Jubilee Creek
I often speak about hiking in the Garden Route, mostly because it is one of the most picturesque places to hike in. Day rambles, or even a couple of hours are quite doable in the area — just pop into a SANParks Office and collect a brochure of the region, it’s that simple.
Lush greenery and serene forest paths along the Jubilee Creek trail.
The walk I do most is Jubilee Creek, as it is my absolute favourite. More often than not, I find myself wandering with a camera in hand and inspecting the trees, ferns and other little features the forest has to offer. The calming effect of this wandering about seems to clear your head, and your mind feels less busy in these dense green spaces.
Ferns and forest textures along the shaded path.
Besides that, I indulge in the fresh air and drink water from the cola-coloured streams along the way. The treat underfoot on the soft, rich earth always seems to smell best in the early mornings, and the leaves glisten with pearl drops of moisture captured in the breaking dawn. The Black Witch Hazel gathers and stores much of this moisture and bursts with liveliness as it disperses its fluid onto the forest floor, feeding the roots of the trees and plants in need of water.
Clear, dark streams wind through the lush forest.
Not only is Jubilee Creek a beautiful forest hike, but it is also filled with history from more than a century and a half ago. Remnants of the gold mining era can be seen along the way, sparking the imagination about what happened here all those years ago. In time, the forest has reclaimed its earth and filled it with a wealth of its own.
Traces of the forest’s gold mining history blend into the landscape.
The path cuts into the forest along a creek, and the constant bubbling of water and birdsong are the only sounds that can be heard among the shrubs and branches.
The trail meanders alongside a gentle forest stream.
The 2.4km section of the Outeniqua Hiking Trail ends near a forest waterfall where you can cool down and relax. Often, we remove our shoes and dip our feet in the crisp, cool water while admiring the surroundings of indigenous trees and lush ferns. The route doubles back on itself, and you usually see things in a slightly different way on the return. The sun breaking through the trees, scattering its rays across the forest floor, is something only the forest knows how to do well. The hike ends at a picnic spot next to the creek — perfect if you wish to linger and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere a little longer.
The small waterfall at the end of the trail offers the perfect spot to rest and refresh.
So next time you’re out and about in Knysna, head to Bibby’s Hoek on the foothold of the Outeniqua Mountains for an exploration into the Goudveld Forest. Discover why this area is so loved and why many of the mysteries of the region are hidden among these ancient trees.
The picnic area beside the creek — an inviting end to a tranquil walk.
To read more of Rose’s adventures and explorations, visit her blog Gotravelbug.