New Route Markers on the Ribbok Trail

Members of the Bankenveld Region of the SANParks Honorary Rangers are very proud of the new route markers they recently erected along the Ribbok Hiking Trail in the Golden Gate Highlands National Park.

The 28 km hike is now well marked with sturdy steel markers to indicate distance and direction, so hikers can relax and enjoy the magnificent views across this beautiful park instead of worrying about which way to go — an enjoyable task with a satisfying outcome!

Freshly installed route markers along the Ribbok Hiking Trail. Photo: SANParks Honorary Rangers

Sturdy steel markers now guide hikers confidently along the trail. Photo: SANParks Honorary Rangers

New signage installed to enhance trail safety and clarity. Photo: SANParks Honorary Rangers

Magnificent mountain views along the Ribbok Trail. Photo: SANParks Honorary Rangers

About the Ribbok Trail

The Ribbok Trail is a two-day, 28 km circular hike in the Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the Free State. Traversing the high-altitude grasslands of the Maluti Mountains, the route showcases the park’s striking sandstone formations, rolling hills, and sweeping views across the eastern escarpment. Along the way, hikers may spot black wildebeest, eland, blesbok, and the trail’s namesake – the graceful grey rhebok (Pelea capreolus). Overnight accommodation is provided in a basic hikers’ hut halfway along the trail, making it a perfect weekend adventure for moderately fit hikers.

Credits

Content and photos courtesy of the SANParks Honorary Rangers. Published with acknowledgment and gratitude for their ongoing volunteer work in maintaining South Africa’s national parks and trails.