SOME hidden-gem hiking trails can be discovered in the Highway area, and you may not need to go far out of your way to find them. After the recent Durban storms, avid hiker David Hancock said people might need to wait for the high water to recede and only then can they hike, but much more carefully than usual, thanks to the slippery conditions underfoot and new gullies to cross.
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Giba Gorge
Almost all of the hiking trails at Giba Gorge remain intact in some form or another. All are very hike-able, and most are enjoyable even for the less fit. People can choose from an easy hike to the first waterfall or cross the river to a cat trail and hike the Upper Riverside Trail to the picturesque cascade. Then, they can find the new Skeleton Trail at the top of the cascade. Hike the Skeleton Trail to the huge waterfall and continue on to round back to the coffee shop for lunch.
For the energetic, there is Giba Peak trail to climb. Challenge your mates and your energy here, and then go on to peak two and down the zigzags. There is a trail up the sand road to the very top waterfall, if you can comb the big hole. The adventurers among you can find Upper Mackintosh Falls for a great technical outing.
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Palmiet Nature Reserve
The reserve has a charming circular hiking trail, embracing a large part of the reserve. People can visit the cascade, and watch out for many spots to cross the river where they can get their feet wet and may even take a quick swim.
Highstakes 4×4 Track and Store at Cato Ridge
This hike is a lesser-known trail where the magnificent Mini Gorge Trail has been opened. This is a longer day hike and you might require a rope to help you down the 6m waterfall drop down the gorge. There are many river crossings, and the high level of the river will mean that you will get your feet wet. It’s an uphill hike back to awesome hamburgers and cokes but one of the best hiking days out on this planet. Fitness required.
“Get out there and enjoy yourself, hike often and get fit. Or just join a hiking club and let the hikers show you around some perfect outdoor trails,” said Hancock.
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