Get lost in the mystic Nelshoogte Forest Reserve… Tucked away just 30 km from Barberton, the Queen Rose Hiking Trails is easily considered as one of the most scenic trails in the region, several trails start at Matumi Bush Camp and leads hikers on an amazing route that traverses over river crossings, pools and wooden bridges, through pine and natural forests. Bird life is in abundance and you have the opportunity to spot one of the 350 plus bird species. Although some degree of fitness is needed to navigate the forest terrain, the tranquillity and sublime relaxation experienced is therapeutic. Your body can do anything, it’s the mind that needs convincing… Feel completely safe at Queen Rose, all our hikers are issued with a two-way radio that is monitored. The beauty of our trails is that anyone can do it, as long as you have a reasonable level of fitness and a pair of sturdy hiking boots. Some of the climbs may leave you a little short of breath but the views from the top will certainly take your breath away! Our hiking trails have it all, the spectacular views, incredible wildlife, entertaining river crossings and perfectly placed natural splash pools and waterfalls. What’s more, anyone can enjoy it from babies in backpacks to senior citizens. Yet the real beauty of the trails is that it enables you to slip away from the stresses of modern-day life and reconnect with nature. If you should experience any medical issues a vehicle will be dispatched to pick you up where possible. If you are unfit and do not feel capable to finish the trail, don’t stress for a small fee we will send a vehicle to collect you. Slack-packing is available on all trails.

Trail runners can utilise all of our hiking trails. A customised trail can be put together for trail runners with or without overnight accommodation as per your own needs. Please see the hiking trails tab for trail options.

Bird life is in abundance and you have the opportunity to spot one of the 350 plus bird species that call this area home. Some birds spotted here are Watertrappers, Intermediate Brown-hooded Kingfisher, Black Cuckoo, Purple-crested Turaco, Pin-tailed Whydah, Common Buzzard, Fish Eagles, Steap Buzzard and Crowned Eagles to name but a few. In fact, Wits University have cameras installed on a Crowned Eagle’s nest located on one of our trails to monitor the breading habits of these majestic birds.