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Explore nature with guided hikes

Amblers Hiking Club chairman invites retired people or those who do not work full-time and have a reasonable level of fitness, such as they gym or walk often and who can walk at least 5km to join the club's Wednesday hike.

TO all those who love walking and hiking, and the outdoors in general, the Wednesday section of Amblers Hiking Club invites you to join them for a trail hike.

The trails take place on any Wednesday morning at 08:00 sharp for a full morning hike in Giba Gorge.

The club’s chairman David Hancocks said this invitation is aimed primarily at retired folk or those who do not work full-time and have a reasonable level of fitness, such as they gym or walk often and who can walk at least 5km, and who enjoy social interaction with like-minded people.

Also read: Outdoor experiences to help you unwind

“Our weekly hikes are usually four hours in duration (from 08:00 to 12:00), and they are usually a slow meander with at least one 10–15 minute break during the hike. We allow two invitation hikes to decide whether or not this is meant for you; thereafter, you are required to join Amblers Hiking Club.”

The club has several members over the age of 70 years and at least one over 80.

“Remember, there is always someone close by to assist you. Why not come and give it a try?” asked Hancocks.

He said there are seven different waterfalls in Giba Gorge and probably 20 different hiking trails.

Hancocks encouraged people to try hiking as it is gaining traction. “It is a sport or pastime that is accessible to everyone.

“Local hiking has a very low capital outlay, as any shoes, clothes, hat or stick will do. Sunscreen in summer is useful, and our local hiking destinations await.”

Hikers at a waterfall in Giba Gorge.

Highway residents have approximately 30 hiking destinations to choose from. Describing the joy of being an avid hiker, Hancocks mentioned that it is all about the outdoors, exploring fault lines and the ruggedness and intense beauty of the natural world.

“The perks are always the inner peace gained from the outdoors and fabulous health benefits as fitness improves,” he said.

Upcoming hikes:

The club will hike the Palmiet Nature Reserve, Old New Germany Road, opposite Westville Hotel on Sunday, January 7 at 14:00. Hike under the canopy of trees to Helicopter Rock and Cascade. Contact David on 072 615 0559.

Hike Delvillewood/Kirk Waterfall from the train tracks and tunnels to the beautiful waterfall on mainline on Sunday, January 14. Meet at the Assagay Hotel verge at 14:00. It will cost R30pp for the car guards. Contact David on 072 615 0559.

Join an easy hike at Giba Gorge Mountain Bike Park every Wednesday at 08:00. WhatsApp Mandy on 083 235 6123. Hikes are now for members only. New members are welcome, and membership costs R150 per year per family.

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Sanelisiwe Tsinde

My name is Sanelisiwe Tsinde, and I'm a mother of two boys and very family-oriented. Being a community journalist for years, I can proudly say I love writing about positive community news articles and giving a voice to the voiceless. Seeing people getting assistance warms my heart. Every day is a different challenge and a new learning opportunity. I supply news for our trusted publication weekly, and a few years ago, Caxton ventured into online publication, so I contribute daily to the websites. I could say I am a multimedia journalist, and working in a community newspaper is beneficial as we do not focus on one thing but we do a bit of everything.

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