Lion's Head hike

Lion's Head is Cape Town's most popular sunrise and sunset hike: a spiral path around the peak with a short chain-and-ladder scramble near the summit (there's a bypass path for hikers who'd rather skip it). The trail starts on Signal Hill Road off Kloof Nek — street parking is very limited, especially at sunset and on full-moon nights. There is no SANParks pay gate at this trailhead, but dogs need a SANParks My Activity permit on routes where dogs are allowed in Table Mountain National Park. Extremely busy on full moon nights. Contact the reserve for current trail conditions, or enquire below.

Before you go, read Lion's Head hike guide.

Other listings in Table Mountain: Cape Fold Adventure Co , India Venster , Pipe Track , Platteklip Gorge .

Questions

How hard is Lion's Head?

Lion's Head is graded moderate and typically takes about 2.5 hours over 5.5 km. Difficulty grades are set by the reserve or operator, not a national standard — read the safety note on the listing before you go.

Are dogs allowed at Lion's Head?

Dogs are allowed at Lion's Head. Check the listing for leash or permit rules — some reserves need a SANParks My Activity permit or restrict dogs to one section.

Where do you park for Lion's Head?

Street parking on Signal Hill Road, very limited at sunset.

What is the Lion's Head hike trail?

The Lion's Head hike trail is a 5.5km spiral around the peak, about 2.5 hours, graded moderate. SANParks describes a short chain-and-ladder scramble near the summit; a bypass skips it. It does not reach the Table Mountain plateau.

Where is Lion's Head hike parking?

Street parking on Signal Hill Road, very limited at sunset. The trailhead is on Signal Hill Road off Kloof Nek. There is no SANParks pay gate at this trailhead.

Where is the Lion's Head hike starting point?

Signal Hill Road off Kloof Nek, Table Mountain National Park. Street parking is very limited at sunset.