Blinkwater Ravine separates Table Mountain’s tabletop summit from the 12 Apostles. It’s one of the few hikes on the western side of the mountain that offers indigenous jungle and sea views on the ascent. The route leads up a prominent ravine and involves rugged terrain (lose rock, bush) in places as well as B-grade scrambling and a bit of exposure to heights. Hiking Table Mountain via this route is best done in summer, when the ravine is dry enough for uncomplicated passage. Winter rains renders the ravine impassable. It’s a great summer route, as it gets morning shade.
Of all the Table Mountain hiking routes, why would one choose Blinkwater Ravine? If you want an adventure route (scrambling) without much exposure to heights and you want to be off-the-beaten track and desire an experience of nature as well as peace, quiet and solitude, and you don’t want to spend the entire day hiking, then this is the route for you.
Though only a B-grade and involving minimal exposure to heights, Blinkwater Ravine should not be underestimated. Some of the scrambling is awkward, especially when wet, and one section consists of lose boulders that requires care.
The sense of solitude, the peace and quiet and the closeness with nature are all attributes of the route. It also leads through all the floral zones on the mountain, one of very few Table Mountain hikes to do so.
Hiking Table Mountain via Blinkwater Ravine is an ideal way to get a glimpse of the wilder side of the mountain without committing to a strenuous and hardcore full-day trek. The surroundings are pristine and the hiking varied and engaging.
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