We did not expect to be able to climb Grootkop via the ‘B’ route when the 14 of us set out in the rain – however, such are the changing conditions experienced on Table Mountain. Our first challenge was dashing under the cascading water coming off the cliffs above the path as one approaches Slangolie Ravine. The rain eventually gave way to bouts of sunshine and a cool breeze that helped dry the rock sufficiently to enable us to enjoy the not often climbed ‘original’ B route – now very overgrown and in places difficult to find were it not for the cairns.
We had tea perched on one of the upper ledges on the final approach to the beacon, soaking in the views around us. Then we were soon on top but the cold conditions caused us not to linger and head for lower and warmer regions! Lunch was enjoyed in the upper reaches of Woody Ravine before returning to the cars at 3:15pm.
photos by Don Jepson
