Johannesburg might be known for its skyline, city lights, bustling energy, and fast-paced lifestyle, but hidden between its suburbs are some of Gauteng’s most beautiful green escapes. Beyond the highways and business districts, the city unfolds into ridges, dams, waterfalls and nature reserves that are alive with birds, wildlife, and panoramic views.
These trails reveal a softer side of the city. One defined by open skies, rocky koppies, and quiet walking paths that weave through untouched stretches of grassland. They’re perfect for anyone craving a breather from city life without driving for hours.
From short morning walks ideal for families to full-day adventures through wild reserves, Johannesburg’s hiking scene offers something for every level of fitness and curiosity. Whether you’re looking to break a sweat, photograph wildlife, or just enjoy a peaceful picnic in nature, you’ll find a trail that fits your mood and schedule.
Here’s your guide to some of the best hiking trails in and around Johannesburg, covering everything from well-known favourites to hidden gems worth discovering.
Why Go Hiking in Johannesburg?
Hiking in Johannesburg is one of the easiest ways to reconnect with nature without leaving Gauteng. Many trails are within 30 minutes of the city centre, offering:
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A break from the city’s pace
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Birdlife and wildlife encounters
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Safe, scenic environments for walking or running
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Great picnic or photo opportunities
Johannesburg’s highveld climate also makes hiking possible year-round — just remember sunscreen and water in summer.
1. Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve hiking trails
Location: Kibler Park, South of Johannesburg
Distance: Up to 12 km (network of trails)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Entrance Fee: Free
Known as “the Jewel of the South,” Klipriviersberg is one of the most accessible and rewarding hiking areas in the city. It covers over 700 hectares of open veld and ridges, with routes ranging from short 3 km walks to longer 10–12 km loops.
You’re likely to spot zebra, black wildebeest, and springbok along the way, and the reserve has designated picnic areas for post-hike relaxation. The terrain includes a mix of grassland and rocky slopes with scenic views toward Johannesburg.
Tip: The southern entrance (Peglarae Trail) tends to be quieter on weekends.
2. Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden
Location: Malcolm Road, Roodepoort
Distance: 3.5 km main trail
Difficulty: Easy
Entrance Fee: ±R80 adults
A must-visit for locals and tourists alike, this garden is home to the famous Witpoortjie Waterfall, framed by red cliffs and a nesting pair of Verreaux’s eagles. The main hiking trail winds through landscaped gardens and up to viewpoints overlooking the falls.
It’s less of a wilderness hike and more of a scenic stroll, ideal for families or visitors wanting an easy, beautiful route.
Facilities: On-site café (which was closed on the Sunday we went), gift shop, clean bathrooms, and shaded picnic lawns.
3. Modderfontein Nature Reserve hiking trails
Location: Modderfontein, East Johannesburg
Distance: 3 km to 10 km loops
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Entrance Fee: ±R50
This 275-hectare reserve offers a safe and relaxed environment for walking, trail running, or mountain biking. Expect calm lakes, green hills, and gravel paths lined with acacia trees and is often highly rates as one of the best hinking trails johannesburg has to offer amongst seasoned hikers.
It’s a great choice for beginner hikers or anyone looking for a quiet nature escape without leaving the suburbs. The Fish Eagle Dam is a popular picnic spot, and the Fourways Farmers Market occasionally hosts events here.
Insider Tip: The reserve opens early, perfect for sunrise walks.
4. Golden Harvest Park
Location: North Riding, Randburg
Distance: ±3–5 km network of trails
Difficulty: Easy
Entrance Fee: Free
Golden Harvest Park is one of northern Johannesburg’s most peaceful outdoor areas, yet few people outside the local community know about it. The park covers over 55 hectares of rolling grassland, acacia trees, and a central dam, with several interlinked walking and jogging paths.
While not a “wilderness” hike like Suikerbosrand or Hennops, it’s perfect for a relaxed morning walk, family outing, or dog-friendly stroll. You’ll often see locals fishing at the dam or enjoying picnics under the trees.
Highlights:
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Ideal for casual walkers and families
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Plenty of birdlife and open grassy areas
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Safe parking and easy access from the N1
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Dog-friendly (on leash)
Tip: Go early in the morning for the best light and a quieter experience.
