Salomon Hike Club Newcastle

“Where is Moorfield Mountain Farm?

Moorfield Mountain Farm is a Nature Reserve offering accommodation, camping, retreats and activities in stunning scenery. The property is off Mullers Pass (approximately 35km from Newcastle) and includes a two-hectare ‘island’ formed by the Ncandu River before it runs into the kloof. The river makes almost a complete circle around this island where most of the buildings stand. The surrounding land is mostly hilly grassland, which is ideal for a wide range of wildlife, but it is grazed mostly by cattle and a few waterbuck at the moment. The Ncandu kloof has a waterfall and rock pools that you can swim in, as well as many interesting places and spaces to discover.

Visit the link below for directions:

Directions to Moorfield Mountain Farm

What can I expect on the road to Moorfield?

Driving from Newcastle, you'll exit town on Boundary Road and drive for 18km. Expect some potholes and speed bumps on the tarred road. Turn right onto the dirt road at a small shop and sign saying “Mullers Pass 15”. Drive 15 km on the dirt road to top of pass and look for “Moorfield” signs indicating an entrance to your left. Turn in and go through 2 gates. Park at the Day Visitor area.

While the dirt road is suitable for all vehicles, it is rutted in sections and severe rain can cause it to be muddy and slippery as you head up the pass (mild rain is forecast this week, so the weather is on our side), so make sure to add on 15 minutes to your anticipated travel time. Carpool with your family and/or friends to make the trip a little easier.

What should I wear?

We'll be out in nature and while there is a visible trail for 90% of the route, it is no Parkrun! Expect mud, rough vegetation and everything else that comes along with hiking. Don't wear your best active wear! Rather wear something that you wouldn't mind getting a little dirty. Wear comfortable walking / running / hiking shoes (don't forget about that mud). If you are concerned about scratches on your legs from the vegetation (there are inevitably some hidden brambles between the softer ferns) then wear long or 3/4 tights. Make sure that you have a hat and other sun protection and keep an eye on the weather forecast in case you need to take a jacket along.

There is a beautiful rock pool beneath a waterfall near to the picnic area at Moorfield. If you would like to take a dip after the hike, remember to pack a costume and towel, and don't forget the sunblock.

What time should I arrive?

The hike will start at 7:30am, so please arrive from 7am. There will be a short briefing on the area, facilities and COVID-19 protocol before we start. We'll convene in the Picnic Area once you have signed in at Reception.

COVID-19 Protocol

You will receive an email with a link to a COVID-19 Screening Questionnaire the day before the event. Please fill it out before arrival at Moorfield. Your temperature will be scanned on arrival. Please make use of the hand sanitiser provided. Have an easily accessible face mask or buff handy so that you can wear it at times that we are standing closer together, for example, at the briefing before we start the hike. Once we commence with the hike, it will not be necessary to wear your face mask, as social distancing will be maintained very easily. 

What can I expect from the Hike route?

The route is out and back on the western escarpment of the Ncandu River gorge, towards Ncandu Nature Reserve, which borders Moorfield. We will cover a distance of almost 7km, with a total ascent of 282m. The hike is moderate in difficulty, with the odd branch or tree root that you need to climb over or under. Once we reach the waterfall, there are short sections that involve a mild clamber, so bring your sense of adventure. We'll follow the same route back and you can expect the hike to take approximately 3 hours.

Refreshments

You will carry your own hiking refreshments, so make sure that you have at least 1l of water / electrolyte drink and something to snack on when we stop for a rest at the waterfall. Carry a backpack or hydration vest, or share a pack with your bestie.

Bring a chair / picnic blanket and picnic basket along to enjoy after the hike.

Cell Phone Reception

There is no cell phone reception at Moorfield itself, but you will have intermittent coverage at various areas along the hike route. Should you encounter any difficulties along the way to Moorfield, please contact the Moorfield office on 0823283819 if you are unable to contact me directly.

That covers all the basics, but if there is anything else that you would like to know, please feel free to reply to this email or WhatsApp me on 0824490093. We are looking forward to spending the morning with you!”