Looking down at the hotel from near the peak, soft grass, rugged rocks
Peaked and piqued—a really tough climb
Rock forms in the Golden Gate Highlands Park
We set out before breakfast for this hike. In fact, we walked a kilometer to the trailhead; we thought we’d give the car a rest. Sometimes we do some really dumb things; makes a change from the ordinary dumb things though. The trail began at the rest camp, climbed steeply to the Brandwag Buttress from the other side, descended to almost ground-level so we could cross a stream and then climbed over four mountains until we reached Wodehouse summit. It was hot but not uncomfortable. We don’t know if it was our fitness on the day but it was grueling in places. However, the sights were spectacular as once again we were always on the outside edge, our favorite position.
A different view from Wodehouse Peak
A steep and tricky descent but always with great views
We saw zebra, a wildebeest, antelope and the wonderful array of birds that inhabit this country. The baboons are always out in number on the mountains, often visiting the hotel, too. There is something quite special walking in the wilderness where animals roam in an uncontrolled environment while humans move about in a similar fashion—it beats the zoo. We have been lucky in avoiding snakes especially after some hikes in which we spent much time in tall and thick grass. In places, the undergrowth has been taller than ourselves.
Look closely to see some spring in its step
Although far down in the valley, they never took their eyes off us
Fascinating rocks, especially when one climbs them
Back to the hike on the way to the peak. We kept climbing and moving up steep paths. The view of the hotel below, like an oasis, grew smaller and smaller as we ascended—not surprisingly. The buttress we scaled the day before began to look like a bump rather than the incredible rock form it is. The trail was good on the way to the peak including the ridge, another of Jenni’s favorites. However, shortly after the descent began, surprisingly it is a loop, the going got rough over the rocks. In places, it looked like the trail builders decided: Enough now, you’re on your own. It was a good test and we’ll say to the designer: ‘You’ve made a great trail but you’ll have to try harder should you wish to intimidate our editor.’
Jenni stops for a break as she ascends with much gusto on the day; husband undertakes some great whines
Circling the mountain as we rise to summit from the side. Stops briefly for a whine
The peak sits at 7,225 feet, with a cumulative elevation gain of over 3,000 feet. The trail is not long but very steep in places, making the going slow. With the additional walk to the trailhead, we did a little more than ten kilometers. This is the first hike in a long time in which the aches and stiffness did not disappear soon after completion. The verdict is that it’s a tough but must-do hike.
Editor pulls herself up, saving energy to haul up husband next
We mentioned impressions of South Africa, outside of hiking, so we’ll ease up on commentary as we sign off but for one more comment. Suffice to say, on the positive, it is a country with enormous potential, many wonderful people and outstanding beauty but…
We finally met Stan Smookler, after a forty-year gap (how time flies). Stan is an encyclopedia of knowledge of the South African Jewish Community. For those born during the computer explosion age, see ‘Bing or ‘Google’ for an understanding of encyclopedia.
Finally, " Mr. Shabbos Man"
Taking in the view of summit as we descend
We saw many friends and family on this trip. Bernice Dorfman and Lindy Hoffman are two women in whose company we felt very humble. They are truly inspirational. Thanks to Hil and Ernie, Gillian, Les and Jeff, Sharon and Colyn, always Mario, Johan, Lionel, Barbara and David, Helen and Jules and Lynn; we hope we haven't omitted anyone. A special thanks and continued good health to Mom.
Once again, we would like to thank, actually more than thank, those who took the time to offer us advice, suggestions as well as writing some very nice things. Thank you, indeed.
We’ll put on a separate slideshow on the blog soon and look forward to seeing you either in person or on hike-about 12, commencing during the latter part of next month.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
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