Tel Dan Nature Reserve

Tel Dan Nature Reserve is a nature reserve and archaeological site in the northernmost part of the Hula Valley, at the foot of Mount Hermon. The site preserves the remains of the ancient Canaanite and Israelite city of Dan, one of the most important biblical sites in Israel. The Dan River, one of the main sources of the Jordan River, flows through the reserve, creating a lush green oasis.

The archaeological site includes the remains of a massive Canaanite gate (possibly from the time of Abraham), an Israelite high place (bamah), and fortifications from various periods. The nature trails wind through dense riparian forest along the river. The climate is warm in summer and cool in winter. Spring is the most beautiful season with wildflowers and full-flowing streams.

By Plane

Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) is approximately 175 km south. Haifa Airport (HFA) is about 115 km southwest.

By Train

There is no train station nearby. The nearest is Karmiel (about 65 km south).

By Car / Road

From Kiryat Shmona: approximately 20 km (25 min) north on Route 99. From Metula: approximately 15 km (20 min). From Katzrin: approximately 30 km (30 min). From Rosh Pinna: approximately 40 km (40 min). A car is the best way to reach the reserve.

Well-maintained walking trails loop through the reserve. Allow 1.5–3 hours for a full visit. The trails are mostly flat and accessible.

• Canaanite Gate — A massive mud-brick gate from the Middle Bronze Age (possibly 18th century BCE), one of the oldest standing arch structures in the world.

• Israelite High Place (Bamah) — A raised platform from the 10th–8th century BCE, where the biblical city of Dan conducted worship.

• Abraham's Gate — The restored Canaanite gate, nicknamed for its traditional association with the period of the patriarchs.

• The Dan River — One of the three sources of the Jordan River, flowing through lush forest.

• Nature trails — Paths through dense vegetation along the river, including a "magical forest" section with towering trees.

• Walk the circular trail through the archaeological site and nature reserve

• Visit the Canaanite Gate and Israelite high place

• Enjoy the river and forest walks

• Birdwatch in the riparian habitat

• Photography of the ancient ruins and natural landscape

A small snack bar at the entrance. Pack a picnic for the trails. Nearest full restaurants are in Kiryat Shmona (20 km).

The entrance snack bar has drinks. Bring water for longer walks.

• No accommodation at the reserve.
• Kibbutz Dan (adjacent) has guest accommodations.
• Kiryat Shmona (20 km) has basic options.
• Kibbutz guesthouses in the area from ₪300.

The visitor center at the entrance sells maps, guides, and refreshments.

• Banias (Hermon Stream) (10 km, 15 min) — Waterfalls and archaeological site
• Hula Valley Nature Reserve (20 km, 25 min) — Birdwatching
• Metula (15 km, 20 min) — Israel's northernmost town
• Kiryat Shmona (20 km, 25 min) — Urban center
• Mount Hermon (30 km, 35 min) — Skiing in winter