Skeleton Gorge Trail

From the top of table mountain down to Kirstenbosch. The way is demanding going down the river bed of the Skeleton Stream. A part is directly in the river bed a part is with wooden ladders.

Interesting climb up to Table Mountain, with a spectacular view of the southern coastal region of Cape Town.

The route follows a stream from Kistenbosch Gardens, to the top of Table Mountain. The path is quite steep, and includes steps and ladders which makes for an interesting hike. Some places need hand grips and the surface can be slippery due to water or loose gravel. At the top, the area is relatively flat and you can hike around and the three small dams, and visit the stone quarry museum.

There are many routes to take once at the top. Go down back the same route, or take the stairs down nursery gorge back to Kirstenbosch. For an extra challenge you can hike to the cable car station at the top of Table Mountain, or take a long route down to Constantia. For an extreme challenge, go all the way up to Devil's peak.

The mountain area is not large and the peak is at relatively low altitude (1000m), however Table Mountain can experience heavy mist and clouds, high winds, rain, and snow, so take care and use common sense. It is not too easy to get lost in clear weather, although distances are longer than they look due to the rough terrain. Go with a group of people, take plenty of water, only visit during clear weather, and stay within your personal abilities.

My favorite time to visit is during the rainy season, from June to October, when the gorge has running water, although extra care needs to be taken as the path becomes slippery in places. Summer months tend to be excessively hot (34℃), so it is best to go early morning, or early evening (after 6pm).

The river bed can be used wonderfully on the Rtg Tafelberg trail and is easier to walk than the stairways.