The best cycling routes around Jericho

Jericho offers a selection of over 15 touring cycling routes, catering to various preferences. These routes traverse diverse landscapes, from fertile valleys to stark desert environments.

You'll experience a unique blend of landscapes. Routes often take you through the fertile Jordan Valley with its extensive date palm groves and agricultural fields, contrasting sharply with the stark beauty of the Judean Desert, featuring rolling hills and dramatic cliffs. Jericho is also known for its lush palm groves and natural springs, providing verdant oases.

Yes, Jericho is rich in history. While cycling, you might encounter sites such as Hisham's Palace with its fascinating mosaics, Tel Al-Sultan (one of the oldest continuously inhabited spots), and the iconic Mount of Temptation. The dramatic Wadi Qelt, home to St. George of Koziba Monastery, also offers scenic views and historical significance. For more information on Jericho's unique experiences, you can visit Visit Palestine.

Jericho's warm climate makes it suitable for cycling for much of the year. The cooler months, typically from autumn through spring, are generally more comfortable for longer rides, avoiding the intense heat of summer. Spring and autumn are also ideal for bird watching in the Jordan Valley.

The routes around Jericho offer a range of difficulties. You'll find 12 moderate routes and 4 difficult routes. The terrain can vary from relatively flat, paved surfaces in the Jordan Valley to more challenging unpaved sections and significant elevation changes, especially on routes connecting to higher ground or extending towards Jerusalem.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Jericho are designed as loops. For example, you can explore the Colchester/Burlington bridge – Colchester Causeway loop from Essex Junction, a challenging 107.1 km route, or the moderate Brown's River Covered Bridge – Brookside Cemetery loop from Underhill, which covers 47.1 km.

While specific 'easy' routes are not highlighted in the current selection, many of the routes through the fertile Jordan Valley and palm groves offer relatively flat sections that can be enjoyable for families. It's advisable to check the route details for distance and elevation to ensure it matches your family's fitness level.

The touring cycling routes in Jericho are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 4 reviews. Cyclists often praise the unique blend of ancient history, the dramatic contrast between the fertile Jordan Valley and the stark Judean Desert, and the opportunity to cycle through extensive date palm groves.

Absolutely. Given Jericho's location significantly below sea level, routes that ascend towards higher ground, such as those extending towards Jerusalem or into the Judean Desert, offer considerable elevation changes. The Bike loop from Underhill, for instance, includes over 500 meters of elevation gain, providing a good challenge.

Yes, Jericho's strategic location near the Dead Sea makes it possible to plan cycling routes that incorporate a visit to its unique waters. The descent to the Dead Sea is a geographical highlight, offering a surreal experience as you cycle to the lowest point on Earth.

When cycling through the Judean Desert, be prepared for stark, open landscapes with rolling hills and dry riverbeds. It's essential to carry sufficient water, especially during warmer periods, as shade can be limited. The views are breathtaking, but the terrain can be more exposed and potentially unpaved in sections, requiring good fitness.

Many routes in Jericho specifically highlight its agricultural identity. You'll frequently cycle through the fertile Jordan Valley, passing extensive date palm groves, as well as fields of citrus and bananas. This offers a chance to observe local farming practices and enjoy shaded sections under the palms.

While specific parking locations for each route are not detailed, starting points for routes like the Bike loop from Essex Junction or the Brown's River Covered Bridge loop from Essex are typically in or near towns where public parking facilities may be available. It's recommended to check local parking options in the vicinity of your chosen starting point.