Dark Gorge

Route Description:

Dark Gorge is the ravine to the right of Newlands Ravine, when looking towards Devil's Peak from Newlands. It is a lovely, cool summer route but presents a lot of loose rock and is extra challenging when wet. Keep your group small and be vigilant of rocks being dislodged by the hiker in front of you.

The route starts on the contour path that runs between Newlands and Rhodes Memorial, approximately 70 meters from the Newlands Ravine start. There are a number of ravines in the area and going up the wrong one will likely lead you into dangerous territory.

The first part is largely wooded rock scree, with a number of cairns that could help navigation. A few minutes into the route you should encounter a sign which warns that it is a dangerous route, and that the recommended option is Newlands Ravine. When the ravine eventually splits you should take care to continue along the left-hand fork. The right-hand side is Dark Gully, an unpleasant rock climb and dangerous option for most hikers. 

Near the top of Dark Gorge you will reach a small forest of trees on a very steep slope, next to the cliff face. The final section where you exit from the trees is an exposed, earthy section which should also be navigated very carefully. There is another warning sign at the top of the route.