Silvermine River and Steenberg Ridge
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This route traces the Upper Silvermine River from the main gate, leaves the river trail to ascend Steenberg Ridge, and completes the loop back down to the dam, for an optional dip before heading back down along the river.
Start — This out-and-back hike begins at the Upper Silvermine parking area (Gate 1) just to the left of the pay point. The trail follows the Silvermine River upstream parallel to Steenberg Ridge.
River & Ridge Section — Continue along the river until reaching a cycle crossroad. Turn right, cross Silvermine Reservoir Road, and pass through a small parking area before climbing gently toward Steenberg Ridge. The trail then runs along the ridge with Silvermine Dam visible on the left.
Return — At the end of the ridge, turn back toward Silvermine Dam and return along the river, retracing your route back to the car park.
Important Note — Silvermine entry is cash only, and there is no mobile phone reception in the area.
📍 Meeting Point — Lower car park just after entry to Upper Silvermine Gate 1. Turn left immediately after passing through the pay point.
📌 Meeting Spot — Google Maps
⏱️ Hiking Time — 3hrs
📏 Distance — 7.7km
⛰️ Elevation — 276m
🟡 Grade — Moderate
🐾🐾 — Dog friendly (activity permit required)
Route Notes — An easy-to-follow route on a generally good path, though sections can be stony underfoot. Suitable for most hikers with a moderate level of fitness.
The Silvermine River and Wetlands
The Silvermine River and wetlands form one of the few largely intact river systems running from mountain source to sea within an urban area.
Once heavily canalised in its lower reaches, the river has been rehabilitated into a naturalised wetland system, replacing concrete channels with open water, ponds, and reed beds that function both ecologically and for flood control.
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| Silvermine Wetlands - view down river |
Today, the wetlands support a rich diversity of indigenous plants and animals, including the endangered western leopard toad (Amietophrynus pantherinus), arum lily frog (Hyperolius horstockii), Cape river frog (Amietia fuscigula) and the clicking stream frog (Strongylopus grayii), making it a rare and valuable natural corridor within the city.
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| Silvermine Wetlands - View Up River |
Its ongoing health is supported by active community involvement, with local volunteers helping to protect the river and wetlands. This connection is celebrated each year through the Source to Sea Fundraising Walk organized by the Friends of Silvermine Nature Area (FOSNA)
The walk follows the river from its mountain source to the inland dunes and wetlands near the sea, raising awareness and funds for continued conservation work.
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| The Source to Sea Walk passes through the inland dunes of Clovelly |
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