Pinnacle Cave 1
Location:
Cobham Wilderness Area, lower southern Drakensberg. These two substantial overhangs are situated in the ridge above and behind Pinnacle Rock, but they have not been frequented by hikers so there are no paths to them. They can be accessed from the Pinnacle Rock side by choosing a route that offers the shallowest ascent. Alternatively, the caves can be approached from the Emerald Stream valley behind the ridge (as seen from Pinnacle Rock). Whichever option is chosen, water must be collected at the last reliable stream crossing before heading up to them. Accessing either cave involves a minor clamber, with the clamber for Cave 1 being some distance away, and the clamber for Cave 2 being immediately below it. The upper reaches of the hillside below both caves are quite steep and require careful negotiation when moving between the terraces.
GPS Coordinates: WGS 84
Cave 1: S29 39.292 E29 22.557 at 2162 metres (Landlubbers)
Cave 2: S29 39.263 E29 22.518 at 2156 metres (Landlubbers)
Description:
As viewed from Pinnacle Rock, the left-hand cave (Cave 1) can easily accommodate 12 people, with 6 on each of two level platforms which are separated by a clump of large rocks. The right-hand cave (Cave 2) can accommodate 6 people comfortably, with at least 4 fitting in a very sheltered area at the back of the overhang, just beyond some drips. This area is accessed via a narrow passageway between the rocks that separate it from the front of the cave.
Comfort: 5/5
Both caves offer relatively level sleeping areas that are located under large overhangs.
Water: 1/5
There is no running water at either cave. This must be collected en route from one of the streams in the area, Emerald Stream being the most reliable. As a result, the caves are probably unsuitable for winter use.
Pools: 0/5
No nearby streams means no pools nearby either!
Shelter: 4/5
The caves are formed by deep overhangs which provide good shelter from the rain. However, their location near the top of a substantial ridge overlooking a large plateau means they are exposed to the wind. The recessed area in Cave 2 offers the most protection, but the wind can still make its way in via the narrow tunnel along the back wall.
Outlook: 4/5
The view out over the Pinnacle Rock plateau towards Ndlovini Mountain and the Gxalingenwa River valley from both caves is spectacular – it is just not towards the escarpment!
Overall Rating: 14/25
History:
Both caves are clearly visible from Pinnacle Rock. However, for hikers who have another goal in mind, they have been bypassed by most until recently (circa 2023).