HaMasrek Nature Reserve is a narrow, comb-shaped ridge of green hills northwest of Jerusalem, offering short hiking trails, wildflowers in spring, and views of the Jerusalem Corridor. The reserve’s name comes from the Hebrew word for “comb” (masrek), describing the shape of the parallel ridges and valleys that form the landscape.
Trails
The reserve offers several short to moderate hiking trails through Mediterranean scrubland, with wild olive trees, carob, pistachio, and rock roses. In spring (February-April), the hillsides are covered with wildflowers: anemones, cyclamen, lupines, and orchids. The trails are well marked and suitable for families, and the proximity to Jerusalem (about 20 minutes by car) makes HaMasrek a convenient escape from the city for a morning walk in nature.
The View
The ridge tops offer views of the Jerusalem Corridor, the area of intense fighting during the 1948 War of Independence. The Castel is visible to the east, and the road from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem winds through the valley below. Understanding the terrain from this viewpoint explains why the battle for the corridor was so difficult: every hilltop commanded the road, and every convoy was exposed to fire from the ridges above.
Visit with Hoshen Tours
HaMasrek is a nature break near Jerusalem. Hoshen Tours includes it for groups who want a short hike with wildflowers and views.