#10 Noordhoek Twin Peaks
Two peaks, two proper climbs and views that get a little surreal. A tough 12 km over Chapman's Peak and Noordhoek Peak that feels much bigger than it looks on paper. Beautiful, challenging and seriously rewarding.
Route information
Last verified · September 2026
Why it made the challenge
Why we chose it
This might be the longest 12 km you've ever done. We chose this route for the mind blowing views, the wild beauty of this part of the peninsula, and because by this point in the challenge, we think you're ready for something that asks a little more of you. There's plenty of climbing, technical trail and tired legs on the way back, but also some seriously special mountain running. It's tough, it's beautiful, and that's why it earns its place in the challenge.
Scenic highlights
- Noordhoek Beach and Kommetjie laid out far below
- The wild saddle between the two climbs
- Big peninsula views from Noordhoek Peak at 764m
Key challenges
- Two sustained climbs with very little flat running
- Technical, exposed terrain on the upper mountain
- The final descent off Chapman's Peak on tired legs
Step-by-step navigation guide
- 0.0 km
Trailhead
Park in the bay on the side of the road, then walk about 300m up to the trail start. Start tracking your watch here, not at the parking bay, so your activity lines up properly for verification.
- 0.2 km
Opening up
A gentle start while the legs warm up. Soon Noordhoek Beach and the Atlantic open up in front of you, with Chapman's Peak Drive curling along the coast below. Enjoy the easy bit.
- 0.8 km
Turning technical
Time to climb. The trail gets rockier and more technical from here, with a few exposed sections along the way. The route is well marked, just keep an eye out for the green arrows.
- 1.3 km
The scramble
Yep, it gets steeper. Hands might come into play here, and there's definitely some sweat involved. Take your time and keep moving up.
- 2.0 km
Chapman's Peak
You've reached Chapman's Peak. Wow, that was a proper climb. Take a minute, enjoy the views and have a snack. You've earned a breather, and there's plenty more trail ahead.
- 2.05 km
Descent begins
Once you've caught your breath at the beacon, look for the path heading down to the left. Follow it as it descends above Chapman's Peak Drive. It's a fairly runnable section, so enjoy the easier going and let your legs recover a little. There's another long climb ahead.
Take it in
This is one of the more runnable stretches of the route, so enjoy the easier going and remember to look up. Proteas, mountains and the Atlantic below you. Not a bad place to be.
- 3.8 km
The cairn
Look out for the cairn as you reach a split in the path. Keep right and follow the trail all the way up towards Silvermine Nature Reserve. It's a long climb from here, but nothing too technical. Find a comfortable rhythm and enjoy the views as you go.
Second climb
The second climb towards Noordhoek Peak starts here. Follow the path as it gradually makes its way up into Silvermine Nature Reserve. Find your rhythm, take your time and enjoy the views along the way.
- 5.5 km
Near the top
You're getting close to Noordhoek Peak now. Turn left when you reach the gravel road and continue for roughly 1 km. When the road splits, the gravel road continues to the right, but you'll take the sandy single track to the left. Noordhoek Peak is just ahead.
- 6.2 km
Noordhoek Peak
The white sandy trail takes you the final few metres to Noordhoek Peak. Nice work, that climb was no joke. Take in the view, have a snack and give the legs a proper reset before turning around.
Heading back
Once you've taken in the views and had a chance to recover, it's time to head back exactly the way you came. You're only halfway, so save some energy for the climb back up to Chapman's Peak, and keep in mind that the technical descent from there can be tough on tired legs.
If you're really struggling, there is a backup option at the cairn where you can descend to Chapman's Peak Drive and return via the road. This variation won't count towards challenge completion, but it's there if you need it.
Important
- Route information is provided as a guide only.
- Conditions may change without notice.
- Always assess weather, trail conditions, route suitability, and your own abilities before setting out.
- Participants are responsible for their own safety and decisions at all times.
The record board for this route.
Verified completions only, one row per athlete using their best accepted attempt. Climb the board by returning and improving your time.
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Before you go
Practical details to help you complete the route safely.
Park at the beach end of Noordhoek near the Chapman's Peak Drive toll gate. The trailhead is a short walk from the parking area.
There is little to no water on this route, even in the wetter months, so carry everything you need for the full distance. The final descent off Chapman's Peak is the section most likely to catch you out: it is steep, technical and you reach it on tired legs, so save something for the way down.
There is little to no water on route, even in the wet months. Carry all the water you need.
Patchy to absent on the upper mountain. Do not rely on your phone.
Dogs are allowed with a valid SANParks My Activity Permit. That said, think carefully before bringing one: this route has big sustained climbs, technical and exposed sections, and no water along the way. It is a genuinely hard day out for a dog.
Sunrise to sunset. Give yourself enough daylight for the full route.
SANParks Emergency: 086 110 6417
From the Trail
A little glimpse of the route through the eyes of the Cape Trail community.
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Safety & responsible trail use
Cape Trail provides guidance, not guarantees. Please read before heading out.
Water sources shown on routes are seasonal and may be dry. Never rely on natural water sources, always carry sufficient water.
Trail conditions may change due to weather, erosion, maintenance work, fire, flooding, or other environmental factors.
Route descriptions and photographs are provided as guidance only. Users remain responsible for navigation and route-finding decisions.
Mountain weather can change rapidly. Users are responsible for checking conditions before starting.
Users participate entirely at their own risk.
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