Hikers

Hiking up one of the easier paths. Photo courtesy Michiel van Balen

For the serious hiker

If the idea of mountainous cliffs, steep drops and strenuous climbing blows your hair back, you might like to take the cableway to the top and hike back down, or even hike both ways!

Important rules for hikers

• Never hike alone. A group of four is ideal. Nominate a leader to guide you and make decisions on behalf of the group
• The group should hike at the rate of the slowest member and should never split up
• Take more than enough drinking water, especially in summer
• Select your route best suited to your group’s experience, fitness levels and capability
• Hike with someone who is familiar with the route or use a recent map or guidebook. Alternatively consult someone who has personally climbed the route
• Allow sufficient time to ascend and descend before dark, making allowance for a stop at the summit for a rest and refreshments
• If you intend taking the Cableway down, make sure that it is operating on the day
• Never stray off designated routes, take short cuts or enter unknown ravines
• Take note of signs that warn of danger ahead
• Always ensure that someone knows exactly which route you intend taking and when you expect to return (do not deviate from this plan)
• Take proper weatherproof and windproof clothing in your backpack in case the weather changes or you are delayed for some reason
• Be aware of changes in the weather and turn back if bad weather threatens, or if you’re battling on the chosen route
• In an emergency, find a spot that offers some form of shelter from the wind. Never try to continue climbing in the dark or in heavy mist
• If you get lost, retrace your steps. If you can’t find your original path, move down broad, open slopes.

Hiking up and down Platteklip

If you decide to give the Cableway a miss in favour of a hike to the top of the mountain, do not be misled by the 3km distance from bottom to top. The distance may sound short, but the hike is a physically demanding “moderate to tough” route that takes between one and three or more hours to complete.

The hike is suitable for older children who are in peak physical condition. Although the path is easy to negotiate, it is quite steep and should be tackled at an easy pace, affording hikers time to appreciate the flora, fauna and scenic views.

The route starts at the parking lot 2km past the lower cable station.

Buy the complete Table Mountain map online from www.themaps.co.za