The fastest and easiest way to reach the fortress is by cable car, it takes about 5 minutes.  There are four routes you can take to reach the top: The most popular is the Snake Path. The path is 1150 feet (350 meters) long, it starts at the Dead Sea. It takes about an hour to 90 minutes, while the descent takes only 30 to 45 minutes. The Roman path is a ramp that was built by the Roman Empire. Considered the easiest hike to the top, the path is only 50 meters long. The longest and most challenging hiking trails to follow on Masada are the Elazer Path and the Runner Path.