January 24, 2012. With the Green Hub at the Umgeni River mouth as your base and starting point, the 10km Fish Eagle trail is well worth investigating (although I would recommend you do it with a group, to ensure your safety).
The trail is part of the Durban Green Corridor which starts at the Umgeni River mouth, heading up towards Inanda – an initiative aimed at involving both the city and its people in rehabilitating the river area and using its natural assets for watersports and other activities.
The run starts at the Green Hub, and heads over the bridge towards the northern banks of the river, where it swings west and follows the river inland (unless you’re going to take a 3km loop along the mangroves. The mangroves is an environmentally sensitive area, so rather walk the wooden boards along this section). Head west along the river for a few kilometres before crossing the river on a foot bridge, after which you’ll turn around at Intersite Avenue, run next to rail tracks and towards the Windsor Park golf course, before heading for home.
Sounds simple? Well, it’s still a good 10km workout and you can take it as fast or slow as you want it. I’d run this one in the early morning or when the worst heat of the day has passed. As with any trail run, watch your footing, especially on the track under the trees on the northern bank of the Umgeni.
Where: The Green Hub is just below the M4 freeway bridge, close to the river mouth, on the southern bank. 31 Stiebel Road, Blue Lagoon, Durban.
Distance: It’s about 10km (although there is the option of adding a 3km loop through the mangroves).
Who should do it?: The walk/trail is suited to all fitness levels. While it’s probably a sprint for the superfit (humidity and hot summer days notwithstanding), there’s enough of a challenge to test the walkers and weekend warriors. Includes a tough, exposed section towards Springfield Park.
Contact info: Green Hub: 031 303 8476; E-mail: greenhub@durban.gov.za
www.durbangreencorridor.co.za:
Editor’s tip: It can get really hot and sticky running along the river’s edge, so it’d be a good idea to take along plenty water to keep you properly hydrated. Be aware that the mangroves is an environmentally sensitive area; please walk the boardwalk section and show respect to the environment.