On a perfect hot summer morning, we discovered this magnificent hike to the George Cross. Weaving through forest and fynbos the George Cross hike is a shorter section of the George Peak hike. We approached the hike from the Garden Route Botanical Gardens, starting out in the forest section of the trail, and tracing our steps back the starting point. However, if you prefer a circular route, there are alternative paths you can take.

The hike from the Botanical Gardens is approximately 7.4km in total (the distance of 3.7km to the cross). As the trail continuously ascends, a moderate level of fitness is required. While there are a few flat sections along forest roads, be prepared for an uphill climb for the majority of the hike. We took around 4 hours to complete the trail, including time at the top for some sandwiches, and enjoying the company with our good friends.

The views over George are stunning, and we found the paths to be very well maintained. You will enjoy the forest, fynbos and some small streams along the way. As you ascend above the forest terrain, be aware that the trail offers limited shelter from the sun, so don’t forget to take a cap or hat along. You should always hike with water, even though the distance is not that far, it can get really hot up there in summer. Additionally, it’s wise to carry warmer protective gear when hiking mountains, as weather conditions can change unexpectedly.

Remember, tread lightly, respect the surroundings, take any litter out with you, and embrace the adventure that awaits your hike to the George Cross. Please consult with the relevant tourism and nature conservation authorities for more information.

Directions

• The cross can be found at these co-ordinates: -33.92527282718207, 22.455237081921734
• The height of the cross is 577m
• Time to hike: Roughly 4 hours in great weather and conditions
• Distance: 7.4km

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Orange Grove Adventures held their annual Epic Adventure Trail Run at Orange Grove Outdoor Centre on the Orange Grove Farm in Tarkastad on the 25th May 2019. The 5km and 10km trails were designed by Dave and his talented team (Tedd and Asi) and had several challenges and obstacles along the way. The weather was perfect and so was the turnout of competitors.

This epic trail run had a few elements of an adventure race with some of the challenges, especially the Eastern Cape Karoo thorn bush terrain. You can’t afford to lose your concentration and go off the trail here. Some of the obstacles included some paintball target shooting, rope swinging, balance-beam crossings and rope ladders. The trail was well prepared, clearly marked and had sufficient marshals and water points.

Everyone I spoke to had so much fun, loved being part of this event and hope to be back next year to better their time. Quite a few people walked the course with friends and family. The Orange Grove School kids also competed, showing their endurance after running the cross-country before the trail run.

I highly recommend this event and encourage you to get hold of Dave and his team for next years event (it will probably be in May again). In true Tarkastad style, the braais were going for a fun afternoon in the festive atmosphere.

You can also read about our hikes in Port Elizabeth on the Sacramento Trail and the Groendal Nature Reserve. 

The post Epic Adventure Trail Run in Tarkastad – South Africa appeared first on OutdoorEco Adventures.