OLDE WAGON
Run/Hike | 1.4 km | Easy
An easy round trip of about 1.4km. Go up the entrance road and you will find a derelict wagon on your right hand side after about 700m. This is part of an alternative road from Lydenburg to Pilgrims Rest which was used over 90 years ago. A lovely walk for young and old alike.
LOST CITY
Run/Hike | 3 km | Easy | 60 min
Over the years, wind and water erosion have carved beautiful shapes in the sandstone. Drive or walk the 3km along the entrance road to the old sand pit on your right. From there, follow the signs going east along the top of Mount Sheba. There is a bench with the most breathtaking view over the entire resort. Child friendly.
SHEBA LOOKOUT
Hike | 2 km | Easy
The viewpoint is 500m above both God's Window and Pilgrim's Rest. On a clear day, you can take in the Blyde River Canyon and Mariepskop to the north, and the Lebombo Mountains 130km to the east. Drive or walk along the main entrance road to the second hairpin bend outside the forest, then make your way east along the track on the side of Mount Sheba. From the hairpin bend, it is a 2km gentle walk. (Child friendly 5 years and older).
GOLA-GOLA TRAIL LINK WITH MARCOS MANTLE
Run/Hike | 1000 m | Easy | 1.5 h
Start beyond Cottage 1 and continue on the old farm road. Turn right at the small bridge and then right again at the sign which points to the right leading you onto the MARCOS MANTLE TRAIL. Climb over a few rocks and then continue on this trail by following the signs to the Marcos Mantle Waterfall. Turn around and take the same trail back to the resort. Child friendly. (5 years and older).
SAMANGO TRAIL
Run/Hike | 5 km | Moderate
About 1km up the entrance to your right. This path follows the top of the indigenous forest and a large segment of the reserve's wildlife may be seen. The trail is approximately 3.5km. It is possible to walk this trail as a circular route it you cut down on the link-up with Sheba Trail. Please note the trail down is very steep.
GOLA-GOLA
Run/Hike | 3.5 km | Moderate
An adventurous walk of approximately 3.5 km one way, crossing the stream 11 times. It has no steep climbs. Start beyond cottage 1 and continue along the old farm road. Turn right at the small bridge into the forest and continue with the trail until you reach a gate. After going through the gate the walk continues to the waterfall, where you can turn right and follow the same way back.
OLD DIGGINGS
Run/Hike | 500 m | Moderate
Many large old yellow-wood trees can be seen along this walk. The path crisscrosses the stream on numerous occasions. There are two old diggings on this walk; one about 500m, downstream and the other about 1km down. Between the two diggings some lovely pools are to be found. The walk can be done by making your way from the hotel along the farm road, and turning left to start the walk and return to the hotel the same way. Your hiking shoes might get a bit wet on this walk.
MARCO'S MANTLE
Run/Hike | 5 km | Moderate
A sensational circular walk of approximately 5km on which indigenous fauna and flora are to be seen in their full splendor. Start just past the petrol pump near reception, and follow the road into the forest. This trail has two waterfalls and links with the Gola Gola Trail which takes back to the resort past Cottage 1, Cottage 20 and Cottage 19 and ends behind the tennis court. Not recommended for people whom are scared of heights.
TROUT POOLS & ALOE POOLS
Run/Hike | 5 km | Advanced
This walk is about 5km, though it feels closer to 10. Starting at Cottage 5. As indicated by the names, there are many lovely pools on this walk which crisscrosses the stream. The walk to and beyond the Trout Pools takes you through a breath-taking gorge with cliffs towering above you. This is well recommended to our more energetic guests, but can be a great strain on anyone who isn't used to strenuous hiking. Please note that this walk is extremely steep.
WATERFALL TRAIL
Run/Hike | 4 km | Advanced
A beautiful walk, about 4km long, starting at Cottage 5. Upon reaching the falls, walk behind them and along the edge of the cliff up a short gully to a point above the falls. Continue to the Grotto and see the ferns. This walk will bring you out just above the petrol pump near reception. You can also start the walk by turning right into the forest just past the petrol pump. Please note that the walk is very steep.
HACKETT'S KITCHEN
Run/Hike | 1000 m | Advanced
Starting point at Cottage 5, from where you can follow the signs. En-route, you will pass a slate quarry, last in use well over 80 years ago by a prospector called Hackett, who camped in the area. The path is not circular, so you will need to return by the same trail. Please note that the walk is extremely steep. Not recommended for people who are scared of heights.