The Eerstekrantz Trail, located within the Cradock Town boundaries and administered by the Municipality, offers a picturesque hiking experience with panoramic views of the Fish River Valley and Cradock landmarks. Here are some details and tips for those interested in exploring the trail:
- Location and Accessibility:
- The trail is situated within Cradock Town boundaries and is administered by the Municipality.
- No admission is charged, and no permit is required to access the area.
- The trail is accessible 24 hours a day.
- Distance and Starting Point:
- The trail is approximately 5 km from the Cradock Town Hall to the start of the trail.
- Two options for starting the hike: Option 1 begins by taking the Hofmeyer road divergent from Cradock in a northwesterly direction. Option 2 starts at the Cradock Spa.
- Panoramic Viewpoints:
- The trail offers a commanding view of the Fish River Valley, surrounding fields, hills, and vales.
- Notable Cradock landmarks visible from the trail include the Dutch Reformed Mother Church, Buffelskop, Saltpeterskop, Oukop, Marlow High School, golf course, the airstrip, and the foot of the trail at the Cradock Spa.
- Paraphernalia and Recommendations:
- Recommended items for hikers include comfortable walking shoes, water, sunscreen, a hat, a camera, and binoculars.
- Children under 5 years of age and medically unfit individuals are advised not to attempt the hike.
- Hiking Directions:
- Follow white footprints painted on the rocks to navigate the trail.
- Along the route, hikers may come across historical features such as a derelict concrete water tank that was part of Cradock’s original water supply system.
- The summit and peak of the trail can be reached in approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
- Historical Inscriptions:
- At the “Koppie” (hillock), there is a buttress with an inscription written by a British soldier during the Boer War. The inscription reads, “The heavens declare the glory of God, the firmament showed his handy-work” and is preceded by a crucifix and ended with a crown.
- Trail End and Return Options:
- The trail ends at a gate on the main road. Hikers can choose to return via the same route or continue down the trail in a north, north-westerly direction.
- There are two options for returning: either take a 600-meter walk back or cross the main road and go through the gate opposite the beginning of the trail.
- Wildlife and Nature Observation:
- The trail offers opportunities to observe wild animals, birds, and plant life.
- Along the route, hikers may encounter a pepper grove and a farm track leading back to the car via the weir.
The Eerstekrantz Trail provides a scenic and historically rich hiking experience for those looking to explore the natural beauty and landmarks of the Cradock area.