Kututsa Hiking Trail

Franshoek near Fickburg, Free State

The eastern Free State area around Ficksburg and Fouriesberg is home to a number of excellent weekend hiking trails. Kututsa trail is situated at Franshoek, well known among Polo players as a playing match venue and adjoining Rustler's Valley home to Rock Concerts. The trail is moderately difficult and runs through the beautiful sandstone mountains that form a lovely backdrop to the valley.

         
 

The base camp at Kututsa is an old barn overlooking the green turf of the Polo field. The barn is equipped with straw mattresses, showers and toilets. A braai and grid is also available along with wood.

  
Looking out on the Polo Field The Barn
The mountains in the distance
 
         
 
 

The trail starts off by following a stream through dense riverine forest for some distance. It then turns away from the stream and heads for the mountains.

  
         
 

The trail ascends steeply affording beautiful views of the valley bellow.

  
 
         
 
 

The trail descends briefly to cross a road before ascending to the highest part of the trail and traverses some of the most beautiful sandstone mountains to be found on any trail.

  
         
  The rock overhangs found at the end of the first day are probably the largest that are to be found in the Free State.  
 
         
 
Preparing for a night out
The inside of the cave The cave from the outside
 

The rock overhang that is used as the overnight shelter is most impressive and there is plenty of space for even the largest of groups.

  
         
 

It is worthwhile exploring the area of the kloof beyond the cave. There is a lovely pool and waterfall. The lake below the cave is also worth a visit.

  
The top of the waterfall The Lake
The bottom of the waterfall Looking up the kloof
 

Conclusion

This is a trail that has been around for a number of years. The trail passes through some of the most beautiful areas of the Free State. If you like peace and quiet as most hikers do, make sure that you do this trail when it is not festival time at Rustler's Valley.

Bookings

 

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