Written by Alison Chadwick
This hike in the beautiful Karkloof a mere 20kms from Howick in the KZN Midlands encompasses 3 major waterfalls namely Grey Mare’s Tail Falls (101m), Karkloof Falls (105m), and ends at Howick Falls (111m).
Our group of 10 intrepid hikers met at their accommodation on the Friday. We were welcomed by a wonderful spread of snacks and drinks.
Julia has prepared dinner for us. Rob on our hike said her cheesecake was the best he’d ever tasted. We are all a bit nervous not knowing just what to expect, but Julia assures us that all will be well. She didn’t lie!!
Day 1 – 11kms – steep terrain
We awoke on Saturday to a glorious sunrise all amped and ready to roll. After a delicious breakfast we set off at 8am through the forest following old logging trails. It was a tough 4km pull to reach the escarpment where we enjoyed spectacular views and a picnic lunch overlooking the stunning Karkloof Valley and Mount Gilboa. We followed the hiking path crossing back over the Grey Mare’s Stream which eventually led us to a magnificent view of the Grey Mare’s Tail Waterfall.
After a short snack break, we continued to follow the path on the top of the escarpment, we were fortunate to see some buck grazing in the grassland. Later that day we started our descent back into the forest and returned home on another forest path and through the cool pines.
Day 2 – 10-15kms – moderate terrain
After a delicious breakfast we drove up the road to start the morning with the Karkloof Canopy Tour which took approximately 2 hours. The Karkloof Canopy Tour consists of 12 platforms and 10 zip-line slides, the longest of which is 200m! It was spectacular to gain a ‘birds-eye’ view of both inside and above the mistbelt forest canopy.
After an exhilarating canopy tour, we self-drove to the Karkloof Polo club to start our hike to the Karkloof Falls. Following an exclusive and specially curated hiking trail along the Karkloof River we meandered to the spectacular picnic site at the mighty Karkloof Falls. I am embarrassed to say I had never seen the Karkloof Falls before, a magnificent waterfall in the most beautiful setting. Most fitting for a scrumptious lunch and cream tea. With heavy bellies, we concluded the last part of the hiking trek walking adjacent to the Umngeni valley before turning inland to arrive at our next night’s accommodation.
Day 3 – 8-12 kms – easy terrain
After another delicious continental breakfast, we set off into the Umgeni Valley Nature Reserve with the most unbelievable views. After approximately 12 km of a circular trail hiking along the ridges and valley of Umngeni River, we finished the day with an impressive view of Howick Falls. A harvest lunch and a glass of champagne where we toasted to 3 wonderful days, great friendships made, and Julia’s birthday!
I covered 35 kms on the 3 days and I can now say I have conquered the Karkloof. A hidden gem on our doorstep. Thank you to Julia from Spekboom Tours and her team of helpers Ingrid and Tiegue for a most enjoyable 3 days of slackpacking – well done on another highly recommended hike!
