Snow Hike: Where to go for a snow day adventure

Whenever SnowReport.co.za predicts snow for the Western Cape we get excited. There are a few spots we’ve explored over the years in search of a hike, or in one case a ride, in the snow. This is a quick list to help you choose where to go in search of fresh powder.

Matroosberg

At 2 249 metres above sea level Matroosberg is the second highest and the highest readily accessible peak in the province. That is if you have a 4×4. With the right vehicle and know-how you can drive to the summit. You can also hike or cycle up, though be warned the pass is very steep and requires a significant amount of hike-a-biking; unless you’re superhumanly strong on the bike. Just note that if you’re planning an ascent to the summit by vehicle that you’ll need to check in to the Matroosberg Reserve by 11h00. On weekends, with heavy snow falls, the pass can get very busy too, so budget a full day for the mission. Even if you’re driving up, remember to dress warmly and wear a water- and wind-proof jacket. A weather proof outer shell will keep you dry and the wind chill off your skin, ensuring you stay warm enough to actually enjoy the mountain-top splendor.

Golden hour in the snow.

Entry Fee: R65 (+ R250 per 4×4)

Website: www.matroosberg.com

Maps: Google Maps

Click on the links below to view the First Ascent range of waterproof jackets.

Men’s Waterproof Jackets | Women’s Waterproof Jackets | Waterproof Pants

Photos from above the snow line.

Jonkershoek

With Victoria Peak, at 1 589m, the snow is guaranteed to bank up more in Jonkershoek and hang around for you to get up there on Tuesday. Head in the reserve gate and drive the circle route to the white bridge; then follow the Panorama trail signs. You should reach the snow line above the Berg River Neck. There is some rain predicted for Tuesday still so don’t forget a waterproof jacket, but more importantly layer up with base layers and a down jacket to resist the icy chill.

Snow day fun.

Entry Fee: R50

Website: www.capenature.co.za/reserves/jonkershoek-nature-reserve/

Maps: Available at the gate

Parking: Jonkershoek Gate on Google Maps

Click on the links below to view the First Ascent range of base layers.

Men’s Base Layers | Women’s Base Layers

Shorts are probably not a great idea for hiking in the snow…

Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve

The easiest way to get to the snow line is to drive up to the summit of the Franschhoek Pass and park at the entrance to Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve. From the reserve gate it’s an easy 2km hike to the snow line, climbing about 150m in elevation, which is significantly easier than the hike to the snow line in Jonkershoek. The wind whistles through the Wemmershoek Valley and the Mont Rochelle ridgelines so a windbreaker over a down jacket is a good way to lock in your body heat.

The icy rivulets running down the mountains feed into the Western Cape’s dams.

Entry Fee: R50

Website: www.montrochellehiking.co.za

Maps: Available at the gate

Parking: Mont Rochelle Gate on Google Maps

Click on the links below to view the First Ascent range of down jackets.

Men’s Down Jackets | Women’s Down Jackets

A pair of warm gloves won’t go amiss should you decide to build snowmen.

The Perfect Winter Warmer

Don’t forget to pack your hiking stove and moka pot when going for your snow hike. Find a spot with a rock or overhang blocking the wind, preferably with a good view, and make yourself a good strong cup of coffee. Hot, strong, black and without sugar is the Spartan best – but if you need milk and sugar taking a pre-prepared flask with coffee made to your liking is still pretty great.