Cathedral Peak State Forest, Drakensberg, KwaZulu-Natal
Cathedral Peak State Forest encompasses a number of the most dramatic peaks in the Drakensberg Mountain Range in KwaZulu-Natal. The towering Cathedral Peak dominates this part of the range accompanied by the Outer Horn, Inner Horn, Bell and the Chessmen most of which are around 3000m in height.
The State Forest extends to the Upper Tugela Location in the north and to the Mdededelo Wilderness in the south. The two well known peaks, the Column and the Pyramid are situated south of the Cathedral Peak Forest Station but it’s Cathedral Peak itself that provides the best opportunity for mountain climbers and hikers to see the spectacular views from the summit over Cathkin Peak to the south and the Eastern Buttress to the north.
This area is popular because of the fact that you can reach the Little Berg by vehicle via a 10.5km 4×4 track called Mike’s Pass. The track ends at the Arendsig Gate which is the starting point for the well known Ndedemo Gorge, the Organ Pipes and the Escarpment.
The Cathedral Peak Hotel, nestled at the foot of these giant peaks, was established way back in 1936 and is today one of the most popular destinations in the entire Drakensberg region. Apart from its iconic status as a great place for family holidays, the owners make a major contribution to the social fabric of the area by supporting 5 high schools, 7 primary schools and 3 pre-primary schools. In fact, the owners and staff personally sponsor the school fees for 173 orphans and children for under-privileged families. They also play a major role in preserving the ecology of this pristine area.
Getting there: click here for a map and detailed directions.
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