Lion's Head

Moderate

Table Mountain NP

Main risk: slips and falls

At a glance

Distance

5.3 km circuit

Time

2–3 hr

Elevation gain

390 m

Summit

669 m

Child friendlyHas chains

No dogs Parking

Serious bottlenecks at the chain sections can cause waits of 45 minutes or more on busy weekends. Do not attempt to bypass queues — falls in this section are common.

Crime awareness

Muggings have been reported on the lower gravel road section after sunset. Do not hike alone outside busy hours, carry only what you need, and if confronted hand it over without resisting.

Know before you go

One of Cape Town's most popular hikes — start before 07:00 on weekends to avoid chain queues.
Full moon hikes are spectacular but the descent after dark requires a headlamp.
Dogs are not permitted on the TMNP trail.

If you need help

High rate of twisted ankles on the loose gravel descent. Muggings have been reported on the lower gravel road section after sunset — do not hike out after dark. Helicopter hoists have been performed here.

Emergency exit

The spiral route bypasses the chain sections but remains exposed on a narrow ledge. It is a relief route only — it does not reduce the overall commitment of the hike.

Cell reception

Good on most of the route.

Start point

Lion's Head Parking (Signal Hill Road)

Get directions to trailhead

Parking: Roadside parking on Signal Hill Road. Fills by 06:30 on weekends.

Elevation profile

Peak

669 m

Total ascent

390 m

Trail length

5.3 km

Best time of year

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Hikeable year-round. Avoid summer afternoons and busy weekends.

Build your checklist for this trail

Check turn-around time

Tell someone where you are going

Share your plan with a friend or family member before you set off.

Last reviewed July 2026

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