GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - The Wilderness National Park just outside George offers pristine hiking trails that will leave the nature lover in awe.
Some of the trails are easy enough for children to enjoy as well while others are a bit harder, but the view will make it worth your while.
These trails are also popular among runners.
As this is a nature reserve, dogs are not allowed.
The park protects three major zones of indigenous forest, four types of fynbos, plus various lakes and winding waterways. There are also a number of interesting historical sites including the Woodville Big Tree (believed to be over 800 years old) and Goudveld (an old mining town in the forest).
The Half Collared Kingfisher Trail is a nice shady walk through the forest with plenty of bird life like the Knysna loerie, giant kingfisher and fish eagle.
Trail distance: 7,2km
Trail time: 3 to 4 hours
The Giant Kingfisher Trail is a little strenuous at the start, but it does get easier. Children might struggle a little with this one. It is, however, the only trail that leads to a waterfall, which they will enjoy tremendously. You are allowed to swim and picnic at the waterfall, so be sure pack your cozzie and your favourite picnic.
Trail distance: 3,5km
Trail time: 3 to 4 hours
The Pied Kingfisher Trail is mainly used for bird watching. It is a long, open, flat circular route with no shade that mainly consists of fynbos. A section of the route combines with the beach.
Trail distance: 10km
Trail time: 3 to 4 hours
The Brown Hooded Kingfisher Trail winds through the forest and leads to the river. This trail is also popular for bird watching. It’s much shorter than the Pied Kingfisher and offers more shade.
Trail distance: 4,1km
Trail time: 2 to 3 hours
The Cape Dune Molerat Trail is very sandy. Various types of fynbos can be seen, but unfortunately, this circular route has very little shade.
Trail distance: 6km
Trail time: 2 to 3 hours
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