The Woodhead Tunnel on Table Mountain
The Woodhead Tunnel is a 640 metre tunnel that goes right through Table Mountain between Orange Kloof and Slangholie Ravine. It was built between 1888 and 1891 in order to divert the water from the Disa river to the Pipe Track and hence to the Molteno reservoir in Cape Town.
Although it has been out of use for some time parts of the Molteno tunnel can still be seen. The entrance is found in Orange Kloof and is not barred.
Climbing out of the Woodhead Tunnel in Orangekloof
Once inside the tunnel is about 1.5 metres high and once you have taken a few paces inside pitch dark. I have heard of people who have explored far into the tunnel but I have usually exited fairly quickly. Even with a torch you bang your head at regular intervals on the uneven roof above.
Inside the Woodhead Tunnel
The other end of the tunnel at Slangholie ravine is blocked. This is sensible as this end of the tunnel is visible from the Pipe Track so visited by far more people.
The Tunnel exits the mountain at Slangholie Ravine
The presence of this tunnel and the reservoirs on Table Mountain which were built shortly afterwards give fascinating insight into the history of Table Mountain and of Cape Town.
