Skeleton Gorge to Maclears Beacon, down Platteklip Gorge and contour to Lower Cable Station - Table Mountain (Cape Town)

This one way variation of a Table Mountain climb starts at Kirstenbosch, after parking and entering the gardens (there may he an entrance fee depending on the route you take to the trailhead) it follows the signs up to skeleton Gorge where one crosses a few contour paths before heading straight into the forested Skeleton gorge. All intersections around Kirstenbosch are well signposted. Once one heads up Skeleton Gorge the trail steepens and reaches a few step ladders near the top of the gorge. Shortly thereafter the trail levels off and one can detour to the reservoir as we did but did not stay long as wind pelted us with sand. The trail then turns back to the intersection and follows the route upward to Maclears Beacon and the cable way signs. After some more gentle climbing through fields of King Proteas, watsonias, and a couple of unique Erica's one reaches Maclears Beacon, the summit of table mountain. While the beacon is a good spot to visit and the highest point on the mountain the real impressive views are from in and around the cable car station, this area is also packed with tourists who have taken the cable car up (I highly recommend table mountain on months when the cable car is closed for maintenance). The upper cable car area has a shop a restaurant and a Cafe. The restaurant at the cable station is reasonably well priced, the burger was fantastic and cold beer is available on tap, very different from the vast majority of mountain summits on almost any hike, a welcomed treat after a good climb. After exploring the summit and enjoying the views (they are usually a lot better than this recordings cloudy white out pictures would suggest) the trail heads back towards the intersection at the top of platteklip gorge. At the intersection it's a left down Platteklip Gorge which zig zags down beneath high cliff walls before exiting at Tafelberg road. Before the exit the path splits and one can take the path to the lower cable station as an alternative to walking along the road. This route is a contour path with very little incline or decline and offers some rather unique sightings like yellow pincushion Proteas and overhang cave features. Shortly after reaching the back of the cable car the path cuts down to the parking area on Tafelberg road. Alternatively one could continue to kloof corner before exiting or if you are really feeling up for a challenge take the contour all the way back to Kirstenbosch. This route can be done by dropping one car off at the lower cable station before heading to Kirstenbosch or just a simple Uber back to Kirstenbosch from the lower cable station once the hike is done. Overall this is a great combo route up and down table mountain. It provides the forest and coolness on the ascent up skeleton gorge. The dam at the top of the gorge is a great stop for a rest and a sight in its own right. Mclears beacon and the top of table mountain offer great views in all directions and platteklip gorge makes for a dramatic descent with great views over Cape Town CBD. This route is rather long and somewhat strenuous especially if one isn't particularly fit. However if taken at a slow pace with ample stops it can be done and is enjoyable. The interesting fauna and flora on table mountain is always a plus and each route up/down and combination of routes up and down can provide a unique day on the otherwise familiar mountain. As for security always be cautious at parking areas when starting or finishing (Kirstenbosch has managed security and this usually issue free) around Tafelberg road. Do not leave any valuables in your car and if possible do not bring valuables on a hike if it can be avoided. In general be cautious esp after dark but do not let these concerns deter you from attempting in any way. Table Mountain is an icon amongst the hiking fraternity this variation makes for a most enjoyable day out