Gordon Smith (guest ), Janine Hoare (guest), Amelia Spargo, Jenna Hoare (guest), Cheryl Devine, Natascha Hoare (guest), Karin van Niekerk, Gabby Hoare (guest), Dave Hoare (guest), El Doree Slabbert, Andre Du Plessis, Frans Slabbert, Greg Devine, Andre Brink. Photo by Tony Bowen ((meet not in photo (shorter hike option )): Evie Bowen, Janet Moore
All met at the top of Montagu Pass at 8.30 a.m. with perfect hiking weather in the offing. The group size of 15 for the main hike plus 2 for the alternative hike was a nice turnout, and included “old” and “new” members plus several guests.
After walking down Montage Pass a short distance, we came to the bridge carrying the “Power Train” across the road. Here we ascended onto the railway and walk along it until the first tunnel was encountered.
Shortly before the second tunnel we headed up, crossing over the tunnel onto a steep hill. Kroonkop bears down majestically, declaring “I am crowned the queen of this valley”.
Now the route goes straight up to the base of the cliffs, through some scratchy fynbos and off-path, to a small cave.
At the base of the cliffs, we traversed to the left, to find a steep gully leading to Kroonkop. This provided a spectacular tea-spot.
Thereafter we followed a rocky ridge heading north to “Hastings Peak”, our nickname for the peak whose height is 1066m.
Here the Kingdom of the North is in full view.
After meeting up with the group doing the alternative hike option, we descended Cradock Pass to the start point.
Thanks to all for joining this hike and making the day special.
Meet Leader ~ Tony Bowen