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Chain Ladder Pass

Listed under
Hike
Pass
Region
Northern Drakensberg
Area
Royal Natal
Type
Day Hike
Overnight
Explore
Passes
Peaks
Chain Ladder Pass

Route facts

Distance (km)
8.4
Duration (hrs)
4
Difficulty
Moderate
Altitude (m)
2950

Route description

The Chain Ladder route reaches the escarpment from Sentinel Car Park, approached via Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge. The ladder ascent is steep and exposed, requiring fitness, confidence with heights and preparation for sudden weather changes.

The ascent uses chain ladders in successive sections, with parallel ladder options. Check current trail access, road or shuttle arrangements and guiding options with Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge before setting out. The lodge’s getting-here information covers access arrangements.

Explore the Royal Natal area: Royal Natal’s valley walks lie below the Amphitheatre. The Sentinel Car Park approach is via Witsieshoek and Phuthaditjhaba, rather than the Royal Natal entrance gate. Read our Royal Natal Nature Reserve guide for more about the surrounding mountain area.

GPS track

GPS Track Details
Track length: 4.20 km
Total ascent: 616 m
Total descent: 158 m
More GPS track information and download

⚠️ Mountain safety notice

Before starting any high Berg trek, log your group in the official EKZNW Mountain Rescue Register.

Download Rescue Register (PDF)

Location map

Photos

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