PROPERTIES — NORTH WEST
Castle Gorge
"If you think you’ve peaked, find a new mountain."
Venue Information
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Venue Overview |
Castle Gorge is a hidden gem for hikers, featuring beautiful waterfalls, crystal clear pools and weathered rock formations that are great for swimming and photographing. There are also a few good trad climbs for die-hard climbers. |
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Permit / Permission info |
Paid-up MCSA members do not need permits. All non-members need to apply for permits to the Johannesburg Hiking Club (JHC). JHC will also supply directions and gate codes. For Permit Bookings: https://www.jhbhiking.co.za/castle-gorge |
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Approx travel time from Jhb |
60 minutes. |
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Parking info |
Shady and secure parking available. |
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Walk-in |
While the walk in to Castle Gorge is one of the longest, it’s also one of the most beautiful. A fairly steep walk from the car (with plenty of shade to rest under) levels onto a sunny plateau before dropping into the Gorge. The path is excellent which makes the going relatively easy and as such the hike can still be done in a comfortable hour. The final descent into the Gorge is a little tricky and exposed. |
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Accommodation |
Plenty of beautiful camping spots available next to the stream and pools. |
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Availability of drinking water |
Plenty of water available. |
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Climbing route guide |
MCSA Johannesburg Section has published a route guide of the rock climbs. |
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Climbing info |
Castle Gorge has 23 trad routes between 30 to 45 metres long ranging between grades 7 to 23. A few of the routes are star graded and very worthwhile doing. Descents are via gullies. |
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Child-friendly |
Yes, though the walk-in is long. |
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Swimming |
Yes, some great spots both above and within the Gorge. |
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Camp fires |
No fires permitted. |
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Other attractions | A photographer’s delight. |
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Dangers | The area above the waterfall is slippery and dangerous, and accidents have occurred. |
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Contact details |
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Disclaimer
Mountaineering, rock climbing, abseiling, hiking and other related activities are inherently dangerous and can lead to or cause serious injury, material loss and even death. The Mountain Club of South Africa advises that you only participate in these activities if you are competent to do so, or are under the guidance of an experienced person, and you are using the correct equipment. Any activity in which you participate, is done entirely at your own risk. The Mountain Club of South Africa accepts no liability or responsibility whatsoever for any accident, injury, death or material loss arising from participation in MCSA activities, no matter in what manner caused and whether allegedly due to negligence or not.