Lion's Head

Lion's Head is a 669 m peak rising between Table Mountain and Signal Hill above Sea Point and Camps Bay in Cape Town, South Africa's Western Cape, and it is one of the city's most popular hikes. The trailhead sits on Signal Hill Road near the Kloof Nek saddle, and a clear path spirals anticlockwise around the mountain, climbing steadily through fynbos with views that widen at each turn. The hike takes roughly one to one and a half hours up and about an hour down, so two to three hours return is a sensible allowance. Near the summit, the path becomes a scramble with chains and metal ladders that require using hands, and a short section can be bypassed on a longer route for those uncomfortable with exposure. At the top, a 360-degree panorama opens over the city bowl, Table Bay and Robben Island, the Twelve Apostles and Camps Bay, the Atlantic coastline and Table Mountain itself. The best photo angles are from the western face looking down at Camps Bay and from the summit at sunrise, when the city lights fade and the mountain glows. Sunrise and full-moon hikes are very popular, and the trail can be crowded at these times, with a queue forming at the ladders. Late afternoon hikes are also popular for sunset, but hikers must plan to be off the mountain before dark and carry a torch. Weather changes quickly, with strong wind or cloud making the rock slippery and views disappointing, so clear days are best. Hikers should carry water, sun protection and warm layers, wear shoes with good grip and avoid hiking alone. Reports of theft have occurred on Cape Town trails, so valuables should be left behind.