SP Hike to Grindstone Cave: 16 - 17 August

Eager boys and girls had rucksacks packed, rearing to go on this term’s SP Hike. Our destination; Injisuthi camp – Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife - for an overnight stay at Grindstone Cave, high in the mountains.

With a breathtaking view of the snow-capped mountain in the distance, the group of hikers started the steep ascent. Mr Neary leading the pack and Mrs Whitehead trailing behind.

Working as a team, each carried their own clothing, sleeping bags and bedding and a portion of the food and the supplies needed for the evening, including stoves, pots, a kettle, crockery and cutlery.

As the sun set, our torches came in handy, shining light on our path towards our destination. Reaching “Shower cave” in the dark – although no “showering” happened, we filled up our water supplies with fresh mountain water. This delicious water beats any store bought bottled water. A short walk from there we reached Grindstone cave.

Sleeping arrangements and bedding were quickly laid out and the serious business of eating began. Noodles and tuna were served for dinner. The peas and corn stayed safely in their cans, only to be carried back down the mountain. Interesting snacks were carried up; and some - down, the mountain. Not all snacks are made for hiking and the “chip and dip” had transformed into “crush and dip”.

After dinner, the cave started to become quieter as the children took themselves to bed. Much chitter-chatter was heard with the girls definitely winning the “talking into the night” trophy.

The not-so-distant sound of thunder rolled in during the night and we were well sheltered by the huge overhead rock formation of the cave. The wind blew some crockery around and the rain became a peaceful white noise.

With an early awakening at sunrise, the children went exploring the vast cave and surrounds. After a hearty breakfast of oats, and some more snacks, we packed up our rucksacks and left the cave. The journey down the mountain was steep and slow at times, and resting on the side of the mountain allowed for moments of witnessing in awe the vastness and greatness of the landscape; a reminder of how tiny we are in comparison.

A highlight for all the children was climbing to the top of a rock formation some way down the mountain; a challenge of bravery for some. The photographer – not so brave, but happy to capture this memorable moment.

Arriving at “dipping tank”, was a wonderful way to spend the morning relaxing in the sun, finding pebbles in the water, exploring the river and swimming in the icy water of the pools.

The last stretch to base was a quick descent with a coke and delicious snack waiting for us at the vehicles.

Thanks to Mr Ndaba Bhengu for driving our champs in our Champ 4 bus, on roads that could rival with those carved out by the Voortrekkers over this very terrain.

The camaraderie between all the children at the hike was a gift to witness. Leadership, kindness, empathy, friendship and perseverance was demonstrated naturally during the weekend and the teachers who accompanied them are very proud of these young children.

Clifton children are brave, tenacious and adventurous. The 7 Grade 7 children reminisced about their adventures, outings and camps during their years at Clifton, that are now coming to an end. A little nostalgic, with a pang of sadness, but joy that they have these memories to cherish for their lifetimes.

Sore feet, happy hearts returned to CNR on Sunday afternoon – all looking forward to the comfort of their own beds and a hot shower.