The Kloof Conservancy gives their expert advice on the Nkutu (Red) trail.
This is the shortest walk in the reserve but the spot at the bottom of the waterfall is most rewarding and enjoyable. The trail will take approximately 1hr return and you will retrace your steps once you have arrived at the waterfall. The trail starts from the parking at the Nkutu Picnic Site where you will note the Nkutu Trail sign pointing you to the wooden bridge which crosses the Nkutu River.
After crossing the river follow the path to the right which immediately opens up into the Nkutu grasslands. These are highly threatened KZN Sandstone Sourveld grasslands and are currently under severe threat in the reserve from invasive bracken fern. These grasslands contain many different flowering species which flower throughout the year so take your time and observe the kaleidoscope of colour! Follow the path through the grassland for a short distance until you come to a sign at which point the path turns to the right and you start a very steep decent to the Nkutu River. You will be walking under the riverine forest canopy all the way down to the river.
About hallway down you will come across a Rock Hyrax (Dassie) midden and you can also observe the two types of streptocarpus that grow in this section – Streptocarous haygarthii and molweniensis. When you arrive at the river the falls are visible but the path is not very clear and you have to boulder hop towards the falls.
The rocks here are covered with amazingly colourful lichen – one of the best spots in the reserve to observe these species. Lichen are plants that consist of algae and a fungus. The fungus forms the structure of the lichen and its rhizoids (primitive root-like structures). The algae provides food by photosynthesis, while the fungus provides shelter, minerals and water.
After a short section of boulder hoping you can re-join a short clear path to the bottom of the falls. The pool at the bottom of the falls is at times very attractive as there is a large sand-bank creating the impression of an exotic beach and it is a good spot to enjoy a picnic! Note the many plant species growing on the cliff faces.
Retrace your steps back to the picnic site. Difficulty: As this is a fairly short walk is suitable for all walkers with moderate fitness. The decent and ascent are however challenging and boulder hoping may not suitable for all persons!
Security: Walking in the reserve is safe – normal precautions for walking in isolated areas apply.
Directions: The reserve is well signposted from all access points to Kloof.
The Nkutu entrance is on Valley Drive, Forest Hills. Entry Fee: R20 Adults, R10 Children under 12. Contact: Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife – Conservation Officer 031 7643515