Scenic Hiking Trail
Treat your eyes and activate your muscles in one hearty swoop with a nature walk through the green landscape of Barberton. A popular scenic hiking trail, the Queen Rose Trail, is one avid hikers would claim as a must-do, especially if your love for the outdoors and exercise is rounded off by a love of photography. The Queen Rose Trail is crammed with spectacular photographic moments beginning from its starting point set in Nelshoogte Nature Reserve, which is right between Barberton and Badplaas.
The hiking trail is divided into two sections according to the two rivers, Montrose and Queens, which makes up a good portion of the trail. The full hike is 21 km in distance and takes approximately 2 days to complete. The Montrose part of the trail is 13 km begins with an incline though is predominantly downhill, while the Queens part of the trail is 8 km and is uphill. Either part of the trail can be done first.
Whichever part you end up choosing, the indigenous trees, assortment of plant life, waterfalls and rivers are bound to leave you spellbound as you hike through the magnificent Barberton terrain. Keep in mind that the trail’s close proximity to the riverbank can make it slippery. So consider sensible footwear to reduce unexpected slips.
Mountain Biking Trail
Outdoor cyclists in want of an invigorating experience set in a striking environment need not look any further than the Queen Rose Mountain Biking Trail. Set just outside of Barberton, is a mountain biking trail that is sure to capture any nature loving adrenaline junkie’s heart. The MTB trail primarily goes through Komatiland Forest, however, does share the trail with the Queen Rose Hiking Trail.
There are three routes to choose from the Blue Route, the Yellow Route, and the Red Route. Each route allows for a particular distance. If you want to test the waters and experience a shorter trail pick the Blue Route which is 13 km and starts from Makesh Hut taking you along the main road to Barberton. If you would like to have a longer trail with technical aspects that are tailored for the more intermediate MTB cyclist, then choose the Yellow Route which is 33 km. For the cyclist who wants more of a challenge, the Red Route is a definite must. This mountain biking trail route is 45 km and built for the expert rider.
Regardless of the route you choose to ride, your time on the trail is poised to be one filled with the natural beauty of the Eastern escarpment of Southern Africa. From the eucalyptus and pine plantations that peppers Komatiland to the riverbanks of Montrose and Queens River each moment is one to be a memorable one.
Barberton Makhonjwa Geotrail
For a trail that requires more than two wheels try the Barberton Makhonjwa Geotrail. This 38 km self-drive route allows visitors to the small mining town of Barberton a close-up exploration of ancient geological formations. These very rock formations are what acquired Barberton the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site status. More than 3 billion years old, these ancient geological outcrops grant visitors to Barberton a glimpse into the distant past known as the Archaean period. A privilege that not many people can experience as not every place on earth allows for easy access to see, first-hand, something that existed during its initial development.
In Barberton, however, you can see this snapshot of geological history from the comfort of your car. This World Heritage Site includes 11 geosites replete with information boards that provide additional information on the geological composition of the ancient rock formation. For added inclusivity, the information boards also have braille labels describing the age-old site.
While enjoying the Barberton Makhonjwa Geotrail, keep in mind that you are driving through a landscape that preserves life, that existed during a period of time when the earth was just beginning to cool down, and allow for the life-forming organism we know it to be today. For those who would like their geotrail experience to be narrated to them there is a guided tour option.