Are you itching for a new adventure where you’re surrounded by breathtaking scenery while enjoying fresh air? Now there’s no need to search far and wide when Cape Town has the most amazing hiking trails to welcome all nature lovers.
Here are four popular hiking trails that are suitable for children and beginners too:
The Pipe Track
Even though the Pipe Track from Kloof Nek can become congested, we can definitely see why! This popular trail is commonly used on the weekends for hiking, walking and running, and boasts the most beautiful views over Camps Bay, Lion’s Head and the Atlantic Ocean.
Table Mountain’s unique fynbos is certainly a sight to behold as you navigate through a single rock path that later joins onto a jeep track. Take time to enjoy the views along the way as you pass through stunning ravines of the western slopes. Even though your journey may be rocky in some areas, it certainly isn’t steep with only a few slight hills which makes it a perfect outing for children.
As one of Table Mountain’s oldest hiking routes, it’s still enjoyed by locals who love a relaxed stroll while catching a magnificent glimpse of the 12 Apostles mountain range.
Distance: +/- 6km
Time: 3 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Newlands Forest Contour Path
The lush, tranquil aura that Newlands Forest brings is like music to our soul. Take a stroll or enjoy a trail run – a perfect way for your children to release their energy. Even though this walk is quite long, you’ll be so distracted by the amazing views that the distance won’t even matter!
The walk starts and ends at Rhodes Memorial, via Kirstenbosch, Skeleton Gorge or Nursery Ravine, and even though certain areas are relatively steep, the journey is flat overall as it takes you along a wooden boardwalk. The natural environment and fynbos serves as one of the many highlights, so prepare for a journey like no other.
Distance: +/- 8km
Time: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Elephant’s Eye Cave Trail
Even though this may be a slightly challenging hike, it’s not all that difficult especially for children. Leave your car in the car park at Silvermine’s reservoir and follow the sounds of the birds chirping and the insects singing while making your way past the signposted jeep track and up the mountain.
The name for Elephant’s Eye was given based on the shape of the mountain side, which resembles the side of an elephant’s head and this trail is located near Noordhoek. It can get quite congested at times so ensure that you arrive early if this trail tickles your nature-loving fancy.
Distance: 6-8km
Time: +/- 3 hours
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Elsies Peak
As a Capetonian gem that offers the most incredible views of False Bay, Fish Hoek, Simon’s Town and Glencairn, Elsies Peak is a firm favourite when it comes to adults and children. Even though there are a few areas that are steep, beginners can still tackle this walk and have a blast while doing so.
Distance: 2.5-4.5 km
Time: +/- 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Also read:
Winter wonders of Kirstenbosch – Free entry for kids this school holidays
Picture: Unsplash