Information on Table Mountain

Information on Table Mountain

Table Mountain image by Marchand De Goede from Fotolia.com

If you're in downtown Cape Town, South Africa, you're in the shadow of Table Mountain--and you have doubtless wondered what wonders that formidable lump of rock has in store. You're in luck. That 15-minute drive to the foot of Table Mountain puts you within range of all manner of adventures.

Air Sports

Table Mountain is home to two mind-blowing paragliding sites, though you'll need at least 200 flights minimum to fly either of them, on account of the treacherous-to-newbies cliff launch. If you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a BASE jumper practicing his art.

Abseiling

At time of publication, Table Mountain was home of the world's highest commercial abseil. The site boasts almost 400 feet of controlled vertical descent.

Hiking

From the trailhead at the parking lot, you can tackle the demanding, spectacular hike that ascends Platteklip Gorge to Table Mountain's highest point. If you're not feeling up to the full hike, a close-by cableway makes the trek up or down quick and convenient.

Climbing

You'll need to be an experienced, strong climber to enjoy most of Table Mountain's tough, massive, multi-pitch routes--though there are a couple of easier routes on Africa Ledge.

Mountain Biking

Those who are up to the task of navigating some stomach-twisting steepness on narrow dirt trails will find that Table Mountain's epic mountain biking may be for them. Bring iron quads.

Article Written By Annette O'Neil

Annette O'Neil graduated from the University of Southern California with degrees in cinema, global communication and geology. A writer for more than a decade, O'Neil has written copy, content and editorial articles for hundreds of clients and publications, including Yoga Awakening Africa and Whole Life Times.

Write for Trails.com
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