Rietfontein Nature Reserve — Attraction in Johannesburg Ward 106

Edit 27th August. Added photos of Helichrysum Cerastioides (Everlasting Flower) a small plant with a mass of tiny white flowers, clearly visible only, close to the hiking track, on the Sandton side, near the clear view of Sandton.

Edit early August 24. The Reserve is extremely dry and dusty. Virtually nothing is green. However we've been several times over the past week for 2 and 3 lap hikes and we've seen several buck on each occasion, typically near the artificial pond. See pic of friendly duiker below. The only plant in flower appears to be an allow. See pic.

A caring member of the public has screwed close to 40 small, laser-etched motivational plaques to the low posts that used to show the Latin and English names of shrubs and trees. They make an interesting read and liven up the hike under these very dry conditions. I've photographed just a few and posted below. Still a great place to visit, but again, remember to wear decent trail shoes as parts of the trail are very rough going! On a clear day there is a terrific view of Sandton from the high-point.

Original Post. Great place for a mini-hike in the Northern Suburbs! It's a circular 2km walking route that takes around 30 minutes at a moderate pace.

Parts of the trail are extremely rough underfoot and there is a reasonable climb to the viewing point. So decent quality trail shoes or hiking boots are strongly recommended. Absolutely no flip-flops! The trail walk is not suitable for unfit or infirm people.

There is a grassed family area where one can have a picnic just inside the entrance, that does not require more than a few metres walking from the parking.

Edit: decent toilet facilities are now available at the education Centre. Edit: Baboons' Ears in flower mid-October...

Green spaces like nature reserves and preserves are important in urban areas, not only for the way they preserve indigenous landscapes and their primal beauty but also as 'green lungs'. Fortunately for us in Fourways and surrounds, they also act as breaks from the continuity of estates and complexes that stretch into every direction. This is clearly visible from the top of the ridge that is the nature reserve. The hiking trail is well maintained and clearly marked, winding and looping is way up and down the ridge. It also has a park area with picnic tables and small venue compound which I'll assume can be rented out for functions. The trail is popular with runners, hikers, families and small groups wanting a quick...

Lovely winter's sunny morning walkabout at Rietfontein Nature Reserve. Very manageable, well marked one hour 2 km circular route at a slow pace. Wear closed shoes or hiking boots. Panoramic views of Jozi from the highest point. We spotted a crested barbet, love birds, hunting rock pigeon, black collared barbet, bulbul, mousebirds and weavers. Inspiring signs along the way. Large aloe ferox in bloom, agave plants and lots of indigenous trees. Table and chairs to picnic. Felt very safe and secure. Great way to get your heart pumping on a Saturday morning! Free entrance....