Pass-to-Pass Trail - George - GARDEN ROUTE ADVENTURE GUIDE

Pass-to-Pass Hiking Trail
and Losberg

This is a wonderfull outing if you are in search of lots of fresh air and sunshine.

This is an out-and-back or one way route and can be done in either direction. The start is either at the old quarry at the top of the Montague Pass or at the TV antennae (also known as Sputnik) at the top of the Outeniqua Pass. Unless you feel exceptionally energetic and plan to turn around at the end and walk back to the start, which is quite feasible if you start early, organize transport back.

Be aware that the paths are extremely slippery after rain, especially when descending to the streams. In summer it can become really hot on the mountain slopes.

More or less halfway along the route there is a 1.3km detour leading to Losberg (851m). It certainly is worth the effort and rewards are spectacular views of George. This is an ideal spot for lunch. As you indulge in your snacks, see if you can spot Victoria Bay which is visible on a clear day.

Please don't litter.

Distances: The route is 7.5km in distance, including the detour to Losberg, and can be done in 3 hours. (one way)

Difficulty: Moderate

Managed by: CapeNature

Permits/Costs: Free. Please obtain a self-issue permit from Witfontein Forestry Station

Route Markers: N/A. The path is clear throughout with the exception of a section leading up to Losberg, just keep on going up to the top of this loose standing hill.

Directions: The trail can be accessed from both the Outeniqua and Montague pass. The easiest is to drive up the Outeniqua Pass from George all the way to the top. As you crest the highest part off the pass you will see there is a red and white antenna structure on the right with a concrete service road leading to it, turn in there and park outside the antenna's fence, the trail starts there. The other access point to the trail is at the top of the Montague pass. As you drive over the top of the Montague pass from George's side you will see a small parking spot on the left with extremely white sand, you can also park and start here. Witfontein Forestry Station is at the base of the Outeniqua Pass when heading out of George towards Oudtshoorn. The Montague Pass (gravel) can be taken from here.

Coordinates:
Outeniqua Pass start: S33 52.934 E22 23.965
Montague Pass start: S33 52.992 E22 25.867
Loskop Peak: S33 53.458 E22 24.836

Other: The water in the streams is drinkable, the dark colour of the water is due to the tannins and humic acids from the leaves on the forest floor. Please take water as there is not always water in the streams.