There are three different distances to choose from; an easy 6km walk along the banks of the river that takes you gently up to a viewpoint overlooking the dam and then back again, or the more challenging 8km and 10km that both follow the same riverside trail before veering up and around the mountain.
We decided to tackle the full 10km route and managed to complete it in about three and half hours with a decent stop at the top for an early morning sandwich and a cup of tea. The extra two kilometres on the route come courtesy of a winding path around a smaller koppie on the descent that takes you through interesting flora and around rocky outcrops where if you are lucky (or unlucky depending on how you feel about them) you might spot some baboons.
The views of the dam at the 3km mark are the highlight of all the trails, although the view from the highest point (around the 6km mark) comes a close second. The gently rolling hills of the Cradle of Humankind and the winding Krokodil river are laid out before you and light glints off the dam behind you while you wander through an undulating and rocky landscape dotted with interesting aloes. For those who enjoy a bit of a workout on the steep bits, it's also a rewarding and well-designed route up to the top and down again, without pushing you over the edge into the 'how much longer until this ends?' territory.
It's worth noting that there is little shade on all three hikes so the earlier you set out the better if you plan to visit in summer. Booking is essential and you are required to attend a brief talk about the trail, outlining the route and what to do in an emergency before you set off. Trail briefings happen every 30 minutes, with the first one at 07:30 and the last at 09:00.
For all your post-hike cold drink needs (and trust us if you are heading up in summer, you will be desperate for something thirst-quenching to cool you down!) there is a cafe, The Rusty Feather, on the plot next to the car park (look out for it on your left just before you head back out onto the main road) that serves light lunches, soft drinks and beers.
NEED TO KNOW: The trail is open Saturdays, Sundays and on most public holidays. Booking via whatsapp is essential. Contact Max at +27 83 625 3846 to book. The trail costs R60 per person, R30 for kids and you can pay for the hike when you arrive for the trail briefing. Look for the signs a few metres after the T-Junction of the R512 and R104. The car park is about 100 metres further along a well-maintained dirt road.
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