Article from the January 2015 issue of Ride Magazine.
As you read this, we hope you are kicking back, feet up, with a cold drink, dreaming of your next ride. Which could be one of the 25 bucket-listers we have brought you this issue.
Jacques Marais is a legendary photographer, journalist and mountain biker, and we have partnered with him on this little project by dipping into his two bestseller volumes. 100 Top MTB Trails has been around for a few years now, and was very Cape-centric (which is where the uber-riding is, we say without a hint of bias), so we welcomed with open arms the follow-up, cunningly called More Top MTB Trails when it was launched a few months ago. We haven’t replicated exactly what is in these bikey bibles; there isn’t room for that and we want you to buy the books anyway, but hopefully the brief peek here will give you enough info to plan tomorrow’s grand adventure.
Obviously, choosing just 25 out of the 200 Jacques lists means we will have had to skip some must-do options – again, buy the book(s) (drop a subtle late-Christmas gift hint if you must, Mapstudio has a great Ride reader special-offer on page 30). That doesn’t mean they were not worthy, but it could well mean you can expect a full trail review in an upcoming issue of Ride. For now, ride here:
Mpumalanga
Mankele
Lekker lowveld riding, Mankele is one of the legendary MTB destinations in South Africa. And for good reason. The riding is superbly varied – from super-technical to beginner-friendly open-road riding – so there is a challenge for everyone. There is even a nationals-level DH run, for the gravity gurus. Xmas Enduro, anyone?
Entry requirements:
Entry fee per bike; open seven days a week
Facilities:
Coffee shop, swimming pool, ablutions, camp site and log cabins
Beware of:
Snakes, ticks, speeding gravity riders, sunburn
More information:
Mankele hosts events such as the Isuzu 3 Towers, Mankele Avalanche and XC & Downhill Nationals
How to get there
Leave the N4 at the Sudwala Caves (Sabie) off-ramp and travel 6km 5 towards Sabie on the R539. The entry to Mankele will be on your right.
Trail info
Grading: Easy to Extreme
Duration: Various; 45 minutes to 8 hours
Configuration: Interlinked trail network
Start Point: Trail Centre Kiosk
Coordinates: S25°23’20.1″; E30°42’43.4″
Terrain: Dirt roads and jeep tracks, singletrack, drop-offs, switchbacks, wooden bridges and berms
Map: Available at reception and on website
Cell Reception: Yes
Misty Valley
Arguably the most beautiful MTB destination we have chosen, Misty Valley is mostly flat (mostly) but makes up for the lack of hairy downhills with a network of switchback trails, bridges and boardwalks for a seriously fun, whoopy day out. And they have some reasonably decent bikes for hire too.
Entry requirements:
Day permits available from resort reception
Facilities:
All accommodation and basic needs catered for at resort
Beware of:
Summer thunderstorms; boardwalk sections slippery when wet
How to get there
Follow the N4 from elVlahahleni (Witbank) to eMakhazeni (Belfast), then turn right at eNtokozweni (Machadodorp). From here, follow the Badplaas Road (R541) for 13km, then turn left onto Slaaihoek Road and continue for a further 12km till you see the Misty Valley Lodge entrance.
Trail info
Grading: Easy to Extreme
Duration: 30 minutes to 3.5 hours
Configuration: Nearly a dozen trails; circular and return options
Start point: Misty Valley Lodge
Coordinates: S25°45’14.5″; E30°26’08.3″
Terrain: Gravel roads, dual track, purpose- built singletrack, wooden bridges
Map: Good, but trails are well-marked
Cell reception: Along most of the route
Sabie
Pine plantations offer sublime riding – cool logging roads, and soft, loamy singletrack that is fun for beginners and experienced riders alike. There is a wide range of options in the Sabie area, from short XCO leg-burners, to long all-day explores, with waterfalls and more to hunt in the summer heat.
Entry requirements:
Permits required, from Merry Pebbles Resort
Facilities:
Self-catering accommodation and ablutions at Merry Pebbles Resort
Beware of:
It gets dark early in the forest, so don’t leave late in the afternoon
More information:
Contact Merry Pebbles for more information
How to get there:
Take the N4 to Mbombela where you turn onto the R537 going north to Sabie. At Sabie, follow the signs to the Merry Pebbles Resort and Castle Rock Campsite.
Trail info
Grading: Easy to Extreme
Duration: 1-5 hours
Configuration: A network of return or loop options
Start point: Merry Pebbles Resort
Coordinates: S25°05’44.4″; E30°45’58.7″
Terrain: Roads and jeep tracks, singletrack, forestry roads
Map: Available from Merry Pebbles Resort
Cell Reception: Intermittent
Gauteng
The Spruit
So you missed the holiday boat, and are stuck in the City of Gold for the hols. No problem. That just means the Spruit will be quieter and more fun, with fewer head-on interactions, and perfect conditions for Strava madness.
