The Silver Tree Forest from Price Drive to Vlakkenberg

Join us on an exhilarating journey through a picturesque kloof, wander beneath the shimmering canopy of silver trees, and ascend towards the majestic peaks of Vlakkenberg, where sweeping panoramas will leave you breathless.

On the lower slopes of Vlakkenberg, just above Groot Constantia, lies a remarkable silver tree forest—its existence largely thanks to the dedication of Alf Morris.
Together with a team of volunteers, Alf worked tirelessly to clear vast swathes of invasive vegetation from these hillsides.
Sixty years ago, silver trees blanketed Vlakkenberg, and in spring the mountain blushed with the pink blossoms of ericas.

Hike details:
- Distance: 11km, circular
- Total elevation gain: +/- 700m
- Grade 3A hike
- Duration: approximately 6-7 hours, depending on length of rest breaks.
- Difficulty: Good fitness required with mild rock scrambling sections.
Sure footedness required.

Basic agenda:
The hike begins and ends at a right-hand bend near the end of the Price Drive cul-de-sac. The trail soon leads into a picturesque wooded kloof, winding and twisting until it joins a seldom-used path. Hiking sticks prove useful as you tackle the steep steps that rise towards a contour path, where shimmering silver trees surround you in every direction. At another T-junction, the route turns left, guiding you into the final ascent towards the summit of Vlakkenberg.
We’ll pause briefly at a scenic viewpoint atop a plateau before continuing along a path that winds through dense protea bushes. From there, the trail descends gently towards Constantia Nek, where it merges with the Hoerikwaggo Trail.
The Hoerikwaggo Trail climbs steeply before leveling out as we join this path. Before heading further south, we’ll make a short detour to a koppie on the right, where striking rock formations and massive boulders surround a trig beacon, waiting to be explored.
Heading further south, the trail winds through beautiful fynbos vegetation, descending along a neatly packed stone path. It leads to a wetland crossing, before arriving at a crossroad where we continue further south until a tarred road is reached.
This tarred Service Road climbs towards the radio masts above Constantiaberg. At this intersection, we take two consecutive left turns, leading us back to the wetland we crossed earlier. From there, we retrace our steps along the familiar path before taking a detour to the trig beacon at Vlakkenberg Peak, where sweeping views once again awaits.
The path continues through dense protea bushes, at times forming a natural tunnel, until we reach a T-junction. Here, we turn right to begin the descent back into the silver tree forest. Take care along this stretch, as the loose gravel can be tricky. Once among the silver trees again, we pass the plaque honoring Alf Morris before completing the hike at the Price Drive cul-de-sac.

Fee to join hike: R70.
Non-South Africans: cash only for facilitation fee.
SA: Cash on the day or EFT on the day:
Name of Acc: Boland Adventures
Capitec Savings account nr: 173 138 2780
Branch code: 470010
Reference: Your name + Silvertree
Please inform Marius or Elaine of any medical conditions before the hike.

Bring along:
Water, snacks, coffee/tee,
sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat)
layers, (a light jacket or fleece depending on weather)
emergency items, (whistle, multi-tool, and a small flashlight or headlamp)

Safety is a team effort:
The hike leader is dedicated to guiding you safely, but your safety is a collective responsibility. To ensure everyone's well-being, please remain with the group at all times and follow instructions. Let's work together to make this a safe and enjoyable hike for all.

Indemnity: When attending this hike you indicate that you have read and accepted our Indemnity as below.

The participant understands that adventure activities (including but not limited to hiking, climbing, camping, water sports, and outdoor excursions) carry inherent risks of injury, illness, or property damage. The Participant voluntarily chooses to participate, fully aware of these risks. The participant waives and releases the organizer from liability for ordinary negligence relating to the inherent risks of adventure activities. The participant agrees to follow all safety instructions, rules, and directions given by the organizer. Misbehavior, including reckless conduct, substance abuse, or harassment, may result in removal from the event without refund. The participant confirms they are physically fit and have disclosed any relevant medical conditions. The organizer may require medical clearance for certain activities. The participant acknowledges that personal accident or medical insurance is their own responsibility. The participant agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the organizer against any claims, damages, or expenses arising from:
the participant’s own misconduct, negligence, or breach of rules, damage caused to property or injury to other participants due to the participant’s actions.