There may be plenty of options when choosing a hiking trail in Cape Town, but picking the wrong one for a family friendly outing may lead to crying and carrying.
If you are looking for something a little less challenging for family and four-legged friends, we have you covered.
Here are five trails that will leave you in awe, not agony.
Also read: Eagle’s Nest via Constantia Nek: an ‘off the beaten track’ sunrise hike
Alphen Trail
Picture: Murray Swart
The Alphen Trail stretches along the Constantia Greenbelt and offers some truly spectacular scenery.
A stunning array of plant life lines the trickling waters along this tranquil and very accessible 7.7km out-and-back trail.
While parts of the route may be somewhat tricky when pushing a pram, this trail is hardly a technical challenge and is very easy to navigate, making it ideal for families.
It is also a perfect and extremely popular spot for dog walkers with four-legged friends of all shapes and sizes, and a regular feature along the way.
Signal Hill Spine
Picture: Murray Swart
In the shadow of Lion’s Head, the Signal Hill Spine is an exquisite yet often overlooked trail, offering arguably among the best panoramic views of Cape Town.
Approaching the paragliding launch site from the Kramat, visitors are treated to stunning views of the Atlantic Seaboard on their left and breathtaking cityscapes on their right. Both Table Mountain and Lion’s Head are also on full display along this 5km out-and-back trail.
While the terrain is on the rocky side, the route along the spine is essentially flat, making it an ideal option for visitors wanting the full “Cape Town” experience without the exertion of summiting Lion’s Head.
This is a very popular area for hiking, running, and walking, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.
Elephant’s Eye (Silvermine)
While Elephant’s Eye is more of a challenge than many of the other entries on this list, it is by no means a difficult route and is a good option for families looking to up their heart rates without breaking too much of a sweat.
It may not be the simplest of family adventures, but the views are certainly well worth the effort.
The easiest route to the cave is from Silvermine Nature Reserve, giving you the advantage of climbing most of the height by car up Ou Kaapse Weg.
Alternatively, hikers can also set off from the Tokai Arboretum, which is a slightly more difficult route but still easy enough for the kids to enjoy.
This 5.3-km out-and-back trail, near Noordhoek, takes an average of one hour and 46 minutes to complete and is popular among locals who want to enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.
The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
Newlands Forest Short Circuit
The Newland’s Forest, which runs along the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, is another safe and simple enough option for dog walkers, trail runners, nature lovers, picnickers, and tourists looking to get into nature without having to travel far.
Like Elephant’s Eye, the short circuit is considered a moderately difficult trail, taking just over an hour to complete.
Apart from the lush foliage, which offers ample shade for a cool and relaxing trek, there is plenty to experience along this trail, with spectacular views to enjoy between the trees.
Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.
Muizenberg to St James Walk
Technically speaking, the Muizenberg to St James Walk may not be a trail but rather a paved walkway between two of Cape Town’s most popular beaches.
However, don’t let this deter you from the 3.4km out-and-back route. It’s scenic, simple and absolutely worth visiting.
The route is arguably the simplest on this list and is no problem to navigate with a stroller.
It can get quite heavily trafficked and congested when walkers and runners are moving in both directions.
Considering that it offers some of the most beautiful views Cape Town has to offer, especially at sunrise.
Also read:
Elevate your hiking game: tackle Camel Rock to Cecilia Waterfall
Pictures: Murray Swart