Badkloof Trail
Discover scenic trails, waterfalls, and panoramic views at Badkloof Trail. Perfect for a peaceful escape or an adventurous hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid mud and enjoy cooler temps.
Badkloof Trail
Best Time
Avoid mud and enjoy cooler temps.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover scenic trails, waterfalls, and panoramic views at Badkloof Trail. Perfect for a peaceful escape or an adventurous hike.
"A little gem with pretty flat, brilliant views and sudden silence. "
🥾 Waterproof Boots Essential
Mud can be deep after rain. Waterproof boots are a must to navigate the trail comfortably.
🗺️ Get a Trail Map
Maps are available at the office for a small fee and help navigate overgrown sections.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vlermuis Waterfall
Trail section
A beautiful waterfall perfect for a refreshing dip or for kids to enjoy. Easy to access on the trail.
Cogmanskloof Gun Turret
Top of Cogmanskloof
Offers lively views and a surprisingly clean area. Accessible even for young children.
Peaceful River Trail
River section
Experience sudden silence and tranquility just meters from the start. Scenic, though can be overgrown.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Weather is Key
Trail Options & Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Waterproof Boots Essential
Mud can be deep after rain. Waterproof boots are a must to navigate the trail comfortably.
🗺️ Get a Trail Map
Maps are available at the office for a small fee and help navigate overgrown sections.
🧗 Rock Climbing Spots
The trail offers opportunities for rock climbing for enthusiasts.
🚶♀️ Easy for All Fitness Levels
Many sections are pretty flat and brilliant, suitable for less fit individuals.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Waterproof Boots Essential
Mud can be deep after rain. Waterproof boots are a must to navigate the trail comfortably.
🗺️ Get a Trail Map
Maps are available at the office for a small fee and help navigate overgrown sections.
🧗 Rock Climbing Spots
The trail offers opportunities for rock climbing for enthusiasts.
🚶♀️ Easy for All Fitness Levels
Many sections are pretty flat and brilliant, suitable for less fit individuals.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Badkloof Trail for its stunning natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and accessibility for various fitness levels. Highlights include Vlermuis Waterfall and the views from Cogmanskloof. However, the trail can become very muddy after rain, and some sections may be overgrown, requiring appropriate gear and preparation.
"Check the weather before you try this one. It was raining the day before and it turned a greater part of the trail into a sticky, muddy marsh. I attempted it from both ends but could only get about 1km in before the trail was washed out. It is nice and cool in the ravine but come with waterproof boots because even with the sandbags they placed down, you will get muddy."
Jacques Cronjé
"Parked and took a scramble up the rocky path to the gun turret on the top of Cogmanskloof. Our 3 year old managed up and down, which was great! Lively view from the top and quite clean, which was a pleasant surprise."
Cheryl Theunissen
"Awesome short trail to do, especially for an unfit person like me. Pretty flat and brilliant views. We started at Avalon Springs and just about 100 metres in you get a sudden silence, so peaceful. If you're into rock climbing there is also a spot or 2 for climbing. Definitely going to do this trail again when I am back at Avalon springs, I might even take the steps up to the cave."
Keegan Fourie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trail is accessible from various points, including near Avalon Springs and Cogmanskloof. Parking is available at trailheads. +1
The trails are primarily for hiking. While parking is available, the trails themselves are not for vehicles.
You can start from Avalon Springs for a peaceful river trail experience or from Cogmanskloof for access to the gun turret. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a small fee payable for accessing the trails. Maps are also available for purchase.
Specific opening hours are not widely published, but it's generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to check locally.
Advance booking is typically not required for this trail. You can pay the fee upon arrival.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The trail offers varying difficulty. Some sections are pretty flat and brilliant, suitable for novices, while others can be more challenging. +1
Yes, Vlermuis Waterfall is a highlight on the trail, loved by kids and adults alike.
While Vlermuis Waterfall is a great spot, swimming conditions can vary. It's best to assess safety on the day.
Generally, the trail is pretty clearly marked, though some sections can become overgrown after bad weather.
Expect scenic river views, lush ravines, and panoramic vistas from higher points like the Cogmanskloof gun turret. +1
🎫 👟 What to Wear & Bring
Waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended due to potential mud, especially after rain.
Pack water, snacks, a map, and wear appropriate footwear. Waterproof gear is advisable. +1
Some flatter sections might be manageable, but the trail's varied terrain and potential mud make it challenging for strollers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations: Pack plenty of water and snacks. Ensure everyone wears sturdy, preferably waterproof, footwear due to potential mud.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Tips for saving: Pack your own food and water to avoid purchasing them at inflated prices.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Terrain: Mud and Overgrowth
Despite these challenges, the trail offers rewarding experiences. The peaceful atmosphere in the ravine, with a sudden silence just meters from the start, is a significant draw.
When planning your visit, it's crucial to check the weather forecast beforehand. Opting for dry periods will significantly enhance your hiking experience and reduce the likelihood of encountering difficult muddy conditions.
Family Fun and Accessible Adventures
Another family favorite is the Vlermuis Waterfall. This section of the trail is described as easy enough for novices and pretty clearly marked, making it a safe and enjoyable destination for kids.
For those looking for a more relaxed experience, starting the trail from Avalon Springs offers a peaceful, pretty flat, and brilliant walk with immediate tranquility.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit