In the heart of the Nelshoogte forest reserve, nestled between the not-so-faraway lands of Badplaas and Barberton, lies a hiking adventure that’s been whispered about by the trees and sung by the rivers – the Queen Rose Trail. It’s not just a trail; it’s a rite of passage for the fairly fit and the bravely booted. Over two days and 21 kilometers, this trail promises not only to test your mettle but also to treat your senses.
The Setting
Picture this: a lush landscape cradled in the embrace of the eastern escarpment, where the Queens and Montrose rivers converge in a symphony of natural beauty. It’s said that those who have walked the Queen Rose Trail boast it to be the most scenic in the country. Bold claim? Absolutely. But once you’re there, amidst the riverine forests, cascading waterfalls, and pools that look like they’ve been plucked straight out of a fantasy novel, you might just find yourself nodding in agreement, too enchanted to protest.
The Journey
Your adventure begins at the crack of dawn, or whenever you manage to drag yourself out of bed, at the Nelshoogte Nature Reserve. And let’s not forget the mountain bikers weaving their paths in a blur of enthusiasm and pedal power – yes, they’ve found their slice of paradise here, too.
Divided into two distinct sections, the Queen Rose Trail plays a game of “choose your own adventure.” Do you start with the Montrose section, a 13 km descent into the realm of Alvin’s Falls, through pine plantations, and along slippery river banks? Or perhaps you’re feeling particularly bold and opt for the uphill challenge of the Queens River section, an 8 km trek through indigenous bush and a valley that promises humidity, a suspension bridge, and the joy of a foefie slide.
The Characters
On your journey, you’ll meet a cast of characters straight out of a botanist’s dream: indigenous trees gossiping in the breeze, plants of every shape and size vying for your attention, and pools so inviting, you’d swear they were flirting with you.
The Accommodations
Let’s talk about the overnight stays. The Makesh hut, powered by the sun itself and boasting a natural pool, offers a reprieve from the day’s escapades. It’s here that you can reflect on the day’s journey, nurse any slips or trips, and perhaps pen an ode to your hiking boots for carrying you through. The Queens View hut, on the other hand, rewards the uphill climbers with views that might just make you forget any uphill battle.
Why Walk the Queen Rose Trail?
In a world where the quest for the ‘grammable moment often overshadows the journey, the Queen Rose Trail offers something refreshingly different. It’s a chance to disconnect, to literally take the road less traveled (because let’s be honest, not all those who wander are lost – some are just on the Queen Rose Trail).
So, if you’re fairly fit, possess a good pair of hiking boots, and have a penchant for adventure, the Queen Rose Trail awaits. It’s a journey of natural beauty, unexpected challenges, and the kind of stories you’ll tell for years to come. Just remember, as you embark on this trek, it’s not just about reaching the end – it’s about enjoying every slip, slide, and scenic moment along the way. Happy hiking!
