The Naftali Mountains, in view at the end of the Black Canyon trail, are a beautiful expanse named after one of Jacob's sons, Naphtali, from the Old Testament. Naphtali is associated with swiftness and eloquence, reflecting perhaps the striking and breathtaking views the mountains offer.
Two interesting facts about Naphtali are: firstly, in the biblical account, he is the son of Jacob and Bilhah, Rachel's maidservant. Secondly, the Tribe of Naphtali, his descendants, were known for their courage and prowess in war, as noted in the Bible.
The Syrian-African Rift, also known as the Great Rift Valley, is a continuous geographic trench running from Lebanon's Beqaa Valley in Asia to Mozambique in Southeastern Africa. Named for its span across the Syrian and African landmasses, it's one of the most distinct features on Earth's surface, visible even from space. Created by tectonic activity over millions of years, this rift is an impressive example of plate tectonics' power and influence on the landscape. Its various segments have formed numerous valleys, mountains, and bodies of water, contributing to the area's rich biodiversity.
The Black Canyon trail on the Golan Heights offers a fascinating and multifaceted journey that will exhilarate any adventure seeker. From the moment you set foot on this path, you're drawn into a geological marvel that unfolds like an epic saga written by nature itself.
Your journey starts with the first waterfall, a thrilling abseil down its 28 meters, where the impressive might of water carving through basalt is vividly evident. You navigate through sections where the river disappears, the water sneakily flowing beneath an array of large rocks, creating an illusion of a vanishing stream.
You encounter pools and seasonal puddles interspersed with steep climbs and descents, where iron ropes help ensure your safe passage. The fertile yet loose basalt soil underfoot is a constant reminder of the dynamic geology of this region.
Before approaching the third waterfall, you must traverse a body of water that stands like a gatekeeper to real joy: an exhilarating and beautiful descent down the waterfall. Yet the adventure does not end here. To reach the shore, you must swim through a lengthy pool at the waterfall's base, adding another stroke of excitement to your adventure.
Your exit from the canyon is a steep uphill climb that tests your endurance. It provides a beautiful respite under the shade of large trees and continues with a challenging ascend on high stone steps. As you emerge from the canyon, you encounter a crossroad of trails offering various choices for continuing your exploration.
As you rest, you get a breathtaking view of the distant Naftali Mountains, contrasting beautifully with the Golan Heights and marking the opposite bank of the majestic Syrian-African Rift. This scene is a fitting finale to an unforgettable journey through a route that's as much about the beauty of our earth as it is about the thrill of canyoning.
This trail, with its wild beauty and physical challenges, promises an adventure that is as enlightening as it is exhilarating. Every twist and turn, every ascent and descent, and every splash of water paints a vivid picture of nature's power and elegance. It's an exploration that touches not just your physical being but also strikes a deep chord with your spirit. This is what awaits you on the Black Canyon trail. Are you ready to take the plunge?
Don't be afraid to get lost in new places!
