Additional Information
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Day Hike Requirements
Rules of the JHC
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Hikers must follow the instructions of the appointed leader and must remain with the main party, unless the leader has agreed to a splinter group controlled by a nominated sub-leader. Carry your medical aid card or details with you at all times.
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No fires may be lit. (Except at designated sites, and with the permission of the hike leader only, and must be extinguished completely before leaving the site.)
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All litter must be carried away.
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No uprooting of plants or picking of flowers is permitted, and care must be taken to avoid damaging trees, fences or private property.
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Dogs and radios are not allowed on hikes or at camps.
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Anyone under the age of 18 years who attends a hike, must be the responsibility of a nominated member.
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Nude bathing can be offensive. Please exercise discretion.
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All behaviour likely to bring discredit to the name of the club, is to be avoided.
Informative Links
- Hiking Resource Guide - Careful preparation and a mind for safety are essential when planning a hike.
Why Hiking
There’s more to hiking than just putting one foot in front of the other. This you can do while walking around the block ... BUT ... once you have experienced hiking, you will never look back.
A certain degree of fitness is necessary, and it is important to wear good hiking boots with a thick pair of socks - possibly two pairs.
Hiking alone in South Africa is not advisable but there are several hiking clubs to choose from, depending on the areas in which you wish to hike. One of the advantages of hiking with a club is the camaraderie. At night, after a day's hiking, sitting around the camp fire and chatting about the day’s challenges is all part of the experience.
Leave the hustle and bustle of the city and go out into the country where the air is clear, the environment interesting, and the tranquility can be savoured. Hiking is an excellent de-stressing activity. Its great to swim in a natural rock pool, or just relax those weary legs in the cool waters of a stream.
We cater for all fitness levels and age groups. Sunday hikes are divided into four groups, from Level 1 to Level 4, Level 1 being a slow group for beginners and the not-so-energetic, and Level 4 being the fast group who do it at a trot! This means you pick a group according to your age and fitness level. The club also has a very active Adventure hiking section, which is becoming very popular and this group is growing in size and popularity.
Hiking is not a walk in the park. We often hike over rough terrain without paths, with a bit of rock climbing thrown in, as well as some really steep ascents. This is where perserverance and stamina come into play, but the reward once on top is worth the effort, and it generally becomes easier as the day unfolds. The descent can sometimes be more difficult than the ascent as the strain is put on to the knees. Difficulties and successes are enjoyed not only by the individual but the whole group.
Come and join us on a hike and experience the highs, the lows, the challenges, the disappointments. Get some exercise and feel great!
