Taroko Trail Park - Again......

So, I ventured to Modderfontein Nature Reserve with Pepper.

Ironically, he's the one who kick-started our newfound hiking obsession. I say "ironically" because if you knew Pepper the way we know Pepper, you'd appreciate the irony in that statement.

He’s not exactly the poster child for an outdoor lifestyle. He’s lean and fit, but not about that life….yet there he was…

Modderfontein is where we began this new hiking lifestyle, and we've seen nothing short of hiking heaven since then. So to use our subsequent hikes as a yardstick is not totally fair!

Every time Pepper was to be my hiking partner, he'd chirp, 'Let's do Modderfontein!' And, like clockwork, we’d end up doing Modderfontein......again. At this point, I've practically memorized every rock and tree. So, yes, maybe just a tad overkill.

It's conveniently close, saving us from long drives out of Johannesburg. But here's the thing—I’ve never been a fan. We always walked the 5.3 km trail, which felt more like an endurance test than a hike....especially with Pepper....

But now, feeling like a seasoned pro, I told Pepper that I want to conquer the 11.4 km trail.

Maybe, just maybe, I'd finally understand what all the fuss was about. Everyone and their dog know the Reserve. It's practically a rite of passage for local hikers.

Although I now realize that the term “hikers” is thrown around way too lightly. I've come to see there are leisurely walks and then there are real hikes. Not sure if there’s an official difference, but in my old hag assessment, there definitely is!

There are perks of Modderfontein. The perks? It's close to home, well-kept, and has great amenities. For a quick, brisk trail, it's a solid choice. However, I've always found it rather... boring.

This time round we saw a picnic section, which we had never seen before. So that was new,,,,,

The 11 km trail did offer a bit more scenic value, making it somewhat more worthwhile than the shorter hike. Especially when hiking with Pepper, who sees every trail as a race to the finish line (with no prize in sight).

To be fair, if that is what you are aiming for, Modderfontein is perfect for you. It’s clean, marked well and ready for the race!

I, on the other hand, am all for embracing the unexpected, and finding joy in the journey

For Pepper, it's not about the journey; it’s purely about the destination.

AREA: Modderfontein

COST: R 40 pp.

DIFFICULTY - EASY

I mean an average 50-plus-year-old should handle the hike. Walking 11 km shouldn't pose a problem for an average old-timer.

LENGTH - 11.4 km

The 11.4 km trail did prove to be a bit more scenic than the shorter 5.3 km route, and Pepper’s competitive spirit certainly kept things lively. But when it comes to hiking per se, Modderfontein is more of a trail.

TIME - 2 hrs

ELEVATION - Flat

MARKERS - Good

AMENITIES - One could easily spend a pleasant day at Modderfontein Nature Reserve, combining hiking with a visit to the Farmer’s Market and a relaxing lunch at their lovely eatery. There are also picnic spots for a more laid-back experience.

Yes, it's a well-maintained and convenient location, especially for those of us not keen on a long drive out of Johannesburg.

So, here's the rundown: if you're after a hike that will leave you feeling challenged and seeking a truly breathtaking hiking experience, it's worth venturing a bit further afield.

Ablutions spotless

Safe parking a plenty.