Yellowwood trail to the Saaltjie, Jonkershoek MTO, Stellenbosch

Grading: 2B, 14km
Situated in the Hottentots Holland mountain range on the outer edge of Stellenbosch, Jonkershoek MTO offers all types of outdoor enthusiasts with a world class trail network to explore and enjoy. A combination of gravel roads and tracks, takes you through a scenic route, ascending 600 meters to the bench at the Saaltjie, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains like Square Tower Peak, Twin Peaks, Virgin Peaks, Banhoek Peak, Stellenboschberg and the Jonkershoek valley below. You'll be surrounded by new plant growth and possibly sharing the trail with mountain bikers at some points. It's important to stay together and be mindful of your surroundings and uncoming traffic. Consider bringing a trekking pole to help with the ascent and any uneven terrain.

Basic agenda:
Starting at the carpark near the entrance of Jonkershoek MTO, we pick up the Yellowwood trail and follow this trail along the Lambrechts Kloof until a gravel road is reached. Turn right at a sign indicating the hikers footpath and continue further passing by a beautiful weir and keep following the Lambrechts Kloof river. The footpath gradually ascends to a gravel road that brings us to the Irish Climb Trail. The Irish trail is a dual-directional trail allowing for mountain bikers to climb up and trail runners/hikers to move in whichever direction they desire. Trail users need to be always aware of oncoming traffic. It is an easy, beautiful scenic trail for all levels of trail runners and hikers. Another gravel road is reached yet again and from here we head towards the bench at the Saaltjie. The views from the bench are magnificent and it is a perfect spot to have a coffee break while admiring the spectacular views across the valley. Just behind the bench, Square Tower Peak stands proud at 1126 meters.

After having lunch at Saaltjie, we head back with the same Irish Climb trail and connect with other footpaths passing through forestry and gradually descend along Bosboukloof and Abdolskloof.
Shortly before long we're back at Lambrechts Kloof where we started our hike and then finally to the carpark.

Fee to join hike: Permit fee: R65 paid at the gate of Jonkershoek MTO on the day of the event. Wildcards do not apply.
Facilitation fee: R70. 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, surname and Irish

Bring along: Hat, warm jacket, food, coffee/tea/cooldrink/2 lt water, First aid kit.
Rain cancels.

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.