Uitkyk Hiking Trail, Hartbeespoort Dam, Magaliesberg
STRICTLY BY PRE-BOOKING ONLY. Contact https://fagalavoet.co.za/
Not only is the Uitkyk Hiking Trail within the border of the magnificent Magaliesberg Protected Natural Environment just above Schoemansville, but it has stunning views over the Hartbeespoort Dam and surrounding mountains, rock pools, and natural woodlands. It also crosses the Rissik Estates with its beautiful citrus orchards and is home to black eagles and Cape griffin vultures. The 7.5km (4-5 hours) moderate to difficult (with a few optional extreme sections) circular trail, is well marked and starts off from the secure car park.
The route follows a path from the car park, via a culvert, under the R560. After about 10 minutes, you will arrive at a small stream (not for swimming) and the trailhead. The ascent takes you to spectacular views from the top, a welcome reward for the exertion.
The Hartbeespoort Dam stretches out before you and if you look down the near-vertical rock face, you get a birds-eye view of Schoemansville.
The trail now heads for the big, dome-shaped mountains that overshadow the path taking you up the mountainside along the side of a kloof, for three kilometers. The path is rugged and zigzags along ledges in places as it ascends, so if you suffer from a fear of heights, you might have a problem with this part of the trail.
There is a two-and-a-half kilometer descent. Although the way down is steep, it is fairly easy going and should be accomplished in about 45 minutes. From here, you re-join the outgoing trail for the last stretch, walk back through the culvert and back to the car park.
Although a really fit hiker could probably do this hike in half the time, take lunch and stop somewhere to soak in the views. Always take your water.
Trail Facts:
- On Saturdays, hikers may come across members of the Apostolic Church who have spent the night praying and fasting on the mountain, or members of the ZCC Church who collect holy water in this vicinity to perform purifying rituals
- Minimum group size requested 20 people – DO NOT WALK ALONE OR IN SMALL GROUPS PLEASE
- There is an easy route for the less fit and a scenic route for those seeking a challenge
- Facilities: fenced car park with toilets, showers and braais, but bring your own charcoal/wood.
- Do not walk over the R560 – use the tunnel
Location:
- In the vicinity of the Hartbeespoort Dam
- 30 km West of Pretoria
- 40 km North of Johannesburg
Length:
- ± 9 km
Duration:
- 4½ – 5½ hours.
Difficulty Rating:
- Moderate to challenging with a few optional extreme sections.
Facilities:
- Fenced and locked car park with flushing toilets, water and braai areas (bring own firewood).
Relevant information:
- Always pre-book – minimum number of 20 hikers per booking.
- A dry hike so carry at least 2 litres of water.
- Do not walk over the R513 – use the tunnel.
- Always walk in a party of at least 20 people.
- Please provide own camping chairs and fold up table (braai facilities at the car park at start/end of the trail)
Cost:
- R85.00 per person day visitors, minimum of 20 hikers per group
- R55.00 for kids
- R55.00 admin fee once off per reservation
Directions, trail map and gate code for car park will be given on the permit which is issued on receipt of confirmation of reservation.
Please consider your fellow hikers and adhere to the requests from trail owners. We are doing everything possible to create a safe hiking environment
Hiking is strictly by pre-booking to ensure safe access and assures hikers that they can experience the solitude and serenity of the mountains. More Info.
Telephone Number: 081 894 9802 / 0827765540
STRICTLY BY PRE-BOOKING ONLY. Contact https://fagalavoet.co.za/
The Uitkyk Trail is 30 km west of Pretoria and 50 km from Johannesburg, in the vicinity of the Hartbeespoort Dam.
GPS: S25 42.333 E27 50.714
| More info on the Johannesburg area |
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