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Location: The climb starts from the end of the Saddle Knife Edge where it meets the East Face of Table Mountain. Reach the Saddle via the zig-zag path from Table Mountain Road or Newlands Ravine, then climb higher and traverse the Knife Edge. OSM map
Overview: Ledges is the only scrambling route up the East Face of Table Mountain above the Saddle. NB Recommendation: Only use it as a descent route after the Silverstream Traverse if someone in the party is familiar with Ledges. Finding the way down is harder than finding the way up!
Route Description:
See slideshow below for details.
Note: Between the sloping block and the chimney, the route braids with several variations. There are no major differences and it doesn't matter much which option is taken. However this does make life a bit trickier if coming down Ledges after doing the Silverstream Traverse.
At the time of this update (September 2024) the route has become reasonably popular with people doing (or considering!) the 13 Peaks Challenge. Multiple vague trails have formed and some cairns are being placed by hikers not familiar with the route. This may complicate route-finding, so great care needs to be taken to safely navigate the correct route.
13 Peaks Challenge Warning: While Ledges may be the "shortest route" option between Klaassenskop and Devil's Peak, it is potentially quite hazardous for inexperienced hikers. Ascending the route requires advanced skills and experience, only recommended in the company of someone familiar with the route and who can provide a rope for safety. Descending it is significantly more difficult and dangerous. For most people it would be safer to descend Nursery Ravine or Skeleton Gorge from Klaassenskop, then continue along the Kirstenbosch - Newlands Contour Path and ascend Newlands Ravine to reach Devil's Peak. Even these routes need to be navigated with care - safety first.
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