TSITSIKAMMA NEWS - The main suspension bridge across the Storms River at Tsitsikamma, part of the Storms River Mouth trail at Storms River Mouth rest camp, will be closed to undergo reconstruction from 24 March until 23 June.
The bridge, one of the biggest attractions in the Tsitsikamma section of the Garden Route National Park, drew an estimated 69 000 visitors in the past year.
It is the most popular walking trail within the park because it is short, accessible and leads to the iconic suspension bridge, according to Phokela Lebea, SANParks Garden Route regional communications manager.
Not forming part of the Tsitsikamma Hiking Trail - which is operated by a private company - it is an out-and-back trail with the bridge offering spectacular views of the Tsitsikamma forest and the Storms River gorge down to the ocean.
The walk begins near the beach at the Storms River Mouth rest camp, and visitors follow the boardwalk and steps through the forest and rocky sections toward the Storms River.
The route then crosses the suspension bridges near the river mouth and offers views of the coastline and surrounding cliffs. From there, hikers turn around and return along the same path. The return distance is roughly 2 to 2.5km, depending on how far one continues beyond the bridges, said Lebela.
It features stable wooden paths and stairs suitable for visitors of all ages and was originally constructed in 1969.
Phased reconstruction
The bridge sections are being reconstructed in phases, which means partial visitor access during construction.
Bridges 2 and 3 are currently closed and are scheduled to reopen on 23 March. Once open, visitors will be able to enjoy the trail safely while the main 77m bridge is closed.
"The project involves demolishing and replacing all superstructures of the three bridges while rehabilitating the supporting substructures. Deteriorated concrete will be removed and rebuilt using specialised repair mortars and protective coatings," said JP Louw, SANParks head of communications, in a statement released on 4 March.
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