With many Johannesburg residents destined for the coast this festive season, there will always be those who don’t have the luxury of getting out of town.
The good news is that Johannesburg has a beautiful selection of nature escapes right on its doorstep.
Here are four must-visit trails near the city that promise hikers (or trail runners) natural beauty, fresh air, and a touch of wildlife.
Cradle Moon Lakeside Game Lodge
Open daily, entrance fee R80 for hikers
Located within a 160-hectare conservancy in the Cradle of Humankind, Cradle Moon offers one of Johannesburg’s most picturesque hiking experiences. The 10km trail winds around a scenic dam, complete with a cascading resevoir wall.
There are options too for those seeking shorter hikes or mountain biking trails. Wildlife encounters are common, and visitors can even opt for a leisurely boat ride on the dam—home to hippos and various water birds.
Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve
Open daily, no entrance fee
The largest nature reserve in Johannesburg, Klipriviersberg offers a generous network of 12 trails. These hikes cater to all skill levels and lead into the reserve’s lush hills.
Hikers can challenge themselves on the red Sunbird Trail, or enjoy a more leisurely stroll along the river on the blue Bloubos Trail. Visitors should keep an eye out for zebras, antelopes, dassies, and eagles.
The reserve is also historically significant, with the discovery of Stone Age artifacts and the remnants of a 19th-century Voortrekker farm.
What is your favourite hiking trail in Gauteng?
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