Pics, Pics and More Pics

I've seen so many amazing things over the past couple weeks that I can barely wrap my head around all of it, let alone write about it. Until I get my thoughts together, I hope you'll enjoy some random photographs from the Israel National Trail. 

 

Real Israeli craft beer! This delicious porter is from the Negev Brewing Company. 

 

A gift from my friends Itai and Yona. 

The trail blazes took a little getting used to but it's easier now: The INT follows the black trail to the left and the blue trail continues to the right. 

 

 A monument to a man who died out here from dehydration. A reminder that mistakes made in the Negev are quickly punished. 

 

I'm sure my cell phone camera does not do justice to this view. The Maktesh Katan (the 'small crater') was stunning to see but difficult to cross. 

 

In Detroit, when someone shows you their '67 Mustang, you think, "Wow... 50 years old!" These steps were carved into the rock by the Romans 2,300 years ago. Puts things into perspective. 

 

Again, hard to tell how massive this structure. It's called the Karbolet and it's basically a giant cliff turned up at 45 degrees. The trail takes you along the knife edge at the top. 

 

Nightmare takes Leave No Trace VERY seriously. He strapped this plastic car bumper to his pack and hiked it out. 

I am constantly reminded that this entire desert uses to be under water. Amolites and sea shells are everywhere. 

 

One of the few natural springs here in the desert. I had to dip into that cool cool water. 

 

 

My friend Denise looking majestic at the cliff's edge. 

What's the difference between a hiker and a homeless person? I'm not sure. In this country, we're both!

 

 The Afghan Fox (not my photo). These things are everywhere and they are BOLD. They have no problem sneaking into your campsite and stealing your food. 

The tomb of David Ben-Gurion. He was Israel's first Prime Minister and a super-genius. 

 

 Nightmare setting up his tarp before dark. On windy nights, he does a 'storm pitch'. 

 

More Ibex. I see them everywhere and I always stop to watch them. 

 

....for now. I'll post more pics again soon. 

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