Exploring Home - Urban Hike 2025
By Jenni Gault
Port Elizabeth
Urban hiking is a fabulous way to exercise when trails are not necessarily available.
After all, exploring the city still involves being outdoors. Yet too often, we miss many beautiful sights while zooming past in vehicles, trying to reach our destination desperately. By embarking on an urban hike, we are encouraged to slow down and enjoy a different but lovely way to explore forgotten treasures.
5km route
Easy urban route, suitable for all ages
Merrell shoes, cap, dry mac (weather dependent), sunscreen ESSENTIAL, water and a light snack
Route:
Our route, based in Central, took us from a delish Cappuccino at Lincoln's Coffee Shop, to Lower Valley Road, past Bridge Street Breweries, and up the infamous Brickermakers Kloof. Our destination, Fort Frederick, offered us an incredible 360° view of the Bay.
Follow The Route
Field Notes:
Urban hiking, in my opinion, is a "pace not a race" exercise. It offers you the exciting opportunity to see:
- street art
- old architecture
- forgotten roads
- beautiful old trees
As with all hikes, safety and security are paramount. Being willing to adapt your route to circumstance, as well as being vigilant, is essential. It is very much a team hike and a great way to build camaraderie. Community was my special word for the day.
Join Our Hiking ClubTrail Log:
Our team, which ranged in age from 5 to 72, was a delightful mix of youth, men, and women. Although their fitness levels varied, everyone certainly enjoyed themselves. Our youth were incredibly enthusiastic when asked to don gloves, grab a garbage bag, and fill it as quickly as possible.
