New Drakensberg Maps: the progress so far

I started setting up the new map series in December 2021, and by January it was clear that we needed inputs from present-day Berg users. Both our own 1980s maps and the EKZNW series are hopelessly out of date. A brief circular to all the climbing and hiking organizations that we could identify on the internet led to a stunning reaction; over fifty individuals responded within days, filled with enthusiasm and brimming with ideas. Over thirty of these agreed to continue contributing under an ‘open’ email, and some lively discussions followed.

In the meantime I have continued with the drawing. The absolutely brilliant inputs from Tony Marshall have formed an essential base and I have had no hesitation in appointing him as research coordinator for the project. Many others have also contributed and the list for acknowledgment already has over twenty names.

Karl Beath has generously allowed us to use his photographs for out from covers, and a sample of the cover for the first map adorns our opening blog post. A fantastic contribution, Karl!

So - what have we achieved? Consensus on the different types of path or routes to be shown; safety measures where appropriate on summit passes and other potentially dangerous areas. Symbolisation of many features. The gps standards to be adopted. Many wonderful small and useful details that have not appeared on any other maps.

A part of the proposed map Reference showing path categories, etc.
This is not necessarily the final version. Click on the pic to enlarge.

We are also awaiting inputs from Ezemvelo KZNW. We have agreed to liaise closely with them especially on details that it might be best to omit from the maps. These are, after all, multi-use maps that will be used by the experienced and accomplished climber as much as by the casual day-visitor to the Maloti-Drakensberg Park. Responsible mapping needs to take into account that not every mountain user is necessarily a wise one!