Walking group discovers the delights of Mountain Pastures
An unexpected surprise awaited 11 eager hikers as we arrive at Mountain Pastures Game Lodge. Eugene and Riana Edwards greet us with steaming cups of tea and coffee as members of the group introduce themselves to newcomers. We all have one thing in common – a love for walking in nature.
Our walking group are here to hike the Buffalokloof trail and an early start means that we set off entertained by bird calls. As we wind our way up the gently sloping kloof, we walk in silence, enjoying the tranquillity of the kloof. We are surrounded by magnificent rock formations and beautiful fynbos species.
On reaching the top, the view to the south takes our breath away, a perfect place for a brief refreshment stop. I smile as new aquaintances chat and share refreshments. We explore the biodiversity of the area and then head off in a westerly direction, with spectacular views of the de Hoop valley to the north.
It is always wonderful having children on a trail and Angie is a delight. She has keen eyesight and enthusiastically discovers a variety of interesting animals under the rocks. I suddenly hear Angie call ‘come quickly’ and rush over. Angie has spotted the scorpion Uroplectes marlothi carrying babies on her back. What a find! Angie is fascinated as we chat about the reproduction and importance of scorpions in ecosystems. Just further on Angie discovers a second species of scorpion, a young Opistacanthus diremptus.
The trail continues in a westerly direction and as we gaze at the Zebra and other game in the distance, the hikers chat about how special it is to be able to walk with game in the area, very different to being in a 4×4! The trail then turns back eastwards towards the lodge, and we realise that unfortunately our hike is almost over.
Walking in a group is such a wonderful experience. Today I have witnessed friendships built and others strengthened within just a few hours. The Buffalokloof trail, being a comfortable short trail, is just perfect for groups and families of all ages and fitness levels.
The Buffalokloof trail is a circular trail within the game area. The paths are well set out and sign-posted. The trails on Mountain Pastures have been certified through the ‘World trails network’ organisation, and have been awarded ‘Green flag status’ which ensures trail users of a safe, quality experience.
Written by Dr Joy Paton (PhD Zoology)
