The Paran Water Course
(Wadi Gerafi). The largest dry water course of the Southern Negev, running into the Sinai desert. Its slopes are composed of limestone. On its way to the Arava Valley it cuts through a chain of hills, rising 500 metres above sea level, and composed of Tertiary, Nummulite sandstone.
Water is found only during the few rainy days of the year. The basin and mountain slopes are covered with gravel and hamada stones, resulting from desintegration. Flora is sparse and very poor. Successful boring experiments have recently been made in the valley. The drainage basin of the water course is called "The Desert of Paran" in the Pentateuch.
Recent discoveries indicate that it was used by the children of Israel in the course of their wanderings in the wilderness.
