Cederberg Opens Trails Just in Time for the Season!
After a long and exceptionally wet winter, landowners and park managers in the Western Cape have faced unprecedented challenges. While Cape Town has always been known for its stormy weather, this year felt more like the “Cape of Floods.” We’ve witnessed rivers overflowing, roads washed away, and on our beloved trails, there have been mudslides, erosion, and flash flooding.
The resilience and dedication of landowners and park managers in the aftermath of these storms have been nothing short of remarkable. Their task is to ensure the safety of visitors and swiftly implement maintenance plans to reopen the trails.
At Love Our Trails, we joined forces with Cape Nature and Driehoek to mobilise volunteer teams, comprised of seasoned guides, to conduct thorough assessments of the major Cederberg trails. Cape Nature responded immediately, launching into action to rebuild and maintain the trails. Yet, with the extent of the damage, repairing all the trails in time for the summer hiking season would have been an insurmountable feat for Cape Nature alone.
Dawie Burger, from Driehoek Guest Farm, took charge, assembling a team composed of his dedicated staff, individuals from Algeria, Dwarsrivier and Cape Nature rangers. Together, they undertook the task of constructing a bridge across the river at Welbedacht trail, rebuilding the trail from the Maltese Cross parking lot to the bridge, rebuilding the bridge itself, and clearing the path to Sneeuberg Hut.
Thanks to Dawie’s unwavering determination and the tireless efforts of the team, Section C of the Cederberg, the Sneeuberg side, is now welcoming visitors. This achievement stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and community spirit.
The work doesn’t end here. Presently, the team is focused on the Duiwelsgat Trail.
We’re also actively engaged in formalising a structure for trail enthusiasts to contribute their time or resources towards trail maintenance in the Cederberg area. Stay tuned to Love Our Trails’ social media channels for more information on how you can get involved.
With the dedication of individuals like Dawie and the collective efforts of all those involved, we’re looking forward to a season of unforgettable trail experiences in the heart of the Cederberg. Let’s continue to cherish and protect these natural treasures that bring us so much joy!
