De Wildt Adventure Trails - keeping my dream of a sunset hike burning bright!

Recently Salt and I finally embarked on the much anticipated trail at De Wildt Adventure Trails in Brits.

I had spent the previous couple of weeks pondering over whether to do a half-day hike, one-day adventure, or the grand two-day expedition? Look at me…. sounding like a seasoned adventurer! It's a skill in itself, isn't it?

Despite not yet having tackled a full-day or two-day hike, I hope my enthusiasm is shining through!

To decide, I had delved deep into the world of De Wildt, immersing myself in its wonders. So I had familiarised myself with De Wildt more than I would normally have with other trails.

I've come to realize that places like these are more than just hiking spots—they're full-fledged adventures waiting to unfold. But this destination holds something special.

Beyond the trails there is the lodge. A whole other experience to be had. To be perfectly honest, we would need a weekend to explore everything this place has to offer…..definitely will go back when we have more time.

So, bright and early as always, Salt and I sauntered up to the map of the trails at De Wildt Adventure Trails. As expected, we immediately found ourselves in a room temperature debate about which length trail to tackle of the Peglerae Trail. It seemed simple enough, either 6.5 km or 9 km, depending on your level of ambition.

Naturally, I, the fearless explorer, championed the 9 km route, eager to soak in every ounce of adventure. But Salt, for reasons known only to him and possibly a desire to go to a car dealer in the afternoon, inexplicably favoured the shorter 6.5 km option.

After a brief bout of sulking on my part and some strategic eye-rolling, Salt finally caved, and he reluctantly agreed to embark on the 9 km journey.

As we started, we saw a lovely little picnic area, nestled amongst the trees. I felt, due to my high expectations, it was going to be an underwhelming experience. And, in a moment of sheer brilliance, I decided to vocalize these concerns to Salt, complete with a whispered rendition of the word "underwhelming."

“Why whisper?” he asked.

"To avoid offending anyone," I muttered sheepishly.

But leave it to Salt to point out that there was no one around for miles.

Fast forward a bit, and there I was, suddenly transformed into the trail's number one fan, raving about the rock formations like they were the eighth wonder of the world. Their unique shapes made navigating the terrain far easier to grip.

It was at this time that Salt couldn't resist the chance to mimic my whispered doubts with impeccable timing, right down to matching my hushed tone. Brave considering we had reached the top of the stunning climb.

Unlike some trails where you're limited to a single-sided view, this one treats you to a full 360-degree spectacle. As you ascend, the landscape unfolds before you in a breathtaking panorama.

But just when you think you've seen it all, reaching the summit reveals an entirely new perspective, a different world waiting to be discovered. It's like getting two trails for the price of one, each offering its own unique charm and character.

So still reeling from the trauma of being short changed of a full distance hike last week, I was quite chuffed that I had won the distance debate earlier....or I thought I had.

On approaching the split, Salt took it upon himself to inform me that we "had only walked 1,5 km so far". I did exactly what he needed me to do, which is splutter in disbelief and, ultimately, agree to the shorter trail.

Only once I had agreed to this, did he point out that the km's would go much faster going forward as that 1,5 km was all uphill. Sneaky swine.

About the downhill stretch—they warn you about it's slippery tendencies in one section. With a dash of caution and a sprinkle of awareness, navigating this is a breeze.

It's days like these that remind me of the sheer magic of the great outdoors and the endless possibilities that await just beyond the battered and bruised Johannesburg.

Here's to many more adventures, and to uncovering the hidden gems that await us in every corner of this remarkable country.

AREA: Harties/Magaliesburg

COST: R 80 - R 120 depending on the the trail.

DIFFICULTY - MODERATE

LENGTH - 6.5 kms

Even after I realised I had been duped, I was fine with the decision, as that would make our hike about 3 hours long.

But when I realised the route the 9km then followed, I felt like I had again been shortchanged.

Not that I am certain, but from where I stood, it looked like the scenery was going to be awesome. Another one I need to return to……

HIGHLIGHTS: The views…….for DAAAAAAYS!!!

It's as if each trail has its own signature touch, a distinctive quality that sets it apart from the rest. For this trail, it's the mesmerizing rock formations that steal the show. Some of them are so meticulously crafted they could pass for the work of human hands.

ELEVATION - 308 m

The elevation, in old goat language –once again, a slow and enjoyable ascent. Gentle and painless.

MARKERS - Extremely well marked…… to a point.

After the 6 km and 9 km split, the trail markers seemed to develop a sudden case of stage fright and went into hiding. Not for long though. Thankfully, I had my trusty sidekick Salt, armed with his All Trails app.

They numbered the markers—very smart - nothing like the comfort of knowing that if you do get lost, at least they'll have a pinpoint location for the search party.

Ablutions spotless,

Safe parking a plenty.

AMENITIES: - There's a braai area, picnic spots, and a swimming pool, but we didn't utilise any of them, so I cannot comment.

BUT there's also accommodation to look into. Maybe the Lodge will do us a solid and invite us back for an overnight stay and a sunset hike... now that would be an experience to remember!

BUT if they don't, well... a sunset and sunrise hike will just have to stay on my bucket list.

pool