, reached by a short walk.
Remains of ancient copper mines and rock carvings.
Official information about the site is available at Timna Park information. If you are planning a full day, it is also worth reading the KKL-JNF Timna Park page and checking opening hours and entry before you drive out.
Local tip: Arrive at Timna in the morning and start with the farther sites. By the time the heat rises, you are already on your way back to the shade.
The Red Canyon and Short Wadis
The Red Canyon is one of the classic hikes in the area. It is close to the city, with narrow red rock walls, and suits anyone who wants a canyon experience without a long route. Parts of it are suitable for school-age kids.
In some sections you need to pass between rocks or climb a little. Very young children may need an adult's hand. Check the difficulty level and current conditions in advance, and don't enter the canyon when rain is forecast in the area.
Easy Outings Without a Car: Coral Beach and the Promenade
Not every outing has to be in the desert. The Coral Beach Nature Reserve is a great place for a relaxed day in the water, with a reef close to shore. If it is your first time, read our guide to snorkeling in Eilat for beginners.
In the evening you can walk along the promenade. It is a twenty-minute stroll that also works for strollers. You will find more evening ideas in the post what to do in Eilat in the evening.
Which Hike Suits You? A Quick Comparison
Young kids (up to age 5): Timna Park on short walks, the promenade in the evening, the Coral Beach reserve.
School-age kids: Timna, the Red Canyon, a short trail in the Eilat Mountains.
Teens: a longer route in the Eilat Mountains, early in the morning and with plenty of water.
Beginners with no experience: a viewpoint or a short marked trail, with the option to turn back halfway.
A very hot day: the Coral Beach reserve or a pool, and a desert hike only in the morning.
Safety Rules: Water, Heat and an Early Start
The desert around Eilat is beautiful, but it is not forgiving. Three rules are worth remembering.
How much water should you bring?
Bring more than seems reasonable. A simple rule is one and a half to two liters per person for a short morning hike, and more when it is hot. Drink before you feel thirsty, especially the kids.
What time should you set out?
As early as possible. In summer and on very hot days, try to finish the hike before midday. You can check the forecast on the Eilat weather site. If you are wondering when to travel, read when to visit Eilat.
What if one of the kids gets tired?
Stop in the shade, drink, and give up without guilt. It is better to turn back halfway than to keep going as the heat rises. Don't split up the group, and tell someone where you are going.
Local tip: Mark your parking spot on your phone before you start the trail. Without reception, it saves a lot of searching.
What to Bring on a Hike: A Short List
Water, much more than you think you need.
A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Closed shoes with good grip, not sandals.
Salty snacks and fruit, and ready-made sandwiches.
Bandages, antiseptic and any regular medication.
A charged phone and, if possible, a power bank.
You will find a wider list for the whole vacation in what to pack for an Eilat vacation apartment.
Planning a Hiking Day When You Stay in an Apartment
An apartment has a small but important advantage: a kitchenette. You can make sandwiches, fill bottles and be out the door at seven without waiting for breakfast. Our apartments have a fridge, kettle, microwave and kitchenware, so your trail meal is ready the night before.
City Apartments Eilat is in the hotel area in the center of the city, behind the Club Hotel, a 5 to 10 minute walk from the promenade. For families with children, you can choose the 1-bedroom apartment #2 or the Garden Suite #7, both suitable for up to five guests. All the apartments are listed on the all apartments page.
The apartments have air conditioning, so after a hot hike you come back to a cool place. Parking next to the entrance is free, and the Nevi'ot Street location also has free private parking, subject to availability.
You will find more ideas for days with kids in the post what to do in Eilat with kids.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest route for a family hike in Eilat?
Timna Park is usually the easiest choice, because you can explore it on short walks next to the car. Start in the morning and bring water for everyone.
From what age can kids hike in the Eilat Mountains?
Short, easy trails also suit young children, with parents beside them. It is better to save long trails or ones with climbing for school age and up.
When is the best time to hike in Eilat?
In the early morning hours, and winter and the shoulder seasons are more comfortable than summer. On very hot days, it is worth shortening or postponing the hike.
Do you need a guide, or can you hike on your own?
At organized sites like Timna and on short, marked trails, you can hike on your own. For long or unmarked routes, it is best to join a guide.
What do you do if the day is too hot for hiking?
Switch to water. The Coral Beach reserve, a pool or the promenade in the evening are good alternatives, and the desert hike can wait until tomorrow morning.
Can I leave my belongings at the apartment after check-out?
Yes. The Nevi'ot Street location has a dedicated luggage room, and at the Tzofit complex you can leave luggage in the hallway, which has a security camera. More details in the FAQ.
Want to head out on a hike from your apartment in the morning and come back to a full fridge and air conditioning? Check availability and book direct on our website, and get 5% off automatically on direct bookings.
