2009 Experience (still being updated)

The Trail and associated facilities are world-class. The new Otter Room at the start of the trail, right at the entrance to the park, is next to a dedicated parking area meters from the hike. No more parking at the chalets hoping for the best and enough overcast days to stop the vinyl from cracking!

Day 1
Otter Room to Ngubu Huts; 4.8km (is this still correct?)

Start of the trail at the Otter Hut and wind through a forest area on a well-maintained and very welcoming path. Exit the forest just above the 'cave' 1.6km from the start, this is a good spot for a tea break. Climb the wooden steps and then head towards lunch at the Waterfall, 2.8km from the start. Stop for lunch and then head for the huts. At Ngubu expect 2 huts (sleep 6 each), great views, a braai-shelter, outdoor fireplaces at the huts, a loo with a view of the sea and a shower.

Day 2
Ngubu (08:00) to Scott (16:30); 7.9km; 8.5 hrs, including a long lunch and rests.

This is a great day, with lots of time spent walking in the forest. The trail climbs and drops constantly but take your time to enjoy all that the day has to offer.

Stop for a break at Skilderkrans, climbing to the top of the krans to enjoy the spectacular views. Stop for a breakfast of scrambled eggs and bacon rolls at at the first water point (2.3km). At about the 6km mark turn off the path to the left (down) and head for Blue Bay. It's pristine, secluded and the best lunch spot on the trail. The climb down is a little slippery after or during rain so be careful. There is always a strong rip current in the bay so be careful if you decide to swim here. The climb out of Blue Bay to the path is a bit of a scramble and once you're on the path you'll continue climbing straight up to about 180m. The next stop is Kleinbos River. This is a good swimming spot, if you head to the left of the path as you hit the river and over the rocks that shield the river from view. Swim far enough and you'll get to the sea. The Scott huts (which are on the beach, the map suggests they're at 80m) have a loo with a view, a shower and the same cooking set up as Ngubu (and all the other huts).

Day 3

Scott (07:00) to Oakhurst (12:20); 7.7km; 5.3 hrs

The day is much as the previous one with one notable climb that seems to pass the very finger of God. From the top of the climb the view is truly astounding and the exhaustion of the climb is soon forgotten. Not as long as the climb out of Blue Bay. Stop for tea at Elandsbos River with its wide beach and almost mysterious river. Take some time to head upstream to swim and look for otter and monkey/baboon prints. Try to cross the Lottering at low(ish) tide. The river isn't as bad as the Bloukrans but it's stony and with the waves crashing about makes for a bit of a swim. Follow the instructions on the map as they're still relevant. At the huts head for the rocks overlooking the sea and look for otters in the surf. Facilities at Scott are as for the other huts.

Day 4

Oakhurst (05:00) to Andre' (14:00); 13.8km; 9 hrs, includes the Bloukrans River crossing.

The Bloukrans River crossing should be attempted at low tide (they say) and so most hikers try to cover the 10km from the huts to the river in time to do that.

There's a famous rock pool early on on this day. As you climb one of the first rises, you'll look down the path and see a rocky outcrop that looks somewhat like a broken ship's hull. Catch your breath here and if it's sunny and not too frothy consider jumping off the 'hull' into the pool below.

The 10km to 'the river' are not difficult, stop for a bite at the Kraaibek, after 6 or 7km, and keep an eye out for otters. At the Bloukrans River the recommended 'A' route invloves a lengthy swim when the sea is in. The little channel where you'll wash ashore is littered with large boulders. Routes 'B' and 'C' are manageable. Try to use 'B' as the little cove/cave to the right of it makes for a tricky traverse when the waves are crashing about. On both of these routes, TRAVERSE, don't climb up and use the rope hanging halfway up the rock face.

The last few kms to the huts are not a walk in the park. Getting from the river to a decent path involves climbing up some sheer rock faces. There are ample hand and foot holds. Again, don't use the rope. By the time you get to Andre' you'll be ready for a shower and a close encounter with one of the tame buck that seem to be part and parcel of this spot.

Oakhurst has the same facilities as the rest.