SP Hike - 3 - 4 May

There’s something deeply magical in the combination of a breathtaking sunrise and a steaming mug of hot chocolate cupped carefully in your hands. It becomes even more magical when the sun slowly lights up the towering mountains, highlighting glistening waterfalls and crevices in an orangey-yellowish-reddy light… and one can fully appreciate the gift of a new day. 

Having arrived at Mahai campsite and set up camp the previous evening, and following a spot of stargazing under Mr Neary’s tutelage before a good night's sleep, our keen cohort of hikers soon out paid to our brekky, watched by a curious Bushbuck. With a delicious hiking lunch packed, we were soon ready to tackle the trail up towards Tiger Falls. The path followed a gentle, gradual incline, providing gorgeous vistas. Moving steadily, we were delighted to happen upon a herd of about 30 Eland, which politely moved off to make way for our party. 

Tiger Falls was swelled by the recent rains… and a little extra-chilly thanks to meltwater from the heights above. With bottles refilled, snacks snacked, and backpacks cast to one side, it was time to explore. 

Clifton children are remarkable, soon producing interesting collections of agates, the ubiquitous crab (they always seem to be found by our crew), excitedly looking for pots of gold in the rainbows provided by waterfalls, and marvelling at the exquisite indigenous bush and trees. Suitably refreshed, it was off along our route once more, with our trusty Mr Neary sharing his deep knowledge of the ‘Berg. Before too long, we happened across what were voted as the best rock pools imaginable. The braver souls soon cooled off, and reality seemed a million miles away. 

We took a slow meander down the calf-searing path alongside the cascades section of the trail (perhaps with some more rock pool plunging), and were soon back at the campsite with happy hearts and excited chatter. Memories of a lifetime were made at Royal Natal National Park and Mahai campsite. Stay tuned to hear about next term’s hike to Grindstone Cave!