Kasteelspoort Hike: A Scenic Journey up Table Mountain
About the Hike
The Kasteelspoort trail is one of the most scenic routes to the top of Table Mountain. It offers spectacular views of Camps Bay, Lion's Head, Clifton Beaches, and the Twelve Apostles mountain range. This hike takes you to a lesser-visited part of Table Mountain National Park and features the famous Diving Board, a rock that hangs over the edge of a steep cliff.
Hike Details
- Difficulty: Moderate (3 out of 5)
- Distance: 6.5 km (jeep track) or 11 km (Pipe Track)
- Duration: 3-5 hours, depending on the chosen route
- Total Ascent: 680 m
- Elevation: Lowest point 289 m, Highest point 844 m
- Starting Points: Theresa Road, Camps Bay (jeep track) or Kloof Nek parking lot, Tafelberg Road (Pipe Track)
- Finishing Point: Top of Table Mountain, 400 m from the Diving Board
What to Expect
- Panoramic views of Cape Town, the Atlantic Ocean, and surrounding mountains
- Diverse fynbos vegetation throughout the hike
- The famous Diving Board - a popular photo spot
- A combination of footpaths and rocky trails
- Occasional yellow footprint markers along the trail
- Option to explore Woodhead and Hely-Hutchinson Reservoirs
Route Description
The hike can be divided into four parts:
- From the parking lot to the beginning of the ascent (3.5 km on Pipe Track or 1.3 km on jeep track)
- The steep ascent to Table Mountain's top
- The descent (can be tricky due to rocky terrain)
- The walk back to the parking lot
Important Information
- Best hiking time: November to March (summer months)
- Start early in peak summer (December to February) to avoid heat
- Bring at least 2 liters of water per person
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing
- Use sun protection - parts of the trail are exposed
- Check weather conditions before hiking
- Not recommended on very windy days
Getting There
The easiest way to reach the trailhead is by car. Parking options include:
- Camps Bay side: Free parking along Theresa Avenue
- Tafelberg Road side: Free parking at Kloof Nek parking lot
Alternatively, use the hop-on-hop-off tourist bus to the lower cable car station and walk 1.5 km to Kloof Nek parking lot.
Safety Tips
- Don't hike alone - join a tour if you're a solo traveler
- Hike on weekends or public holidays when the trail is busier
- Ensure your mobile phone has a signal
- Stay on marked trails and respect signs
- Inform someone of your hiking plans