Reservoir Climb
All routes
Expert Table Mountain Back Table

Reservoir Climb

A relentless climb to the hidden reservoirs of the Back Table. Big effort, bigger payoff.

14 km
Distance
920 m
Elevation gain
5h 00m
Walking est.
Mark Davids · 2h 41m
Route master
89
Attempts
61
Completions

Route information

Distance
14 km
Elevation gain
920 m
Difficulty
Expert

Last verified · December 2025

Route features

What to expect from the trail itself.

RockyExposedWaterDog FriendlyOut & Back

Before you go

Practical details to help you complete the route safely.

Parking

Constantia Nek parking

Safety notes

Long, committing route. File a trip plan with someone before you leave.

Water availability

Reservoirs visible but not for drinking. Carry 2L+.

Cell reception

None in places

Why it made the challenge

Why we chose it

Reservoir Climb earned its place in the challenge for the way it combines accessibility, beauty, and a genuine mountain feel — exactly the spirit of Cape Trail.

Who it's for

Hikers and trail runners with comfortable mountain experience. Bring appropriate footwear and respect the conditions.

Step-by-step navigation guide

Designed so you can complete this route without a GPS watch.

  1. 0.0 km

    Trailhead

    Start from the lower parking. Follow signs marked 'Reservoir Path'.

  2. 1.8 km

    First climb

    Steady switchbacks through fynbos. Pace yourself — the views start soon.

    A wooden bench at km 1.2 makes a good first water stop.
  3. 4.5 km

    Ridge junction

    Stay right at the cairn. The left line drops to a parallel valley.

    In cloud, the junction is easy to miss — slow down here.
  4. 7.2 km

    High point

    Saddle with 360° view. Good wind shelter behind the rocks if needed.

  5. Photo coming soon
    10.0 km

    Descent

    Gentle runnable contour back down. Watch loose gravel after the bend.

  6. Photo coming soon
    12.4 km

    Finish

    Back at the parking. Submit your activity to log the route.

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.

Safety & responsible trail use

Cape Trail provides guidance, not guarantees. Please read before heading out.

Seasonal water

Water sources shown on routes are seasonal and may be dry. Never rely on natural water sources — always carry sufficient water.

Route conditions

Trail conditions may change due to weather, erosion, maintenance work, fire, flooding, or other environmental factors.

Navigation

Route descriptions and photographs are provided as guidance only. Users remain responsible for navigation and route-finding decisions.

Weather

Mountain weather can change rapidly. Users are responsible for checking conditions before starting.

General responsibility

Users participate entirely at their own risk.

Route results

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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