Ein Avdat National Park

A relatively short drive from Jerusalem, let's face it, everything in Israel is a relatively short drive away, we came to our next destination, Ein Avdat National Park. I was told that it would be a beautiful hike with plenty of great photo opportunities. Not a single person from our group mentioned that we would be climbing a completely vertical wall of a huge mountain. To a person with a fear of heights, this was a pretty big deal and probably worth mentioning.

Ein Avdat is a canyon in the negev desert with numerous springs at the southern opening. Monks lived in these caves during the Byzantine period.

Ein Avdat is part of Nahal Zin - the largest Wadi (dry riverbed created by erosion) in the Negev. This area is prone to flash floods during the rainy season.

Our hike started out easy and Yes, everyone in the group was stunned by the beauty of this area.

This is when I started to really hold on to the kids, Not an area to let them run wild.

After a while we come up to this, and our friendly guide informed us that our bus was waiting on top. I kept searching for a cable car or at least a way around this rock mountain. That's when he pointed out those little people climbing up, he said that this will be us. I tried to smile through the heart palpitations that were throbbing in my neck and not to let my kids see the terror in my eyes. the choice was to go up with the group or go back alone to the beginning of the hike. I decided to just go, take photos without looking down.

This is what the climb actually looks like. Throughout the entire time, you are protected by these walls and there are even handles for extra comfort.

Parts that are extra steep have metal stairs, or actually a ladder since it is completely vertical.

This is the breathtaking, spectacular view as we climbed up.

This is the view down. I just stuck my hand out with the camera to take this photo, I did not look down.

I understand that there are real accomplishments in life, but I felt so proud and exhilarated after doing this! It really ended up not being as horrifying as I expected. The scenery was unlike anything I have ever seen and sharing this wonderful hike with my family and close friends was a true gift. I will never forget this day.

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