Biking in the Negev in southern Israel is becoming an increasingly popular way for Israelis and tourists alike to explore the beautiful Negev, and satisfy their passions for cycling. Over the past few years, bike trails in the Negev have been developed at an unprecedented rate, making it easy and safe for bikers of all levels of experience to enjoy the varied terrain, magnificent landscapes, and striking peace and tranquility which biking in the desert provides. As well as the trails, supporting services have been developed: bike centers from where bikes can be rented, tours planned, or guides taken, and accommodation along the trails.

Biking in Israel is a great way to see the country. Israel has a comprehensive selection of bike trails across the country, including extensive off road trails covering large areas of the country. A National Cycle Trail set to run from Metulla in the north to Eilat in the south is currently under construction, however elements are open, as are many other official trails which have been created by other organisations and individuals who love the sport.

The Ben Shemen Forest, located about mid-way between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem is home to a 32 kilometer single track mountain biking trail, one of the longest trails in the whole of Israel. The trail, which opened in late 2011, which is split into two parts, the Herzl and Anava trails, passes through the western part of the Ben Shemen Forest and continues up to Modi’in Forest across largely flat terrain. As well as the sheer beauty of the forest, along the way are historic and archaeological sites, as well as beautiful lookout spots.

Mountain biking is particularly popular at Mount Hermon with special facilities in place at Bike Park, a biking site at the Hermon Ski Resort which has three bicycle trails: a relatively easy one, for learning how to mountain bike and practicing technique; and two 4.5-kilometer downhill trails that go from the top to the bottom of the ski site and include jumps and other features. Bikers use the ski chairlifts to take them to the top of the trail. An all-day lift ticket costs NIS 135.