Norscot Koppies Nature Reserve: Round Two

In yet another last-minute reshuffle - because apparently the universe had fully committed to chaos this weekend - I found myself contemplating Norscot Koppies, a hike that had been sitting on my solo list since a previous visit.

I'd visited before with a small and rather special group and had come away with the same thought I had this time - how is there a little wilderness gem sitting right in the middle of suburbia?

However, my solo adventure lasted approximately five minutes before a surprise guest appearance - my son, Salt, his other half Nutmeg and the freshly baked addition to the team, "Grain."

Opening Hours

According to the internet, the reserve was open on Sundays only, from 9 am.

On arrival, however, a sign informed us that it is only open on the second and last Sunday of the month.

Fortunately, we had arrived on the last Sunday.

Wildlife in the Middle of Suburbia

One of the things that continues to amaze me about Norscot Koppies is that it's an actual nature reserve - with actual wildlife.

Both times I've visited, we've spotted buck - this time we saw two.

It's genuinely strange and wonderful to be surrounded by suburban houses and then suddenly see wildlife casually going about its day as if it hasn't noticed the traffic a few hundred metres away.

The reserve has a calm, restorative energy that makes it easy to forget you're still in Johannesburg.

Easy Trails With Bonus Levels

The trails themselves are well-maintained and easy to walk.

What I particularly enjoy is that there are plenty of side trails branching off the main route.

These often lead to viewpoints, rocky sections, or completely different terrain - it’s a bit like unlocking bonus levels in a game.

Some sections are slightly inclined, others rocky, and there’s even a short scramble section, which I somehow managed to miss this time.

The best part is that all of these extras are entirely optional.

There are also a couple of bird hides along the route and little nuggets of water that appear here and there along the trail.

Hiking With Salt

You could easily cover around five kilometres here if you explore the various trails.

I'm honestly not sure how much we did because I was hiking with Salt.

For those unfamiliar with Salt, he belongs to the "let's not stop for too many photos" school of hiking.

I, meanwhile, belong to the "take 47 photos of the same tree from slightly different angles" school.

As a result, I spent a significant portion of the outing taking photos and then speed-walking or slow-jogging to catch up with them.

To be fair, Salt kept assuring me not to worry.

But I know him - I reared him - which means I am scientifically qualified to detect when he is lying.

He was lying.

Community Spirit

At the entrance I chatted with two wonderful ladies and discovered that although there is no entrance fee, donations are encouraged, because the reserve is run entirely by the community and a small group of volunteers.

They work hard to maintain the trails and keep invasive plants under control.

Nature reserves don't magically maintain themselves - despite what my houseplants seem to believe.

Will I Return?

Absolutely.

In fact, I feel like I've barely scratched the surface.

There's apparently also the Kingfisher Reserve, which is either connected to Norscot Koppies or forms part of the broader trail network.

Had I not had to chase after Salt and his rapidly disappearing entourage, I might have gathered this important information while I was there.

Instead, I left with questions.

Fortunately, unanswered questions are an excellent excuse for a return visit.

And from what I've seen so far, it feels like there's still plenty

RATINGS

Trail Information

AREA

Fourways

COST

Free

Trail Details

TRAIL DIFFICULTY

Honestly, the only difficult part is keeping up with your children after you've stopped to photograph yet another interesting-looking rock.

TRAIL LENGTH

Up to you

TRAIL MARKERS

Kind of. But honestly, you don't really need them.

TRAIL HIGHLIGHTS

If you're looking for a flat, easy walk, that's exactly what you'll get.

If you're feeling adventurous, there are enough detours to keep things interesting.

ABLUTIONS

Available at the picnic area, roughly halfway through.

PARKING

Roadside parking outside the reserve.

AMENITIES

None to speak of.- bring what you need and pretend you're rugged.

There is a large open picnic area with toilet facilities.

WILDLIFE & BIRD LIFE

Yes and yes. The buck were particularly obliging.

NOTE TO SELF

Just trust the universe. Apparently it occasionally knows what it's doing.

FAMILY FRIENDLY

Yes

PET FRIENDLY

Google indicates yes, but no.

ON A FINAL NOTE

For an accessible outdoor escape without travelling too far or tackling anything overly strenuous, Norscot Koppies is an excellent choice.

(TO)SOLO OR (NO)SOLO

(TO)SOLO