After months of recovery work following the fierce April fires, hikers and nature lovers can breathe a little easier – some of Cape Town’s most popular mountain trails are officially set to reopen on 1 July 2025, Cape {town} Etc reports.
The South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed that the Tokai and Silvermine East sections of Table Mountain National Park, including access routes to Kalk Bay, St James, Muizenberg and the Steenberg Plateau, will once again be open to the public. But it’s not all good news just yet.
The destructive blaze that tore through the area earlier this year left more than 2 800 hectares scorched, damaging key infrastructure like boardwalks, bridges, ablution facilities and picnic sites. As a result, many sections, including the beloved Silvermine West picnic area and trails around the dam, will remain off-limits until further notice.
Hazards such as exposed nails, twisted metal, and unstable pathways are still being cleared in some parts, making it too dangerous for visitors. The popular boardwalk around Silvermine Dam, in particular, has been declared structurally unsound.
According to SANParks, work is progressing, but winter conditions are slowing things down. ‘Safety is our top priority,’ the authority said. ‘We cannot risk public access until these repairs are complete.’
Apart from the physical damage, there’s also an ecological reason for the extended closures. Post-fire regeneration is in full swing, with delicate fynbos species beginning to re-emerge. Foot traffic, especially from humans and dogs, could trample new growth before it has a chance to take hold.
SANParks emphasised that selectively opening certain paths while others remain closed could make access control nearly impossible. ‘It wouldn’t be fair, or practical, to allow mountain bikers access while keeping hikers and dog walkers out,’ the organisation explained.
In the meantime, volunteer groups like Tokai MTB and the SANParks Honorary Rangers have stepped up to assist in rehabilitation efforts, earning praise for their commitment to restoring these beloved natural spaces.
Full access to Silvermine West, including toilets and the riverwalk, will only resume once major repairs are completed and visitor safety can be guaranteed.
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Picture: SANParks / Facebook
