yes, but....
The route from Eli's first book doesn't cross Tzeilim...(which by the way had about 5-10cm of flowing water just outside of Arad today when I was there)...which is far bigger than the others that they do cross. Around Arad there was light rain off and on all day from about 11am until 10pm. When I was out in a jeep looking at the Merutz Arad race course (I hope everyone plans to come on Jan 16), anything off-trail was extremely slick, but the trails with a solid foundation were fine. If you're willing to deal with the cold temperatures, go for it!!! I wish I could join you, but the Arad rescue team is doing a training exercise that's open to the public, for which I have to get up in...oh...just over 4 hours. Joy!
אשמח גם להצטרף לקבוצה שכבר מתכננת טיול באיזור. רוכב כושר מצויין.