Upper Cableway Station to Maclear's Beacon
A marked summit-plateau walk from the cableway to the highest point on Table Mountain.
Route overview
Cross the Western Table on the marked plateau path to Maclear's Beacon, Table Mountain's highest point.
The route crosses the Western Table from the upper cable station toward Maclear's Beacon. Painted yellow footprints and plaques mark the way, with a short chain-and-pole assisted descent over rocky steps. The terrain is straightforward in good visibility but becomes a serious navigation problem in low cloud.
Trail facts
- Country
- South Africa
- Region
- Table Mountain summit plateau, Cape Town
- Distance
- 5.5 km overall
- Typical duration
- about 45 minutes to 1 hour one way to Maclear's Beacon
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Elevation gain
- Not specified
- Best season
- Clear daylight with stable wind and visibility
- Trail type
- Out and back
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- Check current summit access and SANParks rules.
Safety context
Do not attempt the route in mist or low cloud. Use only the marked chain-assisted descent point, carry water and retain enough time for the return and any cableway disruption. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Disorientation in cloud, strong wind, no water, wrong descent point, exposed plateau and cableway closure.
Highlights
Summit plateau, Maclear's Beacon at 1,088 m, broad city and peninsula views
Why find a buddy
A partner supports navigation confirmation and prevents separation when cloud or wind develops.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.