Day one starts from the rest camp where accommodation can be booked for before and after the hike as there is no provision for trialists at the start. The first part of the trail offers the hiker some incredible views of the falls and the river gorge. The trail hugs the side of the gorge for the first part of the hike before meandering its way across rugged, rocky terrain. From here the trail roughly follows the gorge to the Fish Eagle Hut. The area is rough and a good pair of hiking boots is recommended. Despite the sparseness of the vegetation some beautiful examples of flora are to be found along the route.
Day two starts with a short climb up the hill behind the hut before heading down a small valley into the gorge. It is recommended to walk slightly above the Orange River for the first couple kilometers in the gorge to avoid boulder climbing right along the water’s edge. The trail follows the Orange River approximately 3.7km to a position below the Eco Corner viewpoint. The wide drainage line you encounter after approximately 3 km past Echo Corner (see the Arendsnes landmark) will lead you to the Berghut (Mountain hut) Shortly after the trail joins a vehicle track you will see the hut to the left.
Day three follows the dirt road for a short while before heading towards Swartrante (Black Ridges). After crossing Swartrante, the trail follows roads periodically until reaching Moon Rock after which it joins the Dassie Trail for approximately the last 2.5km before reaching the rest camp.
A maximum of 12 hikers and minimum of 2 hikers can use the trail at any time. Booking requests are only accepted 11 months or less in advance. Accommodation for the nights prior to and upon completion of the hike, is not included in the trail reservation and must be reserved separately.
Hikers must be self-sufficient except for bunk beds, mattresses, firewood, braai grid, water for washing, kettle and a potjie which are provided. A flush toilet is also available. No electricity or showers are provided. The water on the trail is not suitable for human consumption and we suggest you provide your own or purify available water available at the overnight huts or from the river.
