On Sunday 30 people, under the guidance of Sappi’s Duncan Ballantyne and Collin Croudace went on an outing to the notorious chute on the old wagon trail to Barberton. The recce trip was done to rediscover the old route and this lead to a discussion on its modern possibilities.Driving along the forestry roads it was evident in several places that the top soil where the route went down the mountain was washed away exposing the sandstone and quartzite layers. This made it easy to follow and was pointed out at several places. However, the soft grass carpets and indigenous forest that now covers what was known as the dreaded chute, a section of some hundred meters, belies the danger that travelers had to contend with during the nearly 12 years that the wagon trail was in use.In the 1880’s it was not easy to reach Barberton from Natal by ox wagon and coach. It took several days from Ladysmith through Lake Chrissie to Badplaas.

Then travelers had to cross Nelshoogte, and face the worst obstacles, The Chute and The Slide before entering the Barberton valley. Several history books on the area relate tragic tales of hardship at both these places. It was very steep and dangerously slippery when wet due to the clay soil and gradient of the mountain. Here, many wagons and coaches have careened out of control down the steep hill and trek animals lost their lives.

The five mile journey could take weary travelers up to a day to traverse and even longer if a wagon broke down. Luckily there were hotels at the beginning and end of this stretch where ample gin could strengthen the nerves and patience.  As time went by, and access into the valley changed, this route went out of use and nearly disappeared into the annals of history. However, four years ago, Marjorie Nuns from the Barberton Bird Club managed to organise a trip for the club to the chute.

“When Duncan Ballantyne of Sappi gave a talk to the bird club a year ago we approached him about a further visit to the chute. Having grown up in Barberton he was very interested in Barberton's history and most obliging. In conjunction with Colin today's recce trip was organised to rediscover the famous old wagon route and come up with ideas of future possibilities,” said Marjorie.

Ideas, such as developing this part of the wagon trail as a hiking trail combined with mountain biking and guided tours were discussed. It was concluded that this area could provide attractions for visitors and locals.

“Sappi was a wonderful hosts and went to a great deal of trouble to open the route, guide the group and provide literature on this part of the wagon trail,” Marjorie concluded.

The indigenous forest belies the difficulty of the “dreaded chute‿ on the old wagon trail where the group of visitors ascended the steep hillside that is strewn with rocks and a river to the right