It’s a new year, it’s summer and the mountains are calling your name! Here are five easy hiking trails for new hikers tackling the Cape Town mountains:
1. The Vredehoek Quarry
The Vredehoek Quarry is a lesser-known, stunning hike near Devil’s Peak. The quarry walk takes you through an old tunnel located near the old Vredehoek Tin Mine.
The 1.6km path can be walked, run or biked, making it perfect for people of all ages and abilities. It also offers gorgeous views and acts as a great spot for rock climbing.
Watch our team take on this hike here:
2. Kloof Corner
Kloof Corner is a quick trail that gets your heart racing. This route gives you the same beautiful views as more advanced hikes but with far less effort.
Kloof Corner steps start just after one or two twists and turns up Tafelberg Road, as if you’re going up to the cable car. The trail takes you uphill, making it slightly more engaging than a flat route, but is only 1.4km long.
The views are so worth it at the end. There is even a perfect place for a morning coffee or an evening drink once you reach the plateau.
3. The Pipe Track
The Pipe Track is a well-known Cape Town hike known for its beauty. This hike is 6km, giving you the opportunity to spend more time out on the mountain while still following a manageable trail.
The route takes you along the Atlantic coast and looks over Camps Bay, Lion’s Head and the Atlantic Ocean. The path is also full of fynbos and proteas, making it a notably beautiful trail.
There are many lovely spots along the way where you can stop and enjoy the scenery while snacking.
Also read: Take the month of love to new heights with Intaka Island’s Full Moon Hike
4. Newlands Forest
The great thing about Newlands Forest is that it boasts various trails, meaning you can go to the same spot a few times and get totally different experiences.
The Newlands Forest Short Circuit Experience is a 3.4km trail that is popular for both walking and running. You will often see people walking their dogs along the route.
This route is great for a slightly more challenging hike while still keeping things slow and manageable.
5. Alphen Trail
The Alphen Trail is a beautiful route for getting some fresh air and admiring the scenery. Found in Constantia Valley, the walk can start at either end.
Most people park their cars on the bend of Alphen Drive that leads off Constantia Main Road to the Alphen Hotel.
The trail, often buzzing with other families and dogs, winds along the Diep River to Constantiaberg Mountain. The walk is filled with lush grass, trees and beautiful skies.
Also read:
10 adventures in Cape Town to tick off your bucket list in 2023
Picture: Ruby Berg / Capeetc