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4 of the best hiking routes to try out in<br />
Mpumalanga<br />
Num-Num Hiking Trail<br />
This is a self-guided, multi-day hike that takes you through<br />
immeasurably diverse topography, from ancient grasslands and<br />
magnificent waterfalls to sandstone mazes and indigenous<br />
forests. This is the terrain of the Highland escarpment, and<br />
there is abundant bird and wildlife to see all along the way.<br />
There are a few steep bits requiring moderate fitness, and the<br />
36,5km hike can be completed over three, four or five days.<br />
From R220 per person, per day.<br />
Details: 082-950-2417/071-710-8835<br />
Blyderivierspoort Hiking Trail<br />
Arguably one of the most beautiful hikes in the <strong>Lowveld</strong>, this<br />
trail runs through the third largest canyon in the world. A total<br />
of 60km long, it starts at God’s Window and ends at Bourke’s<br />
Luck. Along the way you will encounter magnificent views and<br />
a diverse range of fauna and flora.<br />
Details: 013-759-5373/013-759-5432 or reservations@mtpa.co.za<br />
Fanie Botha Hiking Trail<br />
Stretching along the Drakensberg escarpment, Fanie<br />
Botha incorporates several waterfalls such as Mac Mac and<br />
Lone Creek. One of the longer several-day hiking trails in<br />
Mpumalanga, there are three options - a two-day, three-day<br />
or five-day type. The hike can be strenuous, especially in the<br />
summer heat, and is best done during the cooler months of<br />
spring or autumn. R150 per person.<br />
Details: 013-754-2724<br />
Queen Rose Hiking Trail<br />
Nestled between Barberton and eManza (Badplaas) in the<br />
Nelshoogte Forest Reserve, you’ll find the Queen Rose Hiking<br />
Trail, a haven for nature and bird lovers. Meandering between<br />
the mountains of the eastern escarpment where the Queen<br />
and Montrose rivers meet, the 26km, two-day hike passes<br />
through timber plantations, indigenous forest, over mountain<br />
passes, and along the Queens River, incorporating river<br />
crossings, a suspension bridge, and natural pools. For a day<br />
hiker, it is R90 per person. One-night stayover costs R320 per<br />
person and a two-night stayover is R440 per person.<br />
Details: 072-604-960.<br />
4of the best backpack<br />
collections from which to choose<br />
The Thule AllTrail collection is a must for a day hike,<br />
as it gives you a singular pack for all your hiking needs.<br />
An adjustable torso fit is built into the back panel and<br />
combined with breathable shoulder straps, hipbelt<br />
padding and back panel to make even the toughest<br />
day hike extra comfortable - and allow you to stay cool.<br />
All your gear is within reach thanks to the easy access<br />
side zippers and front shove-it pocket. The dedicated<br />
hydration sleeve frees up space for other essentials<br />
like keys and snacks. There’s even an integrated rain<br />
cover. This versatile all-rounder is available in men and<br />
women specific models and comes in various sizes for<br />
you to choose what works best for you.<br />
For something more lightweight, look at the Thule<br />
Stir range. A simple, clean design offers quick<br />
access via the top zippered mesh pocket and über<br />
organization for all your items. If you want it even<br />
more streamlined, simply remove the sternum strap<br />
and hip belt. Stash water bottles and other essentials<br />
in the expandable side pockets. With a weather<br />
resistant coated nylon fabric and the breathable<br />
backpanel and shoulder straps to keep you cool, it is<br />
a bag that will see you through all seasons of outdoor<br />
adventures. Again, different sizes and men and women<br />
specific models.<br />
For the ultimate in comfort, opt for the Thule<br />
Capstone collection. The tensioned mesh back<br />
panel provides unparalleled breathability, keeping<br />
you cool on your trail, while the high-visibility rain<br />
cover keeps your gear dry during storms. There’s<br />
even a customizable hipbelt that is compatible<br />
with interchangeable VersaClick accessories (sold<br />
separately). There are a host of pockets – on the top<br />
and the side – to keep all your items for the day, no<br />
matter how many family members you are keeping<br />
things for. You can even lash gear to the front of the<br />
pack using the durable button hole webbing.<br />
If you’re hiking with young kids the Thule Sapling<br />
(and Sapling Elite) is an absolute lifesaver. This child<br />
carrier is safe and comfy, plus quick and easy to adjust<br />
to fit both parents, so you can take turns carrying.<br />
On-the-go adjustments are made even easier, as<br />
you can load your child from the top or the side of<br />
the carrier. The deployable sunshade means that<br />
your precious cargo is protected from the harsh sun.<br />
Store water, nappies, clothes and other bigger items<br />
in the zippered compartment and use the extra<br />
roomy zippered mesh pockets for emergency items<br />
like snacks, toys and keys. The ergonomic seat is<br />
height adjustable - the Elite model even comes with<br />
removable stirrups for your little one to rest their feet<br />
on and a viewing mirror – and a breathable padded<br />
backpack and support at critical contact points for<br />
you. All this means a cool and comfortable trail for<br />
everyone. Details: Available online from thule.com<br />
November <strong>2020</strong> Get It Magazine 37
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