Visiting Everton Waterfall in KZN, South Africa

KwaZulu Natal (KZN) is known for its hiking opportunities; from the strenuous multi-day hikes in the Drakensburg to traversing the paths at Oribi Gorge, there’s no shortage of options. However, most hiking opportunities are at least a few hours away from the city centre . If you’re not interested in a long drive, Everton Waterfall is the perfect place for you.

I saw this on a random (and old) article online so Expat Dragon & I and decided to go check it out. We encountered some mishaps so I decided to document our experience and share it with you to enjoy a fuss free trip.

HOW DO I GET TO Everton Waterfall?

We put in “Everton Waterfall” on google maps but unfortunately this location is someone’s house! It’s not possible to access the trail from there.

So do NOT put in Everton waterfall on Google Maps. Rather, type in “Everton Conservancy Molweni River”:

This location takes you to the start of the trail. You will park your vehicle in this vicinity:

Please note that this is not a privately owned area so there is no formal parking lot. If you see this sign, you’re in the right place:

The hiking trail starts from this sign which is quite clear and easy to follow:

Do not deviate from the path unless you want to get lost.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO VISIT Everton Waterfall?

Everton Waterfall is part of public property and as such, there is no entry free to the trail.

It is 100% free to visit.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AT Everton waterfall?

I would classify this as a moderate walk rather than a hike. There’s some gentle inclines but for the most part it’s a flat terrain under shady trees.

If you can climb up a flight of stairs unassisted, you will be able to complete this trail with no problem.

The start of the trail says 3km (round trip) but according to my Apple Watch it was 2.5km round trip. As someone used to longer hikes, I felt that we had just gotten going before we actually reached the waterfall. So this is ideal for beginner hikers or the very unfit!

The waterfall is stunning. We visited in dry season and I can only imagine it’s more impressive when it rains.

It seems that not many people know about it as we arrived there at 2pm on a Friday afternoon (on a long weekend) and we had the place to ourselves.

Don’t miss the opportunity to climb behind the waterfall, for a different perspective!

When it’s time to head back to the start of the trail, remember that it’s not a loop. That means that you must return the way you came. Following any other paths will only lead to dead ends. The path returning to the start of the trail is marked with these red arrows:

Please note that there are no bathrooms, picnic tables, braai facilities, change rooms or places to buy food on the trail. It is however, close to a few shopping centres in the Kloof area.

WHAT TO WEAR WHEN visiting Everton Waterfall?

As the path is relatively smooth, hiking boots or shoes with grip are not needed. Regular trainers are fine or you could even wear sandals.

If you plan on swimming (although the water is shallow), you can wear your swimsuit underneath your clothes and carry a towel.

WHAT ARE THE RATINGS ON the PANDa RATING SCALE? 

LASTLY,

A minimum effort, maximum reward hike is honestly my favourite kind! Add in the fact that it’s free, peaceful as well as close to the city and you have an ideal morning/afternoon out.

Remember to be safe, never hike alone on a public trail, carry as little valuables as possible and clean up after yourself.

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Have you visited Everton Waterfall before? Or have I inspired you to visit? Let me know in the comments below!