The Steenbras Nature Reserve in Cape Town, Western Cape. Image: X/@Mufasa.
Steenbras River Gorge and Crystal Pools hiking trails remain closed
Bookings for the popular Steenbras River Gorge and Crystal Pools hiking trails in Cape Town will not be accepted this season – Here’s why.
The Steenbras Nature Reserve in Cape Town, Western Cape. Image: X/@Mufasa.
The City of Cape Town has confirmed that the Steenbras River Gorge and Crystal Pools hiking trail will remain closed for this hiking season.
This is due to extensive damage caused by the storm over the long weekend in September.
STEENBRAS RIVER GORGE AND CRYSTAL POOLS HIKING TRAIL CLOSED
The City of Cape Town said the storm over the long weekend of 24 September resulted in severe flooding of the Steenbras Nature Reserve and along Clarence Drive near Gordon’s Bay.
Rivers have been diverted and entire sections of the Steenbras River Gorge and Crystal Pools hiking trail have been washed away, and will take some time to repair.
As such, the municipality will not accept bookings for Steenbras River Gorge this hiking season.
WATCH: Three killed, scores injured in Cape Town after crosswind overturns bus
SEVERE DAMAGE TO CLARENCE DRIVE
Furthermore, the City of Cape Town said the free of charge Klipspringer hiking trail remains closed due to no public access given severe damage to Clarence Drive
The free Danie Miller hiking trail in Gordon’s Bay is open, but should be used with caution due to strong flowing streams and loose, slippery rocks, the city added.
Deputy Mayor and Mayoral Committee Member for Spatial Planning and Environment, Alderman Eddie Andrews said they normally open bookings for the Steenbras Gorge on 1 October annually.
“Unfortunately, given the feedback from reserve staff, we have decided to accept no bookings for this hiking season. This is due to flooding and damage to the hiking trail. It will take considerable time to do the necessary repairs. We will keep the public informed, and apologise in advance for the disappointment,” he said.
