Long Tom Pass

Long Tom Pass climbs some 680 metres from about 1,456 to around 2,150 metres, making it one of the highest tarred passes in the country, on the road between Lydenburg and Sabie. The name comes from the Long Tom siege guns used along this route at the end of the nineteenth century, and a replica gun stands at a viewpoint near the summit with an explanatory plaque. The older wagon route it replaced included a section so steep it was called Die Staircase, where wagons were lowered on ropes and brakes made of tree trunks - the remains of that track are still traceable beside the modern road. From the top the escarpment falls away east towards the Lowveld, with views over the plantations around Sabie. It is high enough for snow in winter, mist is frequent, and the road carries heavy timber traffic.

What's there

• The 2,150-metre summit - one of the highest tarred passes in the country.
• The gun replica - a Long Tom at the viewpoint, with the naming explained.
• Die Staircase - the old wagon track where loads were lowered by rope, still traceable.
• The escarpment view - the drop east towards the Lowveld from the top.

When to go

April to September. One hour with stops. Snow and mist both occur in winter.

What to expect

It is a working freight route with heavy timber trucks and limited safe stopping. Mist closes the views often. Snow can make it dangerous in winter. The historical interpretation at the viewpoint is thin.

Nearby

Sabie and its waterfalls are east; Lydenburg is west.

Key facts