The easiest routes to the top of Table Mountain

Want to hike to the top of Table Mountain without taking on one of the mountain’s most technical routes?

There are several ways to reach the summit, but they vary considerably in difficulty.

South African National Parks (SANParks) describes Platteklip Gorge as the most direct route to the top, although it warns that the steep climb can be tough. Skeleton Gorge offers an alternative from Kirstenbosch, while some visitors can combine hiking with the cableway for a less demanding experience.

Here are some of the options to consider.

1. Platteklip Gorge

Difficulty: Moderate to tough
Distance: About 3km uphill
Time: About 1–3 hours uphill

Platteklip Gorge is arguably the obvious choice for hikers who want the most straightforward route to the top of Table Mountain.

It is the most direct hiking route to the upper cableway station and follows a steep series of stone steps up the mountain.

The route isn’t technical, but its relentless gradient makes it challenging. SANParks describes it as the “highway” to the top and recommends taking the climb slowly, with regular breaks.

It’s a good option for reasonably fit beginners who want a clearly defined route and don’t mind a steep climb.

SANParks recommends taking plenty of water, particularly during summer, as the route can become extremely hot.

2. Skeleton Gorge

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: About 4km
Time: About 2–4 hours one way

Skeleton Gorge begins in Kirstenbosch and climbs through Afromontane forest before continuing towards Maclear’s Beacon.

The forest provides welcome shade, making it particularly attractive during warmer weather.

The route does, however, involve a steep climb and wooden ladders, and some sections can become slippery after rain. SANParks warns hikers to take particular care in wet conditions.

For hikers who don’t mind a longer climb and want a more varied route than Platteklip Gorge, Skeleton Gorge can be a rewarding alternative.

3. Hike part of the way and take the Table Mountain cableway down

This is not the easiest way to reach the summit, but it can make a Table Mountain hike considerably more manageable.

Visitors can hike up Platteklip Gorge and, if the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is operating, take the cableway down rather than walking back down the mountain.

However, SANParks warns against relying completely on this option. Weather conditions can change rapidly and cause the cableway to close unexpectedly. Hikers should therefore always be prepared to walk back down if necessary.

4. Take the cableway up and walk across Table Mountain’s summit

For visitors whose priority is simply to stand on top of Table Mountain, rather than complete a strenuous summit hike, taking the cableway is by far the easiest option.

Once at the Upper Cableway Station, visitors can walk towards Maclear’s Beacon, the highest point on Table Mountain.

SANParks rates the walk from the Upper Cableway Station to Maclear’s Beacon as easy. The walk takes around 45 minutes to an hour one way.

This is a particularly useful option for families, older visitors or anyone who wants to experience the summit without tackling a steep ascent.

Whichever option you choose, check the weather before setting out.

Table Mountain conditions can change quickly, and temperatures at the summit can be significantly lower than at the base.

SANParks recommends carrying water, sun protection and warm, windproof clothing even on hot days.