5. Melville Koppies Nature Reserve
Location: Between Melville and Emmarentia
Distance: ±5 km (guided and unguided routes)
Difficulty: Moderate
Entrance Fee: Small donation
Melville Koppies offers one of the best city-view hikes in Johannesburg. The terrain is rocky and natural, with fynbos-covered slopes and archaeological remains dating back to the Iron Age.
You can hike the eastern section on your own or join a guided tour on Sundays for added safety and local insight.
What Makes It Special: It’s one of the few places where you can hike within the Johannesburg skyline and still feel surrounded by nature.
6. Cradle Moon Lakeside Game Lodge
Location: Muldersdrift (40 minutes from Joburg)
Distance: 5–10 km trails
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Entrance Fee: ±R100 day visitor
Inside a private game reserve, Cradle Moon combines safe, scenic trails with light wildlife encounters. Expect to see giraffe, zebra, and various antelope as you circle the lake or climb gentle hills. this is easily our favourite hiking trail johannesburg has to offer.
There’s also a restaurant and bar on-site, making it one of the most enjoyable day-trip destinations near the city.
Bonus: Trail permits include access to the dam for swimming and kayaking.
7. Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve
Location: Heidelberg, 45 minutes from Johannesburg
Distance: 4 km to 17 km routes
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Entrance Fee: ±R40 adults
A true wilderness escape within Gauteng, Suikerbosrand spans over 11,000 hectares of rolling hills and valleys. The reserve’s longer trails can take up to six hours to complete, making it a great option for more experienced hikers or those training for big mountain treks.
Wildlife sightings include zebra, eland, red hartebeest, and an impressive variety of bird species.
Tip: There’s little shade, so take a hat and lots of water.
8. Hennops Hiking Trail
Location: Near Hartbeespoort, about 50 minutes from Johannesburg
Distance: 5 km to 11 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Entrance Fee: ±R100
Technically outside the city, but too good to leave off the list. Hennops offers suspension bridges, river crossings, and dramatic rocky ridges overlooking the valley. It’s one of Gauteng’s most popular trails and includes picnic areas and braai facilities.
Note: It’s a bit more rugged than most city trails, so wear good shoes and arrive early to beat the crowds.
Would I Recommend It?
It’s one of Joburg’s best open-air markets, I’m surprised it wasnt busier, but also kind of hopeful it continues to fly under the radar.
Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known Trails
If you’ve ticked off the main spots, try these for something quieter:
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Gillooly’s Farm – short lakeside walks and picnic lawns in Bedfordview.
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The Wilds Nature Reserve – urban forest trails with sculptures and city views.
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Delta Park – popular for short nature walks and birdwatching, just found it to short to add it to Hiking trails in johannesburg.
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Lonehill Koppie – short climb with panoramic suburb views.
- Marks Park/Emarentia Lake/Johannesburg Botanical Gardens(same place) – Great for an hour long stroll, lots of little details, and great for dogs.
Safety Tips for Hiking in Johannesburg
Johannesburg’s trails are mostly safe, but a few precautions go a long way:
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Hike with at least one other person (also more fun in groups)
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Avoid isolated sections late in the afternoon.
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Keep valuables out of sight or leave them at home.
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Carry a fully charged phone.
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Stick to designated trails and obey gate hours.
Best Time to Go Hiking
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Summer (Oct–Mar): Lush greenery, afternoon thunderstorms. Start early.
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Winter (Apr–Sep): Crisp mornings, dry conditions, great visibility.
What to Pack
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Comfortable walking shoes or trail sneakers
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Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses
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At least 1L of water per person (when hiking with children or doing 10-kilometers or more)
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Light snacks or energy bars
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Camera or smartphone for photos
Final Thoughts
Hiking in Johannesburg proves you don’t have to leave the province for incredible scenery. The variety of reserves and trails means there’s something for every level of hiker, from a gentle family walk in Modderfontein to a full-day trek across Suikerbosrand’s mountains.
These trails are living proof that Gauteng isn’t just about city life; it’s a region full of hidden wilderness waiting to be explored.