Yellowwood tree at Forest Dam Traditional Cache

Forest dam is a beautiful little dam at the edge of the Mondi forests between Hilton and Cedara. This is a lovely calm spot for a picnic and one may cool down in the dam on a hot day.

Most of the Mondi forests consist of pine and wattle plantations. However next to this dam a few Henkel's Yellowwood trees (Podocarpus Henkelii) are growing. Henkel's yellowwood is found in South Africa, in the KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape provinces. Here it grows in the high, moist, afro-montane forest of the Drakensberg mountains. In addition it is now found in gardens throughout South Africa, where it is grown as an elegant ornamental tree. It is a protected tree in South Africa. Although it is the real yellowwood tree (Podocarpus latifolius) that is officially South Africa's national tree, the yellowwoods as a group – including Henkel's yellowwood – are felt to hold that position in practise.

Reaching the dam is possible in a vehicle with medium clearance although the best way is on bike or foot. There are lovely trails for running and riding in these forests. The dam is great for a water break or picnic. 

See attached waypoints which shows the best route for a vehicle with medium clearance. With high clearance there are many other options with many forest trails. Parking spots are also indicated if you which to cycle or run.