Dark Gorge, Pulpit Rock, 700 Meter Traverse and Mowbray Ridge
About the event
Join us for a thrilling 10 km circular hike that loops around Devils Peak and Minor Peak, beginning and ending at the historic Rhodes Memorial. Designed for fit and experienced hikers, this route showcases the striking contrasts between Table Mountain’s eastern and northern slopes. Expect boardwalks winding through lush Afromontane forest, a challenging climb and boulder scramble up Dark Gorge, and unforgettable panoramas from some of the mountain’s most iconic viewpoints.
Hike details: • Distance: 10km\, circular • Total elevation gain: \+/- 760m • Grade 3B hike • Duration: approximately 6-7 hours\, depending on length of rest breaks. • Difficulty: Good fitness\, sure-footedness\, sturdy shoes\, and some mild rock-scrambling experience are required\, along with a head for heights. Hiking sticks are recommended when descending Plumpudding Hill. A sense of adventure will do when the going gets tough.
Basic agenda: Starting from the Rhodes Memorial parking area, we ascend a rocky path, crossing two jeep tracks before reaching the intersection with the Newlands Link Path. A right turn followed quickly by a left brings us onto the scenic Contour Path. This trail winds into a pine plantation near First and Second Waterfall Ravine above Rhodes Estate, then continues into Newlands Forest, where we enter a lush indigenous woodland. A beautiful flat boardwalk cuts through the dense Afromontane forest, passing several side trails that descend into Newlands. We briefly pass the Dark Gorge turnoff before arriving at the Round Table—a perfect spot for our first break. Afterward, we tackle the majestic Dark Gorge. Here, sure-footedness is essential as we climb over fallen trees and negotiate loose rocks and boulders, keeping close to the left face to bypass Dark Gully on the right. The sheer cliffs close in as we ascend, culminating in a steep, short climb that leads us out of the gorge. A narrow footpath then winds through thick vegetation toward Pulpit Rock, where we pause to admire sweeping views to the east. From the saddle, a flat trail guides us toward the 700-Meter Traverse. This dramatic traverse skirts the western slopes of Devil’s Peak and Minor Peak before descending along Mowbray Ridge, eventually leading us to King’s Blockhouse.
Mowbray Ridge can be extremely challenging, especially for those with a fear of heights, and is best avoided by such hikers. From the King’s Blockhouse, the route descends toward Tafelberg Road, continuing further down past Plumpudding Hill. At the second jeep track, we turn right and follow a shaded footpath aptly named *Just Chute Me*, which leads us back to Rhodes Memorial. The hike concludes with a short climb up a few steps, returning us to the parking area where our journey began.
Fee to join hike: R70. Non-South Africans: cash only for facilitation fee. SA: Cash on the day or EFT on the day: Name of Acc: Boland Adventures Capitec Savings account nr: 173 138 2780 Branch code: 470010 Reference: Your name + Dark Gorge Please inform Marius or Elaine of any medical conditions before the hike.
Bring along: Water, snacks, coffee/tee, sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat) layers, (a light jacket or fleece depending on weather) emergency items, (whistle, multi-tool, and a small flashlight or headlamp)
Safety is a team effort: The hike leader is dedicated to guiding you safely, but your safety is a collective responsibility. To ensure everyone's well-being, please remain with the group at all times and follow instructions. Let's work together to make this a safe and enjoyable hike for all.
Indemnity: When attending this hike you indicate that you have read and accepted our Indemnity as below. The participant understands that adventure activities (including but not limited to hiking, climbing, camping, water sports, and outdoor excursions) carry inherent risks of injury, illness, or property damage. The Participant voluntarily chooses to participate, fully aware of these risks. The…
