The Dome and West Peak, Helderberg Nature Reserve, Somerset West

Calling all experienced hikers! We're organizing a thrilling adventure to conquer the Dome and West Peak in Somerset West. This 15 km hike will push your limits with a demanding incline of over 1000 meters, taking you through stunning alpine terrain with awesome views.
Helderberg Nature Reserve is situated in Somerset West on the slopes of the beautiful Helderberg Mountain overlooking False Bay, teeming with life and offers a true break-away from the city rush.

Hike Details:
- Circular 15 km hike.
- Elevation gain: approximately 1040 meters.
- Grade 3B-3C hike
- Duration: 7-8 hours, depending on length of rest breaks.
- Difficulty: Expert hike, very good fitness required, sure footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

Basic agenda:
From the carpark, we follow the Siskin trail to the Sunbird Trail which leads to the beautiful new Waboom trail. The Waboom trail gradually ascends until we reach Disa Gorge. Porcupine Ridge takes us further uphill to the saddle between West Peak and The Dome. Here we will branch right and follow the contour path to reach a steep rocky incline.
After ascending the gorge, we will rest a while at the small saddle next to The Dome, with magnificent views across the Helderberg valley. Next comes another steep trek to finally reach the rocky summit. At the top, you will need to spend another half an hour hiking along the spine of The Dome to the highest point. This is where the path is the least well marked due to large boulders strewn all over the area. Look out for the cairns and you should be fine.
We will descend by the same route. It is very easy to get lost among the huge boulders. Once we are back at the saddle between The Dome and West Peak, we will summit West Peak and descend at the western side.
This is not difficult although you definitely do need to be prepared to scramble in a couple of places.
If visibility is not good, make sure you keep an eye on where you have come from so you can find your way back.
Woodie's Walk is eventually reached after descending West Peak, which brings us to the Leopard Loop jeep track and the Protea Trail. Just after a bench, we will take the Mongoose track and lastly follow the Batis Trail back to the carpark.

Precautions: Please treat the mountain with respect and take suitable precautions when hiking:

• Wear suitable footwear. Boots are highly recommended for these longer trails
• Do not attempt on a cloudy day.
• Take short breaks at regular intervals.
• This hike should take the average, fit hiker about 7hrs.
• Take sufficient water to drink
• Take warm clothing – the weather changes quickly at higher altitudes
• Wear a hat and use sunblock
• Take snacks but please no littering. Bring back your rubbish!
• No fires under any circumstances
• Start early!
• In case of an unforeseen accident, it is recommended that you do not walk on your own
• Take your cellphone with you and be sure to have the emergency number for Wilderness Search And Rescue with you: 021 937 0300

Highlights:

• This circular trail is a combination of a few short sections of trails namely: Siskin trail, Sugarbird Walk, Watsonia Trail, Waboom Trail, The Dome and West Peak trail (Pink trail), Woodies Walk, Protea trail, Mongoose trail and lastly the Batis Trail.
• Enjoy spectacular views from Helderberg Dome (1137m) and West Peak (1003m)

Fee to join hike:

• R50. Cash on the day, EFT on the day; or via PayShap: 074 449 7464, M Carstens, Capitec.
• R30 entrance fee at Helderberg Nature Reserve, R20 per vehicle.

Name of Acc: Boland Adventures
Capitec Savings account nr: 173 138 2780
Branch code: 470010
Reference: Your name and Dome.

Bring along: appropriate clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, a first-aid kit, extra food and water, sun protection.

Indemnity: When attending this hike you indicate that you have read and accepted our Indemnity as below.
Please inform Marius or Elaine of any medical conditions before the hike.

WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY, ASSUMPTION OF RISK, AND INDEMINITY AGREEMENT.