Table Mountain is a playground for adventure seekers. With the Cable Car being it’s most popular attraction, it also boasts an impressive lineup of hiking trials. In this article, we will explore the various routes to hike to Table Mountain.
Let’s get started.
The best time to hike to Table Mountain
First, let’s have a look at the best time to hike. Cape Town’s summer months are ideal for hiking, with beautiful weather during most days. Temperatures can soar during the summer months from October to March. It is therefore a good idea to start your hike early in the morning. Be sure to check the weather report before heading to Table Mountain as the weather is unpredictable and can change quickly.
Platteklip Gorge
Platteklip Gorge is undoubtedly Table Mountain’s most popular hiking trail. It is by no means an easy hike, and it requires a good fitness level to complete. The hike starts on Tafelberg Road located on the front face of Table Mountain. After navigating a fair amount of large rocky steps for roughly 2.6KM, you will reach the top of Table Mountain in less than 3 hours. Start your hike first thing in the morning to avoid the hot afternoon sun.
Distance: 2.6KM
Completion Time: 2.5 – 3 hours (one way)
Fitness Level Required: Good
The Pipe Track
This route doesn’t lead to the top of Table Mountain but rather goes around it. It is an easier hike, compared to Platteklip Gorge which requires a higher fitness level. The route starts near the first parking lot located near the beginning of Tafelberg Road. Along the 6KM walk to Corridor Ravine you will be treated with spectacular views of Lion’s Head and the Atlantic Ocean. It is best to start this hike early in the morning as you will be exposed to the hot afternoon sun in the summer.
Distance: 6KM
Completion Time: 1.5 – 3 hours
Fitness Level Required: Moderate
Skeleton Gorge
This route starts in the beautiful Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden up the back of Table Mountain. You will follow a lush ravine that leads up to the beach at the historic Table Mountain reservoirs. From here you can take an hour-long walk to the upper cable station should you wish to take the cable car down. On the way to the upper cable station make sure you stop at Maclear’s Beacon which is the highest point on Table Mountain. It is a fairly demanding hike, so it requires a good fitness level and it is advisable to start your hike early in the morning.
Distance: 6.5KM
Completion Time: 2 – 4 hours (one way)
Fitness Level Required: Good
India Venster
This hike is for the more adventurous hiker as it involves elementary climbing and exposure to narrow ledges. It is child-friendly though, so you can take the little ones with. It is a less strenuous hike when compared to Skeleton Gorge, but it is considered a more technical hike. It is therefore recommended that you walk this route with the help of the guide. Along the way, you will be treated with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Cape Town city. A word of warning though, if you suffer from a fear of heights then this route is probably not for you.
Distance: 2.5KM
Completion Time: 3 – 4 hours (one way)
Fitness Level Required: Moderate
Lion’s Head
Technically not a route that leads to the top of Table Mountain, but you can’t have a list of Table Mountain hiking trails without mentioning Lion’s Head. It is the free-standing peak next to Table Mountain and it is an exciting hike that will treat you view amazing views of Table Mountain, Cape Town city, and the Atlantic Ocean. It is a fan-favourite and can be enjoyed early in the morning or as a sunset hike. A truly memorable experience and not to be missed.
Distance: 2.5KM
Completion Time: 3 – 4 hours (round trip)
Fitness Level Required: Moderate
