We call it Lion’s Head, because when looking at the peak, Signal Hill depicts the lion’s rump and the peak looks like the head of a lion with a mane. During the 17th century, the English called it Sugar Loaf Hill.
It is no wonder that everyone wants to climb this iconic peak. After all, the Lion’s Head trail rewards you with a 360° view over the city bowl and Atlantic Seaboard.
The trail starts on a very steep jeep track and ends with some scrambling to the top. During the circular, spiral hike to the top, you can marvel at the scenery from the Twelve Apostles, views over Camp’s Bay and the Atlantic Seaboard, Sea-point, the City Bowl, Table Bay, and Table Mountain.
Lion’s Head is the regular fitness trail for many locals. Furthermore, hundreds of people hike up during the full moon to watch the sunset in the Atlantic. A few minutes after sunset, the moon rises on the other side of the peak, over the Winelands. Just look up at the peak at night and look for the trail of lights coming down.
If you want to climb this popular peak but also want to escape from the masses, this alternative trail is for you.
Duration
For the regular route, you can estimate +/-4 hours for a round trip including enough stops and a good rest on top. If we take the alternative route, it can take longer. Although Lion’s Head is much lower than Table Mountain, at only 669 m, it is very steep. You do need to be reasonably fit to hike this trail, as the elevation gain is 367 m.
1 Person – R2 400
2-4 Persons – R1 500 pp
5+ Persons – R1 400 pp