Red Canyon
Canyon Narrow desert canyon with red sandstone formations
Red Canyon, south of Eilat in Israel, offers short slot-canyon hikes through red sandstone walls and easy day routes popular with photographers and walkers.
Red Canyon is a narrow sandstone canyon in Israel’s southern Negev, noted for its red-hued rock walls and short, accessible hiking routes. The canyon is a popular half-day outing for visitors based in the Eilat region.
Trails run along and through sections of the canyon with short climbs and narrow passages; routes are suitable for moderate fitness and typically take under a few hours to complete. The canyon’s red sandstone and sculpted walls are the main natural highlight.
The canyon was carved by erosion into the local sandstone and displays layered bedding and jointing typical of the region’s geology. There is no major built infrastructure inside the canyon beyond marked paths and small parking areas at trailheads.
Red Canyon sits in Israel’s southern Negev desert, within easy driving distance of Eilat on the Red Sea coast. Access is by paved road to marked car parks at the trailheads.
- Trail length and conditions: Marked loop trails are short and popular for day hikes; steep, narrow sections expose layered red sandstone and require caution in summer heat.
How to Get to Red Canyon #
Red Canyon is near Mitzpe Ramon and Eilat in southern Israel. From Eilat, drive north on Highway 90 and then west toward the canyon; clear signs mark the parking and trailhead. Public transport options are limited; driving or organized tours are most practical.
Tips for Visiting Red Canyon #
- Arrive in the late afternoon for the best shadow play on the canyon walls.
- Combine the visit with nearby Dana Nature Reserve or Timna for a longer desert day trip.
- Bring plenty of water and a sun hat; shaded areas are limited.
Best Time to Visit Red Canyon #
Best visited in cooler months; summer temperatures can be extreme in the Negev and surrounding desert.
Weather & Climate near Red Canyon #
Red Canyon's climate is classified as Hot Desert - Hot Desert climate with hot summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 4°C to 34°C. Very dry conditions with minimal rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 15°C and lows of 4°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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February
February is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 5°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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March
March is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 8°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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April
April is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 12°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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May
May is mild with highs of 30°C and lows of 16°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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June
June is warm with highs of 33°C and lows of 19°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 34°C and lows of 21°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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August
August is warm, feeling like 27°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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September
September is warm with highs of 32°C and lows of 19°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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October
October is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 15°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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November
November is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 10°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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December
December is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 5°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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