Old Dipping Tank and Yellowwood Forest Loop - (Injisuthi - Drakensberg)

A well worthwhile and easy loop providing access to a few of Injisuthi’s attractions close to the camp. Attempting at sunrise the orange and pink glow sets the scene for the finest views of Cathkin Peak, Sterkhorn and Monks Cowl which can be seen through a gap cut by the Delumhlwazini river through foothills of the lower berg. The trail which starts at either the campsite (as this recording does), or from the chalets and then follows the path which leads off the Western end of the camp. This path is marked by an engraved stone with “Old Dipping Tank, Forest Guards Gut, and Cowl Fork” on it. Thereafter the path continues Westward and begins to ascend gradually with views of the high berg appearing more prominent in front, the camp below if one looks back, and forested kloofs to the North. The trail then begins to flatten out and turn Southward before reaching the intersection that takes one to the old dipping tanks. The tanks are on top of the hill and are an interesting feature of the trail. Water still pools in them and the stone wall surrounding the tanks is still intact in some places. After the tanks the trail descends to the Old Woman Stream and continues on and into the Yellowwood Forest. The trail crosses the river over bridges in this section, all whilst under indigenous forest canopy. There are multiple pools and small waterfalls which would be good for swimming on warm days. After passing a few giant Yellowwood tree specimens (a few of them likely over 400 years old) the trail then exits the forest and cuts back in a Northernly direction to avoid disturbing the staff accommodation (make sure to be quiet and/or ask permission if you opt to use this route through as a shortcut back to the camp). At the intersection which you would have passed earlier a right turn East will lead you back to the start at the camp. In summary this is a very easy, non-strenuous but enjoyable short trail in the Injisuthi area. It can easily be attempted by all ages and fitness levels and being so close to the camp one is not likely to get lost or venture too far. That being said, there are a few intersections on this trail so pay attention to the recording and the engraved signs. The tanks provide an interesting historical site and viewpoint while the forest section with its waterfalls and pools make it scenic with minimal effort. This is a good option if pressed for time at Injisuthi or if you require something easy and short.