Best trails in Table Mountain National Park

4.5(38,704 reviews)

South Africa
:
#1 of 19 national parks

Situated directly next to Cape Town, Table Mountain National Park is the most popular national park in South Africa. Known for its biodiversity and stunning views of the skyline, this park an outdoor recreation playground. The park is partially fragmented into separate sections spanning the entirety of the Cape Peninsula, known as the Northern, Central and Southern sections of the park. The Cape Floral Kingdom of Table Mountain National Park is one of the richest floral regions in the world. Over 70% of the flowers are endemic to Table Mountain. For this reason United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) awarded Table Mountain Heritage Status for being a natural site that is part of the Cape Floral Kingdom. The mountain was also chosen as one of the new seven world wonders. Table Mountain is thought to be one of the oldest mountains in the world. The rocks of the mountain are approximately 600-million years old. It is the only natural site on the planet to have a constellation of stars named after it. The constellation is called “Mensa”, which means ‘table’ in Latin.

Dogs are allowed in certain sections of the park.

Top trails

#1 - Lion's Head Summit

4.8(2907)

•Hard

•2.8 mi

A great hike in the city. It is a bucket list must-do for Cape Town. Well marked and amazing 360 degree views. Some sections are quite exposed and there are ladders and staples to assist. There is one climbing section with staples and chains, this can be bypassed to the left if too difficult. or if you have a dog. This hike is popular on nights with a full moon (with headlamps) as well as at sunrise. The Cape Floral Kingdom of Table Mountain National Park is one of the richest floral regions...

#2 - Platteklip Gorge to Upper Cable Station

4.8(1663)

•Hard

•3.3 mi

Platteklip Gorge is the oldest and most direct hiking route up Table Mountain. It is very well marked. It is the suggested route for amateurs and first time Table Mountain hikers as it is very difficult to get lost. You can choose to walk around at the top and then walk back down or cable car down and then head back to the trailhead along the tar road. The weather can change very quickly on Table Mountain, cloud often rises up out of nowhere and the wind picks up to reach gale-force speeds....

#3 - Cecilia Waterfall via Cecilia Forest

4.7(2060)

•Moderate

•2.5 mi

Beautiful, shady and protected hike through indigenous forest. Can get very busy on the weekends in particular. The Cape Floral region of the national park is one of the richest floral regions in the world. Over 70% of the flowers are endemic to the Table Mountain, for this reason United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) awarded Table Mountain Heritage Status for being a natural site that is part of the Cape Floral Kingdom. The mountain was also chosen as...

#4 - India Venster to Upper Cable Station

4.8(910)

•Hard

•1.9 mi

Beautiful views and fun hike, generally takes three or so hours to complete. There are parts where climbing is involved. This is not a route that amateur hikers should attempt alone. The weather can change very quickly on Table Mountain, cloud often rises up out of nowhere and the wind picks up to reach gale-force speeds. Warm clothing is suggested for the top. If the wind speeds are too high the cable car will not be operating. In this case the suggested route down is Platteklip...

#5 - Kasteelspoort Trail to Diving Board

4.7(650)

•Hard

•2.9 mi

While there are many ways to ascend Table Mountain, one of the most epic routes would have to be Kasteelspoort, which takes you up the Western slopes of the mountain known as the 12 Apostles. This is one of the best ways to enjoy the spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and Camps Bay coastlines for which the Mother City has become so famous. You'll also be rewarded with the adventurous opportunity to take a photo on the "diving board" which is not for the feint hearted. The weather can...

#6 - Platteklip Gorge

This trail is rocky and consistently steep. The “stairs” are large rocks and boulders. The views are fantastic on a clear day. This is the suggested route up Table Mountain especially if you have never hiked in the area before. The trail is direct and it is difficult to get lost. Reaching the top cable station once you have summited is well marked and only a few hundred metres further. The weather can change very quickly on Table Mountain, cloud often rises up out of nowhere and the wind...

#7 - Skeleton Gorge - Table Mountain - Cable Station

4.8(520)

•Hard

•4.2 mi

The cable car can be taken down the hill to Tafelberg Road. Alternatively you could hike down Platteklip Gorge to Tafelberg Road. This is well sign posted. The weather can change very quickly on Table Mountain, cloud often rises up out of nowhere and the wind picks up to reach gale-force speeds. Warm clothing is suggested for the top. If the wind speeds are too high the cable car will not be operating. The Cape Floral region of the national park is one of the richest floral regions in the...

#8 - Newlands Forest via the Contour Path

4.5(837)

•Hard

•3.5 mi

Newlands Forest is well loved by locals. The lush, tranquil space in Cape Town is all that remains of the former dense, indigenous forest covering much of the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. Many years ago the forest served as part of the migratory path of the Khoi. Today it’s where people meet to walk their dogs, and stroll or trail run the myriad of paths on the mountainside. The Cape Floral Kingdom of Table Mountain National Park is one of the richest floral regions in the world. Over...

