This is one of the most satisfying and challenging single day hikes up a standalone Drakensberg peak – it ranks alongside Cathedral Peak which is also about 10,000 ft high and 5,000ft elevation gain. It departs from Monks Cowl Forestry Station. The first part is climbing up the “little Berg” – a 1700 ft climb to a stream where you can have breakfast. The middle part is a 2 mile trek across the top of the little Berg to the base of Sterkhorn Mountain- which looks like a giant pyramid with a double top. Then you climb 2,650 ft up Sterkhorn in about 2 miles. It’s very steep and there is some considerable exposure to drop offs (you do need a head for heights) although nothing that requires the use of ropes or climbing equipment. Hiking is possible in the Drakensberg all year around. Care should be taken to check forecasts in the winter as severe weather can set in. In the summer the primary danger is lightning- hikes are best done early in the morning as clouds will often gather by 11:30am on the high peaks. Taking a local guide is recommended. They are available through local tourist information centers It is not advised to hike alone. The weather can be unpredictable, the path is seldom used, and getting lost on the mountainside would expose you to cliffs and steep drop-offs.