WSAR and partners urge Table Mountain hikers to carry more water this summer
WSAR has urged Table Mountain hikers to start early, carry enough water and look out for fellow trail users as summer conditions make popular routes such as Platteklip Gorge more challenging.
Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) has advised hikers on Table Mountain to bring ample water, begin their ascent early, and remain alert for fellow climbers. This recommendation emerged following a safety meeting atop the mountain, where representatives from the US Consulate in Cape Town and Canada's High Commission convened. During this gathering, WSAR re-emphasized the importance of public safety ahead of the summer hiking season.
"Taking a moment to catch your breath, admire your environment, and check in with those around you can be just as vital as reaching the peak," WSAR emphasized. The organization noted that even a simple act of assessing conditions, resting, and checking in with other hikers could be as crucial as summiting the peak. WSAR reported that during a recent encounter on Platteklip Gorge, two trail runners shared over 20 liters of water with numerous hikers who had already exhausted their water supplies before reaching the midpoint of their climb.
This incident highlighted the rapid onset of heat, steep terrain, and strenuous activity on Table Mountain, even on popular trails. "It serves as a stark reminder of how quickly the heat and physical demands of the mountain can catch us unprepared, and how having sufficient water can truly make a significant difference," WSAR stated.
As summer approaches, WSAR urged hikers to adopt additional safety measures. "As we transition into summer, we urge everyone to start their hike early, bring more water than they anticipate needing, and make decisions based on the conditions they encounter," WSAR advised. The organization stressed that safety is a shared responsibility, encouraging hikers to support one another.
"From sharing advice, offering water, or simply checking in on a fellow hiker, these small acts of kindness matter," WSAR concluded. WSAR expressed gratitude to the British Consulate-General in Cape Town for facilitating the collaboration, acknowledged the participating organizations, and thanked their trail runners for aiding hikers on the Platteklip Gorge route. "A safer mountain begins with all of us," WSAR affirmed.
Written by urgent.news from IOL's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
