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Summit Trail
Kgaswane Mountain Reserve
Rustenburg, North West Province
The majestic Magaliesberg mountains is
home to Kgaswane Mountain Reserve. The Magaliesberg range predates the African
continent and was home to the very first humans. The reserve is about an hour
and a half from Johannesburg by car. The Summit trail is a two day backpack
trail and covers a distance of just over twenty five kilometres with the chance
of seeing the rare and shy Sable antelope, Zebra and many other game species.
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The Basecamp
The Witkruiskrans basecamp is
situated about 500metres from the parking area and therefore hikers need
to arrive in daylight. The gates to the park close at 7pm and this is
strictly adhered too.
The basecamp accommodates twelve
people and has beds, mattresses and standard ablutions. It also has a
covered social/dinning area. The braai area is not under cover so it is
advisable to take cooking facilities with you. |
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The trail starts ascending the mountains almost
immediately. Some parts are very steep and can be difficult going
especially in heat. It is advisable to get an early start, especially
during summer months. |
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The views on reaching the top are
quite spectacular. |
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There are some interesting rock
formations to be seen and it is interesting to ponder that they have been
around longer than the human race. |
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A well deserved rest at the
beacon before the final stretch to the overnight camp. |
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Naga Camp is a welcome sight
after a long and hot day hiking. |
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Sitting on some nearby rocks
overlooking an African scene of Zebra grazing in the distance, awaiting
the sunset, one can reflect on a similar vista that has not changed over
millions of years. |
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Just after the start of the
second day of the trail, one encounters some more rock formations that
would do credit to any sculpture collection.
The trail then descends into a
beautiful kloof with welcome relief from the searing heat of the sun. |
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Millions of years of erosion has
left resting place for the tired hiker. |
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cascading over rocks has a soothing effect |
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Tierkloof Waterfall is one of the
most spectacular settings to be seen on any trail. Time should be allowed
for a swim and relaxation at this beautiful spot. |
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The cool inviting water shouts
'welcome' to the aching hiker! |
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From Tierkloof the trail once
more ascends steeply to the heights and to another beacon before
eventually descending steeply through a kloof back to basecamp and the end
of the trail. |
Conclusion
The trail has many things to recommend
it, including spectacular views, diverse animal life and interesting rock
formations. However the trail requires a fair degree of fitness and if done
during the summer months, because of the heat, an early start is essentual.
Bookings
Bookings for the trails at Kgaswane
Nature Reserve are made through
The Reservations Officer
Kgaswane Nature Reserve
PO Box 20382, Protea Park, 0305, South
Africa
Telephone +27 (0) 14 533 2050 Fax +27
(0) 14 533 0397
e-mail
marcusl@mweb.co.za
Footprint Hiking Club
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