Skeleton Gorge Hike
Route Overview
| Duration | 4 to 5 hours |
| Distance | 7–10 km/4–6 miles |
| Elevation | 800m/2600ft |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Price | R1,600 |
"You'll be pleased to know that there are no human skeletons in this Gorge."
What to expect from the Skeleton Gorge hike?
The Skeleton Gorge hike is one of the most diverse and rewarding hikes on Table Mountain. Beginning in the beautiful Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, the trail winds through ancient indigenous afromontane forest before climbing steeply through the dramatic gorge itself. As the forest gives way to open fynbos and sandstone cliffs, you’ll experience the mountain’s constantly changing landscapes and breathtaking scenery.
At the top, you’re rewarded with one of Table Mountain’s most unexpected sights, a sandy beach beside a historic mountain reservoir. From here, we can tailor the remainder of the hike to suit your preferences. Option one traverses further up and across to the front of the Table Mountain plateau before descending via the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, creating a 5–6 hour adventure. Alternatively, we can descend back into Kirstenbosch Gardens via another scenic route, allowing time to explore one of the world’s most celebrated botanical gardens.
The Trail
The route consists of a relatively steep ascent through the lush forest which includes some very light scrambling over rocks in a beautiful green riverbed. During the final sections of the ascent, we climb a few wooden ladders before reaching the summit and onto the “beach” of Table Mountain. After reaching the top of Skeleton Gorge, there are two ways to complete the hike, depending on the experience you’re looking for.
Option 1: Across Table Mountain & Cableway Down
Traverse up and across to the Table Mountain summit plateau via Maclear’s Beacon (the highest point on Table Mountain) before enjoying spectacular views over Cape Town as we make our way to the Upper Cableway for the descent.
- Distance: 8 km
- Elevation: 850 m (2,800 ft)
- Duration: 4–5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate (a good level of fitness is required)
Option 2: Nursery Ravine Loop
Explore the quieter eastern side of Table Mountain before descending via Nursery Ravine back into Kirstenbosch Gardens. This option involves less climbing and finishes where the hike began.
- Distance: 8 km
- Elevation: 550 m (1,800 ft)
- Duration: Approximately 4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
What level of fitness is required?
Moderate: Each hike that summits Table Mountain has relatively steep ascent so you must be comfortable with this. Your guide will adapt the pace to your level of fitness which ensures an enjoyable time on the mountain.
Where does the hike start and how do I get there?
Transport is available upon request or you can meet at the trailhead, which is; at Gate 2 at Kirstenbosch Gardens. We’ll communicate all these details during the booking process.
What's included?
- Professional guide
- Photos
- WhatsApp support
What makes Skeleton Gorge special?
The route starts in a lush indigenous forest, climbing through deep, cool ravines lined with majestic variations of trees, ferns and other vegetation. The wooden ladders add a different level of excitement and fun too. Then, the dramatic transition as we emerge from forest into a bright, open mountain top with breathtaking views. This hike really has it all.
**Enquire about discount for group bookings.