BLINKWATER RAVINE
INFORMATION
Length: 6.6km
Elevation gain: 1000m
Required time: 4-5 Hours
Route type: Loop
Difficulty level: Advanced
Price: $90
Blinkwater Ravine is nestled rather inconspicuously on the Camps Bay side of Table Mountain. Prior to the 21st century this used to be one of the more popular routes up Table Mountain.
Then one winter, after heavy rains, a rockfall rendered the top section too dangerous to hike and for many years after people hardly used the ravine. However, in recent years Blinkwater Ravine is seeing foot traffic once again as it’s one of the most direct ways up to the top of Table Mountain.
THE ROUTE
The hike starts from the Pipe Track on Tafelberg Road. After walking along the Pipe Track for about 2km, we turn left onto an unmaintained path which is the start of the route.
From the start the path is steep an unrelenting, so a solid level of fitness is required to do this route. Once we pass the cave which about a third of the way up, the rest of the hike is almost entirely in the rocky ravine, which is wet for most of the year.
Caution needs to be taken when scrambling up some sections where there may be damp lichenous rock. As we get higher, the spectacular views of Blinkwater Needle and Camps Bay in the background begin to reveal themselves.
The crux of the route comes near the top where there is a short B grade scramble section which runs for about 5-7 metres.
The route summits in Echo Valley where we then make our way across to the Upper Cable Station on Table Mountain to take the cable car down.
FAUNA AND FLORA
The Twelve Apostles side of Table Mountain boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna, adding an extra layer of fascination to Blinkwater Ravine.
Hikers may encounter an array of fynbos species, including the unique and colourful proteas that thrive in this rugged environment. Due to the year-round moisture in the ravine, hikers may also be lucky enough to spot the elusive Disa Uniflora which flowers in January and February on certain parts of the mountain.
Also keep an eye out for the dassies, small rock hyraxes endemic to the region, often spotted sunbathing on the rocks. These charming creatures add a touch of wildlife intrigue to the scrambling experience.