Warning for Helderberg hikers

THE City of Cape Town is urging visitors to choose trails suited to their hiking experience and to consider the terrain and weather conditions before setting out following two recent hiking emergencies involving falls at the Helderberg Nature Reserve. The reserve offers a range of hiking options, from short, easy walks to more demanding routes for experienced hikers. Selecting a trail that matches a visitor’s abilities is critical for personal safety and security, the city says. Eight main trails are available. West Peak and The Dome are recommended for experienced hikers only, as they involve steep ascents, scrambling, loose stones and exposure to heights. These routes extend beyond the reserve’s official boundaries and offer panoramic views over False Bay, the Cape Winelands and Table Mountain. Other trails, including Waboom, Protea, Leopard’s Loop, Watsonia and Sugarbird Walk are connected by a network of interlinking paths and are suited to regular hikers. The Siskin, Batis and White-eye trails feature shaded sections with trees and ponds while Waboom, Watsonia, Leopard’s Loop and Woodies Walk pass through ravines with mountain streams, shaded kloofs and more demanding rocky terrain. Visitors are advised to avoid steep trails, particularly Leopard’s Loop and Woodies Walk, during bad weather. “The weather is an unknown factor that dictates safety. Extreme weather can turn a friendly and inviting mountain into a harsh terrain where the risk of severe medical emergencies such as hypothermia or heat exhaustion can happen quickly,” says Eddie Andrews, the City’s Deputy Mayor and Mayoral Committee Member for Spatial Planning and Environment. Visitors are encouraged to hike in groups, carry sufficient food and water, wear appropriate clothing and footwear, keep their phones fully charged and ensure emergency contact numbers are readily available before heading out. Standard hikes at the reserve do not require advance booking. Visitors can pay the entrance fee at the gate. Guided hikes are available through the Friends of the Helderberg Nature Reserve. The reserve is open daily and operating hours vary seasonally.