The Banias Nature Reserve is Back – and So Is One of Northern Israel’s Favorite Attractions
This morning (Monday), the beloved trail leading to the “Upside-Down Syrian Tank” along the Banias Stream reopened to hikers after being closed for about a year and a half due to regional conflict.
One of Israel’s Most Beautiful Trails
This trail, widely considered one of the most beautiful in the country, runs alongside clear freshwater streams, through lush woodland and striking Oriental plane trees. It offers a shaded walking route along the Banias Stream—also known as the Hermon Stream.
Ofer Shenar, Director of the Banias Nature Reserve, said: “In recent months, since we reopened the reserve, we’ve been working on restoring the trail. It had been closed since the fighting began a year and a half ago. Today, we’re happy to welcome back hikers—with restored paths, cleared trees, rebuilt steps, and new safety features.”
A Magical Trail with a Historical Touch
The trail begins at the cemetery of Kibbutz Snir and ends at the moshav (village) of Sha’ar Yashuv. The walk follows the streambed and feels like something out of a fairytale—with towering plane trees, natural turquoise pools, and the constant sound of flowing water.
The highlight of the trail is undoubtedly the Upside-Down Syrian Tank—a relic from the Six-Day War, left stuck in the stream bed after being hit and retreating from the area near Kibbutz Dan. Visitors can stand beside it and experience a rare blend of nature and history.
