Wolfberg Arch Overnight return via the Wide Crack, Day 2 – (Cederberg NR – Sanddrif Resort)

Recorded on Sunday 24.09.2023. The route the next day after overnighting at the Arch follows the same route back to the top of the cracks. The recording for the route from Sanddrif to the Arch via the narrow crack can be found in this Wikiloc profile. The path seems easier to find on the return trip, partly because its fresh in one’s memory and partly because the slight descent reveals more of the route. Once the top of the cracks are reached this recording follows the easier wide crack down back to Sanddrif Resort (the previous recording ascended via the narrow crack, bags were left at the top of the wide crack to do the narrow crack easily). The wide crack is far more navigable but less dramatic than the narrow cracks. There are trees, tall bushes and sections of grass which is some welcomed greenery especially if shade and cool is needed on hot summer days. After the gradual green section through the wide crack it’s a slow careful descent over large boulders. Eventually the boulders subside somewhat and the zig zagging gravel sections of the path back to the parking lot becomes the norm for the remainder of the trail, its straightforward and covers the same path as done the previous day so one is not likely to get lost. In summary this is a fantastic trail despite the crowds that seem to peak on weekends and especially on long weekends. Ideally if one can attempt this in fair weather conditions during the week this will prove ideal for privacy and a sense of wilderness in this spectacular place. The trail does have a somewhat challenging ascent and descent which I roughly compare to Table Mountain’s Platteklip Gorge in terms of distance, difficulty and gradient so this will be a tough day out for the unfit or inexperienced. Despite the climb the views and the cracks themselves are extremely rewarding and an overnight at the Wolfberg Arch is an experience one wont soon forget. The Cederberg is generally safe and the safety concerns one might have in Cape Town soon fall away as one realizes just how remote the area is. That being said be careful in the mountains, take all the necessary precautions, tread carefully, watch your footing and don’t rush as you might be far from help or other hikers. Respect the wilderness and be prepared for all eventualities. Enjoy this somewhat challenging but extremely rewarding trail.