Pipe Track Walk - Camps Bay, Cape Town
Pipe Track Walk - Camps Bay, Cape Town
The Pipe Track Walk is a popular and scenic hiking trail located on the slopes of Table Mountain above Camps Bay in Cape Town. Known for its relatively easy route and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, this trail is ideal for walkers, trail runners, and families looking for a leisurely outdoor experience while still enjoying the beauty of Cape Town's iconic landscapes.
The Pipe Track was originally constructed in 1887 to service a water pipeline that transported water from the Disa River on Table Mountain to Cape Town. The pipeline still exists today and runs alongside parts of the trail. The path was built to allow maintenance workers access to the pipeline, and it has since become one of the city's beloved hiking routes. It is named after the large pipes visible along certain sections of the walk.
Trail Details:
- Distance: The full length of the Pipe Track walk is approximately 6 km (about 12 km return), but hikers can choose to turn back at any point depending on their preference and fitness level.
- Duration: The walk typically takes between 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on how far along the route one decides to hike.
- Difficulty: The walk is classified as moderate, with some uneven terrain but no steep climbing. It’s suitable for most fitness levels and is family-friendly.
- Starting Point: The trail begins at Kloof Nek, just above the junction where Tafelberg Road meets Camps Bay Drive. There is parking available at the start of the hike near the Twelve Apostles.
- Scenic Views: Hikers are treated to magnificent views of the Atlantic coastline, Camps Bay, and the Twelve Apostles mountain range. The trail runs along the side of the mountain and offers panoramic vistas of both the ocean and the city below.
The trail runs through some beautiful sections of the Cape Fynbos biome, home to many indigenous plant species. Depending on the time of year, hikers may also see blooming wildflowers and spot local wildlife, including birds, dassies (rock hyrax), and sometimes even mountain tortoises.
Some of the highlights:
- Ocean Views: The trail offers consistent views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Camps Bay coastline, making it one of the more scenic walks in Cape Town.
- Accessibility: Unlike many Table Mountain hikes, the Pipe Track is relatively flat and doesn't require strenuous climbing, making it accessible to a wider range of hikers, including those looking for a leisurely stroll.
- Historical Interest: Walking along the old pipeline adds an element of historical interest, reminding hikers of the route’s practical origins.
Important tips to consider before setting out:
- Weather: It’s advisable to check the weather before heading out, as Cape Town’s weather can change quickly, especially on the mountain.
- Safety: Like all hikes in Cape Town, it's recommended to walk in groups and ensure you bring enough water and sun protection.
Contact details for the Pipe Track Walk:
Table Mountain National Park: +27 (0)21 422 1601 (for general park inquiries)
Emergency Number (Mountain): +27 (0)86 110 6417
Accommodation Near Pipe Track Walk - Camps Bay, Cape Town
Aview
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Camps Bay, Cape Town
1.1km from Pipe Track Walk - Camps Bay, Cape TownThis striking luxury villa offers unobstructed views of both the mountain & Camps Bay. It is close to the beach, restaurants, clubs, bars, Cape Town, V&A Waterfront, Golf courses & wine routes. The pool, Jacuzzi & gamesroom are big hits with guests! …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
3 On Camps Bay Boutique Hotel
Hotel / Boutique Hotel Accommodation in Camps Bay, Cape Town
1.4km from Pipe Track Walk - Camps Bay, Cape Town3 on Camps Bay is a luxury 16 bedroom Guesthouse in the up-market and trendy Camps Bay, Cape Town. Located in a cul-de-sac overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, 3 On Camps Bay offers a quiet retreat where you can vacation in the utmost luxury and pamper. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
7A Clifton Steps
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Clifton, Cape Town
1.9km from Pipe Track Walk - Camps Bay, Cape TownA beautifully appointed garden self-catering 2 bedroom apartment on Clifton Steps. Ideally situated - just a short taxi ride from Camps Bay to one side and to the other side, all that the Mother City has to offer. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Liberty Lodge
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Cape Town
2.4km from Pipe Track Walk - Camps Bay, Cape TownLiberty Lodge provides guests with bed and breakfast accommodation in Tamboerskloof, Gardens, Cape Town City Bowl. Over the years, this classic Cape Town bed & breakfast has earned an enviable reputation for relaxed and genuine hospitality. Originally a V …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
5 Camp Street
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Cape Town
2.6km from Pipe Track Walk - Camps Bay, Cape Town5 Camp Street provides self catering accommodation in Gardens, Cape Town City Bowl. Ideally situated in the central, trendy and historic suburb of Gardens, on the lower slopes of Table Mountain. Within easy walking distance of Kloof Street... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Grande Kloof Boutique Hotel
Hotel / Boutique Hotel Accommodation in Cape Town
2.8km from Pipe Track Walk - Camps Bay, Cape TownThe Grande Kloof is a privately owned and operated accommodation establishment offering both Bed & Breakfast and Self Catering options in a great holiday location within the upmarket residential area of Fresnaye, on the Atlantic Seaboard in Cape Town... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Barry Hall Apartments
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Fresnaye
3.2km from Pipe Track Walk - Camps Bay, Cape TownBarry Hall is located in the leafy suburb of Fresnaye on the Atlantic Seaboard. The 4 large apartments and garden cottage are offer free Wi-Fi as well as friendly daily service, weekdays leaves you free to enjoy Cape Town and all its beauty. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Green Point Self Catering Studio
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Green Point, Cape Town
4.3km from Pipe Track Walk - Camps Bay, Cape TownGreen Point Self Catering Studio provides visitors with self catering accommodation in Green Point, Cape Town City Bowl. We offer 2 self catering studios. Green Point Self Catering Studio 1 (sleeps max two) is a tastefully renovated self-catering studio.. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Beach Villa
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Mouille Point
5.4km from Pipe Track Walk - Camps Bay, Cape TownBeach Villa apartment provides self catering accommodation in Mouille Point, Cape Town City Bowl. Beach Villa, is a spacious two bedroomed self catering apartment with stunning sea and mountain views and within walking distance to the Mouille Point beach …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Waterland Lodge
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Hout Bay
6.1km from Pipe Track Walk - Camps Bay, Cape TownWaterland Lodge provides self catering accommodation in Hout Bay, Cape Town. We have 7 self catering cottages to choose from to to ensure a great stay in Hout Bay. Lush river banks, mountain forests and a central location set amongst Hout Bay's... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
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