Bergheim Hiking Trail

About Bergheim Hiking Trail

Start: Bergheim resort camp, Magaliesberg
Finish: Bergheim resort
Duration: 8 km
Fitness: relatively fit, particularly because of the climb
Our tip: the climb to the top of the gorge can get tiring in the heat of the day; get an early start.

Bergheim trail has few directional markers. Either you do the hike with someone who knows the route, or you follow a general direction (the resort may be able to give you GPS co-ordinates).

Fernkloof is one of several deep gorges in the Magaliesberg. Others include Tonquani, Grootkloof, Kosmos, Eureka, Dome, Trident and Castle Gorge. It is a favourite amongst climbers for its sport climbing area, which has fully bolted climbs with 20 routes of varying difficulty, although there are no beginner climbs.

The hike is a there-and-back trail, heading off into the Magaliesberg mountains from the campsite, where there is a swimming pool, ideal for cooling off afterwards. There is also a little shop selling cold drinks and ice-cream.

Ideally, take along a map of the area if you have not a trail guide. Head towards the deep gorge on the resort, keeping alongside the cool stream, where there is nominal boulder hopping, for some time until you reach the sides of the gorge where a climb becomes imminent.

Bear in mind that whilst these directions sound simple there is a fair bit of orienteering involved if you do not want to get lost. It is possibly a good idea to do a scout hike if you intend taking a group up Fernkloof Gorge

To get to the top of the mountain you now head up either side of the gorge, depending on the weather, and the climbers.

Once at the top the climb's benefits become obvious as views of Fernkloof Gorge and the Magaliesberg are wonderful and there is a stream at the top perfect for a swim and a lunch time stop.

Don't forget: snacks, good hiking boots, a hat, sunscreen, swimming gear, a GPS, binoculars and a bird guide (as the birds are prolific).