#9 - Chapmans Peak Summit

4.8(651)

•Moderate

•3.1 mi

This is one of the most rewarding hikes in the Cape Peninsula with beautiful fynbos and magnificent 360° views to experience the Peninsula in all its glory! Look out for the proteas and ericas and indigenous trees. You may even spot a black eagle or a fish eagle. Chapmans Peak is the mountain peak around which the famous scenic road, Chapman's Peak Drive is built. It was named after a certain John Chapman, a British sailor sent ashore to check for fresh water in what is now Hout Bay. The...

#10 - Pipe Track from Kloof Nek

The Pipe Track from Kloofnek is a great path that follows the contour of Table Mountain. It is rocky in places but not steep. This route offers beautiful views over Camps Bay and of the 12 Apostles. You can turn back at any time or continue to Woody Ravine or even further towards Corridor Ravine. This route is very popular on the weekends. On very hot days this route is nice and cool in the early mornings as the sun comes over mid morning. The Cape Floral Kingdom of Table Mountain National...

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Visitor info

Passes & fees

Fee required

Table Mountain National Park charges a fee to enter. A local rate is available to residents with proof of identification/residence. Cape Point and Boulders Gates are cash-free and only accept card payments. For more information, please visit: https://www.sanparks.org/parks/table-mountain/rates-entry-fees.

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Trail reviews for Table Mountain National Park

33,331 trailgoers Busiest in January

Ghalieb Masoet

Sep 20, 2025•Hiking

Great conditionsGreat views

Me and my friend the Platteklip Gorge hike up Table Mountain recently — and wow, it was tough but absolutely worth it. It’s a pretty steep climb with endless stone steps, and it really tested my legs and fitness. The views along the way were incredible though — you get this full sweep of Cape Town, Lion’s Head, and the ocean as you climb higher. Reaching the top felt like such an achievement, and standing up there looking out across the city made the effort completely worthwhile. Definitely a hike I’ll never forget.

Table Mountain via India Venster and Platteklip Gorge

Enock Kabamba

Sep 17, 2025

Great conditionsGreat views

Ideal trail for beginners(not too hard not to moderate), can be crowded in peak seasons, breathtakingly wiews of table mountain and Cape Town.

Difficulty: Hard

Lion's Head Summit

Stephen Caput

Aug 18, 2025•Hiking

Best route to the top of table mountain. I definitely suggest being able to do a pull-up or dip for strength considerations before going this route. Some of the chains and ladders require some upper body strength. If you get lost on the trail, look for the YELLOW FOOTPRINTS to guide you to the correct path. Some of them look like they're going straight up but that's actually the correct route.

India Venster to Upper Cable Station

Susanna Kwon

Aug 11, 2025

Easy to parkGreat conditionsGreat views

Great views with lush vegetation. Easier and more green compared to other Table Mountain hikes

Parking: Free, Medium lot

Chapmans Peak Summit

Ghalieb Masoet

Aug 9, 2025•Hiking

Great views

What an unforgettable adventure on one of Table Mountain’s most iconic trails. The real climb begins by the ladders, rock-hopping along the stream, and plenty of steep sections to get your heart racing. Very rewarding with stunning views, the peaceful Hely-Hutchinson Reservoir at the top, and that unbeatable feeling of conquering the mountain. If you’re planning it, bring enough water, wear good shoes, and be ready for some scrambling. Totally worth every step!

Skeleton Nursery Loop

terence lortan

Jul 26, 2025•Hiking

Easy to parkNot crowdedGreat conditionsGreat views

Diagonal up as a really cool adventurous route up to the top of the table mountain plateau. Using corridor ravine and hiking back via the pipe track gives you amazing views across the 12th apostles on the return

Parking: Entry fee, Free

Pipe track via Tranquility Cracks and Woody Ravine

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Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to hike in Table Mountain National Park?

According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in Table Mountain National Park is Lion's Head Summit, which has a 4.8 star rating from 2,907 reviews. This trail is 2.8 mi long with an elevation gain of 1,141 ft.

What is the longest trail in Table Mountain National Park?

According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in Table Mountain National Park is Table Mountain Road Bike Loop. This trail is estimated to be 64.8 mi long.

How many trails are in Table Mountain National Park?

There are 379 trails in Table Mountain National Park. These trails have an average 4.5-star rating from 38,704 AllTrails community reviews.

Which trail has the most elevation gain in Table Mountain National Park?

If you're looking for elevation gain, Table Mountain National Park has you covered. 13 Peaks Challenge boasts the most elevation gain with 22,060 ft of total ascent. The park's runner-up is Table Mountain Road Bike Loop, which will get you 7,854 ft of elevation gain.

Are there camping trails available in Table Mountain National Park?

According to AllTrails.com, there are 3 camping trails in Table Mountain National Park and the most popular is Cape Point Overnight Hike with an average 4.8 star rating from 69 community reviews.

Are there running trails available in Table Mountain National Park?

According to AllTrails.com, there are 84 running trails in Table Mountain National Park and the most popular is Platteklip Gorge with an average 4.7 star rating from 501 community reviews.

Are there biking trails available in Table Mountain National Park?

According to AllTrails.com, there are 22 biking trails in Table Mountain National Park and the most popular is Newlands Forest Loop with an average 4.6 star rating from 391 community reviews.