Hilton College – Beacons, 18 July
Leader: Alistair Nixon, Grade 3, 10km, 4 hours
22 hikers on a perfect winter’s day about to head off to enjoy majestic views from the Hilton College estate.
First views – Otto’s Bluff and Albert Falls
Giraffe way off in the distance in Karkloof Nature Reserve.
Cattle eeking out some grazing.
The forestry road runs parallel to the fence (left) from which there are stunning views.
Bird life is abundant in the area including black collard barbets, southern boubou, African hoopoe and many bird calls we were unable to identify.
Tea break at Bennie's view point. A lovely memorial to a member of the estate staff who worked for forty years for the school and the environment which we enjoy today.
Porcupine footprints?
A dead shrew surprisingly without any apparent injuries.
Large black ants in abundance making nests in numerous rock cavities.
End of the line? The end of the contour road.
The final hurdle before reaching Beacons - our half way point.
The final hurdle before reaching Beacons our half way point.
Beacons. Albert Falls dam. Glorious!
Looking towards Everdon on the left, Gilboa on the horizon, confluence of Umgeni and Karkloof rivers and Mbona on the right.
One of the day's hilites. Three rhino.
Above: The return trip through wattle plantations.
Right: Margret inspects a warthog's excavation.
