A highly recommended hike, though also heart-wrenching due to the danger facing the area from neglect, pollution, and advanced development plans.

We began the tour at the Carmel Tunnels offices near the Check Post. This site has amazing potential for a climbing complex thanks to the massive concrete bridge pillars. We toured several springs in the area.

We passed through the swamp area, which is unimpressive in summer, but according to Arik, it’s well worth visiting in winter when it comes to life. Along the stream—which this year has a flow rate similar to the major streams of the Upper Galilee—we saw an impressive variety of riparian vegetation and wildlife, including the nutria, an invasive species. The highlight was discovered at the end: a small spring with a large pool beside it and a bridge, where locals are raising ornamental fish — giant carp.