Climb the 3 peaks of Table
Mountain
The 3 peaks of Table Mountain are Devils Peak, Table Mountain and Lions Head. Climbing all 3 in one day is a challenge but a little bit more practical than the 3 peaks of the UK as there is no driving required between peaks.
There are a couple of organised races up the 3 peaks. The most gruelling of these requires runners/hikers/plodders to return to Green Market square in the centre of Cape Town between each Peak. This adds a distance of about 30km onto the challenge.
To do the 3 peaks merely returning to Tafelberg Rd each time is a distance of +/- 27km (depending on your route) The peaks can be bagged in any order but generally people aim for Devils Peak, Table Mountain and finally Lions Head.
The 3 peaks of Table Mountain.
The route up Devils Peak begins from the far end of Tafelberg Rd. The path is straightforward and initially not too steep as it takes a diagonal route up onto the saddle. However once at the saddle (at a height of 680m), the real climb begins. The final haul to the top of Devils Peak (1001m) is up a path that seems to go almost directly up. The path is clear but is not stepped so your calves take severe strain especially if you are racing. Once at the top take a moment to enjoy the views before descending the same route.
From devils peak, looking across to Table Mountain and Lions Head
Once back on the contour path, turn left and head to Platteklip Gorge. This is another steep route which I can only describe it as an unrelenting staircase. Obviously the steps were built by a man with long legs! Here the thighs take more strain. At the top of Platteklip Gorge you are at a height of 1000m. I’m afraid this is not the top of the mountain. You turn left and head a further 2km to Maclears Beacon which at 1085m is the highest point. Touch the beacon and then return to the head of Platteklip.
The flat section to Maclears Beacom
This flattish section is quite a relief on the muscles and allows them to loosten up a bit before the downward journey. This is the toughest part of the challenge. The knees and legs take a huge pounding going down this route and a fall could really hurt. The best advise is to take it slowly and steadily. Sticks are also a huge bonus here.
Once back on Platteklip road you now need to jog to Lions Head. A distance of +/-4km. This is along the road and on a gentle decline initially which gets steeper as you approach Kloof Nek.
Tafelberg Rd along the base of Table Mountain
Once over Kloof Nek there is short climb to the beginning of Lions Head. At only 669m this is the smallest peak, but that doesn’t mean it is easy! Initially you follow a well marked jeep track around the base. This becomes a smaller path after the first circuit and climbs steadily to a height of 550m. Here you can climb quickly up a series of chains to 600m. The last climb is along the spine of the mountain and one ladder until eventually you reach the top. Head back down the same way.
Table Mountain and Devils Peak from the top of Lions Head
Once back on Tafelberg rd. Congratulations. You have completed one of the most gruelling hikes on Table Mountain. Whether you ran it or plodded. Finishing is an accomplishment !!
