Elephant's Eye Cave Trail
EasySilvermine
Main risk: crimeAt a glance
Distance
6 km return
Time
2–2.5 hr
Elevation gain
300 m
Summit
623 m
No cell signal anywhere in the reserve. Communicate your plans and meeting points with your group before entering the gate — you cannot call or message once inside.
Crime awareness
Security incidents have occurred on this trail. Reserve signage advises hiking in a group of four or more — do not hike here solo.
Know before you go
- The cave sits exactly where the eye would be on the mountain's elephant-head profile.
- Most of the trail follows a wide jeep track — final 500m is a steeper zigzag.
- Silvermine Dam is a popular swim spot on the way back.
- Bring cash for the gate fee — no card payment at the gate.
If you need help
Security incidents have occurred on the trail. Reserve safety signage advises hiking in a group of four or more. Do not hike solo here. Silvermine was burnt in the major April 2025 wildfire — most paths and facilities reopened by late 2025, but check SANParks for any lingering closures.
Emergency exit
Return the way you came. The reserve dam and parking area are the only exits. Emergency number on reserve signage: SANParks 086 110 6417.
Cell reception
No signal. Silvermine has no cell coverage on trail or at the dam.
Start point
Silvermine Nature Reserve Gate 1, off Ou Kaapse Weg (cash only — no card facilities)
Parking: Silvermine Gate 1 parking. Cash only. Gate closes at 18:00.
Elevation profile
Peak
623 m
Total ascent
300 m
Trail length
6 km
Best time of year
Fynbos peaks August–October. Avoid summer noon — no shade.
Water sources
Treat or filter before drinking — never trust a stream raw.
Silvermine Dam
Year-round
On the return route. Not treated drinking water.
Tell someone where you are going
Share your plan with a friend or family member before you set off.
Last reviewed May 2026
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