Hiking Trails: For You and Your Doggo

Going on a hike with your furry friend can be such a fun and refreshing experience! Not only do you get to enjoy the sunshine and stunning views, but you also get to bond with your doggo while they get some much-needed exercise and explore new smells and surroundings. Luckily, whether you’re in Cape Town, Johannesburg, or Durban, there are plenty of amazing hiking trails to choose from. Check out some of our top picks below:

Cape Town:

• Lion’s Head – Cape Town City Centre
• Lion’s Head is one of the most popular hiking trails in Cape Town for a reason. It’s easy to get to, offers incredible views of the city and ocean, and is suitable for hikers of all levels. The hike usually takes around 2-3 hours, but the breathtaking views make it totally worth it.

• Newlands Forest via the Contour Path – Newlands (R60 by the gate to bring your doggo)
• Newlands Forest is a local favorite that’s open year-round. The 6 km loop trail offers lush forest scenery and a fresh, rejuvenating atmosphere. It’s a great spot for families and doggos alike, and you’ll often see locals hiking with their furry friends.

• The Pipe Track – Cape Town City Centre (SANParks permit required for your doggo)
• Located in the Table Mountain National Park, the Pipe Track follows the contours of the mountain and offers some of the most stunning views you’ll ever see. It’s a family-friendly hike that takes around 3 hours to complete, and you’re bound to encounter other hikers and their pups along the way.

Gauteng:

• Sable Ranch Trail – Magaliesburg
• The Sable Ranch Trail is a 10km loop trail that starts with a steep incline but levels out to offer scenic views for the rest of the hike. At the end of the trail, you’ll find a restaurant with a full bar, obstacle course, paintball, and even a reptile show! It’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy a well-earned drink after your adventure.

• Hedianga Farm Green Loop – Mooiplaas, Gauteng
• Located on a pristine farm in Gauteng, the Hedianga Farm Green Loop offers a slightly rugged terrain that adds a sense of adventure to your hike. With breathtaking views and affordable, well-marked trails, it’s a popular spot for families and their furry friends.

• Johannesburg Botanical Gardens – Emmarentia, Johannesburg
• The Johannesburg Botanical Gardens offer a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city. The indigenous and exotic plants are surrounded by lawn and overlook the Emmarentia Dam. It’s a light walking trail that takes around an hour to complete and spans 3.5km.

Durban:

• Holla Brown Route – Umhlali, Kwadukuza
• The Holla Brown Route is an 8km loop trail near KwaDukuza NU that’s considered moderately challenging for beginner hikers. It’s a great trail to take your doggos on, and you’ll have the opportunity to see some beautiful birds and enjoy stunning views?

• Karkloof Trail – Karkloof, Howick
• The Karkloof Trail is a 20km loop trail near Howick, KZN that offers a hike around a beautiful forestry oasis. While it may be challenging for beginner hikers, it’s well-marked and can be taken slowly. It’s a perfect day trip to take on the weekend with your pup, just don’t forget to bring plenty of water!

• Dragons Peak, Yellow Trail – Drakensberg
• The Dragon’s Peak Yellow Trail is a beautiful hiking trail in the Drakensberg that takes just over 50 minutes to complete. Although it’s only 2.6km there and back, you’ll encounter natural features of interest and even a 700-year-old Yellowstone forest to explore. During the summer, be sure to pack your swimsuits and take a dip in the natural rock pools.

A hike is a wonderful thing to do with your family and doggo to get everyone out of the house. Spend some time in nature and refresh your mind. We hope you enjoy your next adventure on these trails with your furry friend!