Els Buttress

Route Description: 

The route starts about 500m (half way) up Newlands Ravine from the Contour Path, at a level of around 600m. It is near the point where Newlands Ravine emerges from the trees into open ground, where the path takes a zig-zag from the left to the right-hand side of Newlands Ravine. 

After about 10 meters, you will notice an option of two tracks. One track continues to traverse along the current level. Do not continue here.  Take the alternate track on your right which continues onto a steep ascending traverse to the first rock band. Traverse left at the base of the rock band to an obvious crack leading up through the band. This is the most difficult pitch and although it is only about 5 - 6 meters, a rope may be required. This pitch is unpleasant when wet. 

After this pitch the route is obvious, following the ridge all the way to the Knife Edge through numerous rock bands, most are easy but some are more challenging and exposed. It is also possible to bypass some of the steps by veering to either the left or right.

The fastest return is down Newlands Ravine, but there are a variety of options.... take your pick. This route works well as a combination with Ledges, but only for very experienced hikers who are keen for a long day on the mountain. In this case it would generally be best to afterwards descend Skeleton Gorge.