Cathedral Peak

The peaks of Cathedral (3004m), Cathkin (3149m), Champagne Castle (3248m) and Monk's Cowl (3234m) dominate this park and provide challenging climbs. However, there are many relaxing walks through the valleys and grasslands of the reserve, the Ndedema Gorge being particularly popular with artists and those interested in Bushman paintings of which there are several worthwhile sites.

Other walks include those to Doreen Falls, the trout hatchery, and Rainbow Gorge with its two huge wedged boulders. The climb to Cathedral Peak itself can be accomplished within a day, as can the climb to Cleft Peak, which affords some of the most magnificent scenery to be found anywhere in the Drakensberg.

KwaZulu Wildlife administers a small campsite in the Park and there are caves within the Wilderness Area for those who wish to overnight. Adjacent to the Park is the Cathedral Peak Hotel which gives the impression of being surrounded by the mountains due to its proximity to the Cathedral Spur which juts out from the main escarpment for 4kms.

Close to the park is Mike's Pass, a vehicular road which climbs the 'Little Drakensberg foothills' and rewards tourists with a marvellous panorama of the Central Drakensberg. There are picnic facilities at the summit of the pass.

Cathedral Peak Hiking 036 488 1888

Cathedral Peak Nature Reserve036 488 1880

State Trails: P/Bag X1, Winterton, 3340. 0364 881880

Mnweni