Railway Park (HaMesila) from First Station

Railway Park, known in Hebrew as HaMesila, is a linear urban park in Jerusalem, Israel, that follows the route of the historic Jerusalem railway line from First Station in the German Colony toward Malha. The walk starts at First Station, 4 David Remez Street, a former railway station now used as a leisure complex, and runs about 6 km one way, taking roughly one and a half to two hours. The trailhead is easy to reach on foot from the German Colony and Emek Refaim area, and no permit or parking is required. Because the path follows a former rail bed, the gradient is gentle, with a total ascent of about 40 m, and the surface is mostly paved or compacted, which suits trainers or walking shoes rather than hiking boots. The park is open to the sky in many sections, so shade is intermittent and sun protection matters in warm months. Along the way, walkers pass residential neighbourhoods, old railway features, green strips with benches and pedestrian crossings, with views that change from city streets to more open valley edges toward Malha. Walkers and cyclists often share the path, so keeping to one side is courteous. The route is a one-way walk, with return options by light rail L3 or by bus from the Malha end, and walkers can leave the path at many points to find transit. Water is not available at all points, so carrying a bottle is sensible, though cafés and shops near First Station allow a final refill before starting. There are no refuge huts, but benches and urban amenities provide plenty of rest stops. The path is usable year-round, with spring and autumn being the most comfortable seasons, and early mornings or evenings being best in summer.