After successfully clearing 4.5 km of the historic Stanley’s Hiking Trail earlier this year, the Ladismith Trails Committee has now set its sights on rehabilitating all of the “lost” walking routes that once wove through the majestic Swartberg foothills. Under the guidance of a Steering Committee and with invaluable input from 25 local volunteers, significant progress has already been made on reopening sections of the ridge and loop trails that have lain unused.
To ensure the momentum continues—and that the necessary, labour-intensive work is completed on schedule—the Committee has secured a Friends Small Grant of R3 000 and continue to seek local fund-raising support. Their Friends Small Grant will directly cover the employment costs of skilled workers who are tackling the toughest stretches of the trails. Meanwhile, the volunteer teams continue to contribute planning expertise, light labour, and regular progress reviews.
Looking ahead, the project will roll out in two phases: a three-month intensive “Trail Fix” to reopen the key routes, followed continued maintenance, signage creation, and the launch of the “Discover Ladismith” online portal. This new website and social media presence will showcase trail maps, safety guidelines, accommodation options, eateries, and upcoming community hikes—all designed to draw local hikers and visitors from further afield.
Beyond creating safe, beautiful routes for day-walkers and trail-runners, this initiative lays the groundwork for sustainable eco-tourism in Ladismith. Restored trails will enable local guiding enterprises to flourish, enhance environmental awareness, encourage overnight stays, and generate revenue for continued maintenance.
We eagerly anticipate the full reopening of Ladismith’s treasured mountain paths—a transformation that promises to enrich community wellbeing, bolster small-business growth, and safeguard our natural heritage for generations to come.
Organiser: Ladismith Trails Committee
Project Category: Environmental Awareness
Project Year: 2025
Municipality: Kannaland
Small Grant Awarded: R3 000
