Who is doing or has done the Grand Traverse

2 weeks till I get to start my 2^nd GT

I wonder if I can bag more than 12 khulus this time...

Morning all,

Does anyone know what time the gate at Sentinel opens?

I am heading off to Witsies this weekend to scout the first portion of the GT. I want to use as much daylight as possible and would prefer to head out at dawn.

Also, do you think it is possible to get to the Rat Hole Cave area and back to the car park in a day. I intend on running where possible so hope to move at a reasonable pace, 5-7km/hour.

Rat Hole and back in a day - that is about 50km. Sounds fun

That's what I estimated, I'm concerned it's a stretch too far...

I'm reluctant to carry a tent but have also considered sleeping at Rat Hole. Are there any safety/security issues in doing this?

I am guessing from the fact that you are considering doing this that you are a trail runner? But to evaluate whether or not you can do this - that really depends on you.

Would I be able to do this? Probably not. But I would imagine the likes of Stijn and AndrewP probably could.

Tents reduce your speed and chance of success, but definitely take some form of a bivy along. Rat Hole Cave is more difficult to find than normal caves due to its size (or lack thereof).

I have only been in that escarpment valley once, so I can't really comment on it - but I don't think security is an issue in that valley.

I am a runner, I've done the Mont Aux Sources Challenge 3 times and another event in the Southern Drakensberg twice.

I have Rat Hole pinpointed with a GPS track (not that it means much...) so hopefully finding it won't be an issue.

Thanks, I plan on leaving my car at the car park, staying at Witsieshoek for the weekend.

I have the track Ryno Griesel and Sandes used for their record, should do the trick...

Hello Barefoot Dave

Way to go!

I have arrived at sentinel car park at all sorts of strange hours and have never found it locked. Out of curtesy, I normally leave a piece of paper under the door with my details so the guys know when you will be back and so on.

The first bit up chain ladder can easily be done in the dark (both ways if needed), so I suggest starting off about 4am to maximise your day.

I suggest ditching sleep gear and going light - go until about midday and then turn around. You will then get back a bit after dark. If you do a long day and od not messa bout too much you should be able to walk the whole way. If you run, see if you can go further

Oh and btw, it's 42km to Rat Hole and back via the inland "record route".

Pack light, keep moving and go for it!