Mowbray Ridge, Knife's Edge and Minor Peak from Rhodes Memorial
Details
Join us for an exhilarating 9km circular trail starting at Rhodes Memorial, winding past the historic King’s Blockhouse, and leading us to the thrilling Knife’s Edge and Minor Peak.
This hike is not for the faint-hearted — expect exposure to heights, steep climbs, and breathtaking views that will reward your courage and skill. If you love adventure, challenge, and the camaraderie of fellow mountain enthusiasts, this is the trail for you!
Hike details:
- 9 km cicular grade 3C expert hike with an total elevation gain of 700 meters.
- good fitness required
- sure footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Basic agenda:
Starting from the parking area at Rhodes Memorial, we follow a trail that gradually climbs over rocky terrain toward the Contour Path, crossing two gravel roads along the way. The path levels out before passing through a weathered, rusted turnstile that leads us to The King’s Blockhouse—a historic military outpost once used by the British to guard the Cape against Dutch invasion.
After a brief pause at the Blockhouse, we begin the ascent of Mowbray Ridge. This section demands careful scrambling and a steady head for heights, as the trail rises steeply past the ruined Fire Lookout, the Devil’s Peak Traverse, and the 700-Meter Traverse. Approaching Knife’s Edge, the ridge narrows dramatically, offering breathtaking views on either side of the slender ledge. Boulder hopping and scrambling bring us to a steep rock face just below Minor Peak, which we climb cautiously to reach the summit.
At the top of Minor Peak, we rest and take in the sweeping vistas before descending a rough, zigzagging trail that feels more like bushwhacking than following a marked path. This descent reconnects us with the 700-Meter Traverse, leading to the Saddle of Table Mountain and onward to Oppelskop, where we pause again to enjoy the spectacular scenery. From here, we continue toward the Contour Path, looping back past King’s Blockhouse just below Woodstock Cave. Finally, we retrace our familiar route to the Rhodes Memorial car park, completing the circuit.
Fee to join hike: 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 + Minor
Please inform Marius or Elaine of any medical conditions before the hike.
Bring along: Hat, food, coffee/tea/cooldrink/2 lt water, first aid kit, Rehidrat sachets, sturdy hiking boots.
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.
