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Queen Rose Hiking Trail - Queens River Section (8.5kms)
The route follows the Queens River Valley upstream for 8km. After a short downhill the path crosses the Queens River. After skirting the local cultural settlement, it cuts back to the river which is crossed on a log bridge, then proceeds for about 2 km on the left bank passing Matumi Island and a view of the Crowned Eagles nest. Cross over the low-level bridge and proceed through the riverine Matumi forest on the right bank, climbing gradually for about an hour when you arrive at GPS bridge. The picnic area on the far side is a good spot for lunch and a short walk downstream will bring you to a pool and a Foefie Slide which you may try at your own risk!
Above the picnic spot the trail joins the road for about 1km, then goes left up a small ladder to a beautiful stream where you may drink fresh water at the waterfall just before the ladder. A little further on is LEAP crossing with a suspension bridge. The next uphill takes you to a spectacular view of the Cupid Falls, where the Queens River falls in a series of cascades weathering away the granite base rock. The path angles around and crosses the river in midfall by means of a suspension bridge. You are now about 30 minutes from Queensview Hut, so this is a good stopping place for a cool dip in the pool above the bridge. The trail continues through the forest up to the road and goes left following a side stream up to a gate where you go right and up to Queensview Hut.
The hut is the start of the Queens River section of the trail. It is located close to the river and is fitted with 10 double bunks, mattresses, electricity, flushing toilets with hot and cold showers. There is also a large veranda and a braai area with wood supplied. The hut is located in an attractive indigenous bush environment. There is also a natural swimming pool in the Queens River about 200m away.
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