Day 4: The Tsitsikamma Trail
By Voets Toets Hiking
Tsitsikamma
Day 4, and everybody was up early doing their preparations for another long day of hiking. In store for today was 'Rushes Pass' and three river crossings, namely, the Lottering river, Elandbos river, and Kleinbos river.
13,4km trail on offer
Moderate and scenic route
Merrell Hiking Boots, water shoes, sunscreen, a hat, hydration, a trekking pole and energy snacks
Route:
We started with a gradual descent for 1,5km through tall fynbos before reaching the Lottering river. After crossing, we started to ascend 'Rushes Pass', making our way up towards the viewpoint with 'Klipbokkop' and 'Elandskop' on either side of us. The viewpoint offers amazing views of other peaks as well as large pockets of remote indigenous forests as far as the eye can see. The trail then descends to the Elandbos river, where you'll follow the western bank for about a kilometre before reaching the crossing point. The last section of the trail takes you through the lush Heuningbos forest. At the 11km mark, you'll be able to spot your accommodation for the night in the distance. After your final descent towards the hut, you'll have to cross the Kleinbos river twice before reaching the Heuningbos Hut.
Follow The Route
Field Notes:
Sunscreen, a hat, hydration, and energy snacks are always important items to have. A trekking pole came in handy, especially on the descents. Water shoes are advisable, but I was able to navigate all the crossings in my preferred Merrell hiking boots easily.
Join Our Hiking ClubTrail Log:
After settling into our accommodation, we lit the donkey for hot water and prepared ourselves for the evening. We had another hearty braai and discussed the day's events with a few cold ones before heading off to bed for a well-deserved rest.
