Rhebok Hiking Trail - Golden Gate National Park, Free State
Rhebok Hiking Trail - Golden Gate National Park, Free State. © Clarens
Rhebok Hiking Trail - Golden Gate National Park, Free State. (Image adapted). © Fagala Voet
Rhebok Hiking Trail - Golden Gate National Park, Free State. © Hanno Langenhoven
Rhebok Hiking Trail - Golden Gate National Park, Free State. © Hanno Langenhoven
Rhebok Hiking Trail - Golden Gate National Park, Free State. (Image adapted). © Fagala VoetRhebok Hiking Trail - Golden Gate National Park, Free State
The Rhebok Hiking Trail, one of the crown jewels of Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the Free State, offers an immersive journey through some of South Africa’s most dramatic mountain scenery. Winding for roughly 31 kilometres over two days, the trail leads walkers across rolling grasslands, sandstone cliffs, and high plateaus where sweeping panoramas of the Maloti Mountains unfold in every direction. It’s a route that rewards both physical effort and a deep appreciation for the rugged beauty that defines this high-altitude landscape.
Setting out from the park’s Glen Reenen Rest Camp, hikers soon find themselves surrounded by the park’s trademark golden-hued rock formations, sculpted by centuries of wind and weather. The route ascends steadily, passing babbling streams and pockets of indigenous flora, including striking patches of alpine flowers in summer. Wildlife sightings add a sense of quiet thrill, eland, black wildebeest, and mountain reedbuck often graze along the slopes, while bearded vultures and Verreaux’s eagles soar above the ridges.
Overnight accommodation is provided at the Rhebok Hut, a rustic but comfortable base tucked between the foothills. Here, hikers can rest, cook, and enjoy a night under a star-filled sky unburdened by city lights. The second day continues across higher ground, rewarding early risers with misty valleys and crisp mountain air before descending through secluded gorges back towards the camp. The blend of varied terrain ensures the trail feels fresh and engaging throughout the journey.
Known for its challenging elevations and weather that can shift dramatically, the Rhebok Trail is best suited to reasonably fit hikers prepared for steep climbs, rocky paths, and occasional muddy sections. Yet it remains a deeply rewarding adventure, offering an intimate encounter with Golden Gate’s most pristine and lesser-travelled spaces. For nature lovers seeking solitude, scenery, and a taste of the Free State’s wild highlands, it stands as an unforgettable two-day escape.
Main park contact (for bookings & enquiries)
Phone: +27 (0)58 255 1000
Email: see website
Website: https://www.sanparks.org
Accommodation Near Rhebok Hiking Trail - Golden Gate National Park, Free State
The Clarens Country House
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Clarens
18.7km from Rhebok Hiking Trail - Golden Gate National Park, Free StateThe Clarens Country House is nestled in a wooded corner of the secure Clarens Golf and Trout Estate, with wrap-around mountain views. The century-old stone house offers 4 luxury self-catering suites opening onto an enormous fully-glassed veranda... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Rochester
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Clarens
18.9km from Rhebok Hiking Trail - Golden Gate National Park, Free StateRochester is a newly built property situated in the stunning, Clarens Golf and Trout Estate, completed 2nd June 2016. The self-catering unit accommodates up to six guests with unobstructed views overlooking the golf course, fishing lake and Clarens. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
The Savoy
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Clarens
19.1km from Rhebok Hiking Trail - Golden Gate National Park, Free StateThe Savoy offers affordable self catering accommodation in Clarens in the Eastern Free State. This self catering semi-detached chalet can accommodate up to five guests. The chalet has an open plan area, that consists of a King bed, with a single and... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Riverwalk Bed & Breakfast
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Clarens
19.7km from Rhebok Hiking Trail - Golden Gate National Park, Free StateAll rooms open onto a veranda from a private entrance, with luxurious bathrooms. We proud ourselves with the quality of our furnishings and linen and offer a deluxe hospitality tray in each room, which include sherry, homemade rusks and biscuits... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Red Mountain House
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Clarens
19.7km from Rhebok Hiking Trail - Golden Gate National Park, Free StateRed Mountain House is situated in the heart of the beautiful village of Clarens. Our accommodation consists of 6 luxury double rooms furnished with turn of the century antiques and one standard room. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Paddocks Six
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Clarens
19.8km from Rhebok Hiking Trail - Golden Gate National Park, Free StatePaddocks Six is a brand new self catering home (sleeps 6) in a new development. It is situated in the Swartland in Clarens and is a short 10 minute walk to the Clarens town square. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Akzente
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Clarens
19.8km from Rhebok Hiking Trail - Golden Gate National Park, Free StateAkzente is situated in the heart of Clarens, within walking distance of all the galleries, shops and restaurants, but still has a panoramic view of the valley and the mountains of Golden Gate and Lesotho... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
278 on Main
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Clarens
19.9km from Rhebok Hiking Trail - Golden Gate National Park, Free StateWelcome to 278 On Main. Luxury bed and breakfast and self catering accommodation right in the center of the picturesque village of Clarens in the Eastern Free State. Close enough to all Restaurants, Galleries and Shops to be able to park your car and... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Aspen Guest House and Self Catering Cottage
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Clarens
20km from Rhebok Hiking Trail - Golden Gate National Park, Free StateAspen Guest House is located in the idyllic town of Clarens, often referred to as the "Jewel of the Free State". We offer both bed and breakfast and self catering accommodation in Clarens.services we offer and your hostess. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Mount Horeb Manor
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Clarens
20km from Rhebok Hiking Trail - Golden Gate National Park, Free StateMt Horeb Manor, an upmarket Bed and Breakfast provides guests with an unforgettable stay in the charming town of Clarens. The guest house is tastefully decorated to offer each guest a luxurious, exclusive and unforgettable stay topped with warm... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
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