St James Peak

Moderate

Silvermine

At a glance

Distance

6 km return

Time

2.5–3 hr

Elevation gain

300 m

Summit

422 m

Good to hike now

Dogs allowed Parking

Weather changes rapidly on this section of mountain — cloud and wind can appear without warning. The summit is exposed. Trail is not well-marked in places; download offline maps.

Know before you go

Spectacular sunrise views over Kalk Bay, Muizenberg, and False Bay.
30–40% gradient for 1 km via Mimetes Valley — short but demanding.
Often combined with Muizenberg Peak for a longer traverse along Boyes Drive.
Download the route offline — multiple paths split near the top.

If you need help

Popular with local runners and hikers but the exposed summit and loose rocky descent catch out unprepared hikers. Carry enough water — no sources on route.

Emergency exit

Descend via Bailey's Kloof back to Boyes Drive. The contour path also connects to Muizenberg Peak if needed.

Cell reception

Patchy. Some signal on the contour path.

Start point

Ou Kraal on Boyes Drive, Kalk Bay (or Pecks Valley entrance, Lakeside)

Get directions to trailhead

Parking: Roadside on Boyes Drive at Ou Kraal. Free.

Elevation profile

Peak

422 m

Total ascent

300 m

Trail length

6 km

Best time of year

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Year-round. Sunrise hikes are spectacular in summer.

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 May 2026

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