Hazeldean Trails: Third Time’s the Charm

This was my third time at Hazeldean Valley Trails.

Yes, third - which is two more times than I tend to hike any trail.

First Impressions (Again)

Round one, I dragged along by my hiking partner, a human espresso shot with legs.

Scenic?

Hard to say - I was busy keeping up and questioning my cardio.

Round two was a solo hike after the weather scared off any potential buds.

I landed up accidentally doing the exact same route.

A thrilling journey of repetition.

So obviously, I went back.

This time with Boris (dog, not former global leader) and Basil (his human), determined to finally experience something new.

Trail Options

Hazeldean is a massive cycling hotspot, but hikers are very much invited to the party.

At the entrance, the same friendly assistant endured my questions about how not to repeat myself for a third time.

We were pointed toward a different route and chose “bushveld” over “farmland” because it sounded less beige and came with a vague promise of trees.

The Trail

There was more shade, more trees and less “leisurely stroll through farmland.”

It’s not dramatic.

No cliffs. No sweeping mountain vistas.

But it’s peaceful in that quiet, grounding way that makes you feel like a functioning human again.

The terrain is virtually flat, so if you’re looking for elevation, this is not your moment.

If you want a relaxed walk in beautiful nature, you’re in the right place.

The Tick Situation

Let’s address the real villain lately - ticks.

In a moment of optimism, I used my brand-new tick spray.

It did not repel ticks.

If anything, it sent out invitations.

Results:

Me: two ticks + bonus cling-ons

Basil: a few + decorative extras

Boris: full buffet experience

To be fair, this isn’t the trail’s fault. It’s just nature showing who's in charge.

Still - check yourself.

Thoroughly.

Immediately.

Possibly with a magnifying glass.

Easy Escape from the City

Hazeldean isn’t “deep wilderness.” It’s more like nature-lite - perfect if you’re short on time but still want trees, fresh air, and the illusion of adventure.

It’s well-kept, accessible, and ideal for casual hikers, dog walks and the feeling of adventure without the inconvenience of actual struggle.

RATINGS

Trail Information

AREA

Hazeldean, Pretoria

COST

R 55

Trail Details

TRAIL DIFFICULTY

Easy (borderline enthusiastic walk)

TRAIL LENGTH

2 km to 49 km

We clocked about 10 km.

This was not intentional - it never is.

TRAIL MARKERS

Trail markings are bold, visible, but still manage to leave room for interpretation.

You won’t get lost, but wear proper shoes, it's likely that you will walk more than planned.

At a couple points, we asked workers for directions, which was a humbling reminder that confidence is not the same as accuracy.

TRAIL HIGHLIGHTS

Peaceful surroundings and a beautiful farm atmosphere.

WEATHER CONDITIONS TO CONSIDER

Mostly exposed.

ABLUTIONS

Fabulous

SAFE FREE PARKING

AMENITIES

Mountain biking, trail running, hiking

Bike rentals are available

There’s a coffee shop, a brewery and a wood-fired pizza.

A full restaurant is apparently on the way.

WILDLIFE & BIRD LIFE

Birds, yes. But mostly cows.

Big, beautiful, slightly judgmental cows that appear randomly.

Boris and I were fine.

Basil… not so much.

Let’s just say her relationship with cows is complicated, and Boris and I had to step up as emotional support humans (and dog).

NOTE TO SELF

Tick spray is a suggestion, not a guarantee

FAMILY FRIENDLY

Yes - with play equipment at the coffee shop.

PET FRIENDLY

Yes - on leash.

However, because we arrived early on an off-peak day, we got permission to let Boris off in quieter sections.

The condition: solid recall.

Boris has excellent recall.

But for the record, it is ordinarily off lead, and they are strict about that.

ON A FINAL NOTE

Hazeldean won’t blow your mind, but you will get an easy, pleasant walk, well-kept trails, and you'll be surrounded by the peaceful and exquisite outdoors.

There’s space to breathe, trees to justify your presence, and a general sense that everything is quietly working as it should.

And honestly, sometimes that’s all we need.

Would I go back a fourth time?

…Yes, eventually.

There are still trails I haven’t accidentally repeated yet.

(TO)SOLO OR (NO)SOLO

Solo? Done it.

Survived it.