Checking equipment – legs all ok
Participants: Left to right: Cheryl Devine, Janet Moore, Gill & Dave Manley, Gillian Forbes, Vanessa & Savanah Herbst (visitors), Greg Moore, Evie Bowen, Greg Devine. Not shown – Tony Bowen (meet leader)
Hike statistics: 15 km incl diversion, 5 ½ hour duration (quick pace)
Grade: 1, with an optional short Grade 2
Access, permits and trail head:
The hike is in the Groeneweide Forest Reserve, controlled by SANParks. Access to the trail head is from Saasveld campus of NMMU. There is a kiosk at the trail head, with self-issue permits and maps. There is a sign board showing the Red, Blue and Green routes.
Hike description:
The party met at 7.45am at the main gates to the campus, and then proceeded to the parking area near the swimming pool. After visiting the trail head and signing in, they were on the trail by 8am. The Red Route was followed.
The Red Route markers
The walk was predominantly in spectacular indigenous forest. Although the weather looked drizzly, it quickly cleared, and the day ended in sunshine. The route is well marked with a well-maintained trail, and with easy gradients. However, there are some fallen trees that need trimming to clear the path.
Savanah rock hopping the Kaaimans
The magical forest
All happy!
Tony Bowen – Meet leader