When we offered the Traverse of the Gods route to Mountain Club members in May 2024 (apparently for the first time in years), the response was overwhelming, and it was clear that we should do so again soon. A date was identified post-completion of the annual cable car maintenance, and with the advent of spring, we were hoping for some good weather after a very wet winter that brought record levels of rainfall.
With spots filling up quickly and hopeful waiting-list members crossing their fingers, co-leads Johan and Ruth kept a close eye on the weather forecast. It seemed that there might be windy conditions, but it was agreed that the expected wind direction should not impact us too much on this route. On the morning, however, we woke up to quite unexpected rain on Table Mountain, and a few members dropped out after the early-morning warning that the route might change because of this. Fifteen members persisted though, and we met on Table Mountain Road to assess the situation and consider our options.
It’s never an easy decision to cancel a hike or to change the route. It’s also not an exact science, one often gets conflicting info from the plethora of weather apps available, and sometimes you just need to work with what you know at that moment, what makes sense, and what is the safest option. The leads decided that we would rather visit Blinkwaterfall, a beautiful gem that seemingly very few people have seen. The decision was supported and respected, but as we set off along Pipe Track, the weather conditions appeared to be improving. We all stared longingly at the rock cliffs of Kloof Buttress, thinking of what could have been. For someone who has signed up for an adventurous route such as Traverse of the Gods, spending your morning along Pipe Track is probably as exciting as ordering a round of tequilas and getting a glass of milk. Unless you’re lactose intolerant.
Fortunately, it wasn’t a complete waste. The company was good, conditions were pleasant, and Blinkwater Ravine has its own special appeal. Finding the correct spot to leave the trail and climb down to the waterfall can be tricky, but we managed it well, and this section provided a bit of scrambling for the enthusiastic mountaineers. Our efforts were rewarded with the sight of the waterfall, a perfect spot for a quick brunch. While there, plans were hatched, and fellow MCSA leader Alex agreed to lead a few members up Blinkwater Ravine, while the rest returned via Pipe Track. We reached our cars around 11, just as more rain started pouring down. Alex reported afterwards that they had safely returned via Platteklip Gorge after getting caught in a hailstorm along the way. Proof that Cape Town weather is never predictable, but one can still have fun and get your mountain fix! Thanks to everyone who signed up and persisted, it was a lovely morning and there will be more opportunities in the future.
Co-lead: Johan “Fomo Sapien” Fourie
Co-lead: Ruth Knoblich