Entry requirements:
Public access between 6am and 6pm
Facilities:
Top facilities at Emmarentia Dam for the outdoor crowd; also entry here to Johannesburg Botanical Gardens
Beware of:
Muggings and traffic are a problem; also potential flash floods in summer – take care!
How to get there
This is one of Johannesburg’s most prominent green belts, starting on Melville Koppies in the south and ending in Paulshof in the north.
Trail info
Grading: Easy to Intermediate
Duration: Various options, up to 50km and more
Configuration: Return/there-and-back
Start point: Various safe starting points, including Emmarentia Dam and Delta Park Environmental Centre
Coordinates: S26°09’01.0″; E28°00’21.0″
Terrain: Singletrack footpaths
Cell Reception: Full reception
Thaba Trails
There is an option for everyone here, and the routes should be quiet as the exodus to the coast takes hold. Well-marked, and great fun, lose yourself within spitting distance of the big smoke.
Entry requirements:
Open 6.30am to 5pm; night rides on Tuesdays; entrance fee payable
Facilities:
Ablutions, safe parking, bike-wash facilities, refreshments
Beware of:
Some of the tracks are dual-directional tracks, so please keep left
How to get there
You’ll find Thaba Trails at 101 Klip River Drive, Mulbarton, just across the road (R556) from the Panorama Shopping Centre on the premises of Southern Brickyard.
Trail info
Grading: Easy to Extreme
Duration: Various: 40 minutes to 4 hours
Configuration: Circular options; 6-30km
Start point: Thaba Trails office
Coordinates: S26°18’03.6″; E28°02’55.9″
Terrain: Singletrack and jeep track
Map: Map available on website
Cell Reception: Yes
Kwa Zulu Natal
Clearwater Trails
Plan two days, not one, of sports pass for Clearwater, there are too many options to do it justice in just one. And even if you do, you will want to come back and enjoy the passion that goes into the design, building and maintenance of the trails.
Entry requirements:
Day visitors welcome; fee payable
Facilities:
Ablutions, self-catering timber chalets, camping, braais, kiosk
Beware of:
Go out in pairs or groups for longer rides
More information:
How to get there
Travel 5km inland from the Port Edward traffic lights (R61) on the Izingolweni Road. Turn left here onto a gravel road (D595) signposted to Clearwater Trails and Taverna. Another 2km will get you to the end, where you turn right at the sign.
Cell Reception:
Yes, along most of trail
Trail Info
Grading: Easy to Difficult
Duration: Various, from 30 minutes to 4 hours
Configuration: Circular plus out-and-back; from 4.7-16km
Start point: Clearwater Cabins and Trails office
Coordinates: S31°02’46.5″; E30°10’07.6″
Terrain: Farm road, singletrack, dirt road, gravel and tar
Map: Available at reception
Holla Trails
Pop over the N2 from Ballito and escape the madness on a well-marked, tough-as-you-want-to-make-it set of trails that range from beginner to flippin hard. Climbing aplenty is rewarded with well-thoughtout descents and just enough flat sections to recover your breath. Just a quick warning: the long route is very long in the heat.
Entry requirements:
Day or annual permits available
Facilities:
Secure parking, ablutions, bike wash, light snacks and drinks
Beware of:
Tractors and farming traffic
How to get there
Follow Ballito Drive (M4) past the N2 to the T-junction with the R102 and turn left. Proceed fpr 800m before turning right on Esenembi Road. Drive on for approxiamately 1.2km and turn right towards Collishen Estate and Holla MTB Trails.
Trail info
Grading: Easy to Extreme
Duration: Various: 1-8 hours
Configuration: Circular and return options; 340km in total
Start Point: Collisheen Estates
Coordinates: S29°29’30.9″; E31°10’54.9″
Terrain: Jeep track, singletrack, wooden bridges and farm roads
Map: Map available at Holla MTB Trails and on website
Cell reception: Yes
Karkloof
We reviewed Karkloof in our December issue, in detail, suffice to say this is probably the top KZN destination for the MTB family – there are options for all abilities and intents, on well-marked, rider-built trails.
Entry requirements:
Fee payable at Karkloof Country Club
Facilities:
Toilets and ablutions, kiosk and pub, safe parking
Beware of:
Fire danger between June and September
More information:
How to get there
Take the Howick off-ramp from the N3 and continue onto the Main Street; turn onto the Karkloof Road and continue for 12km until you see the signs for Karkloof Country Club to your right (this is the D406 district road).
Trail info
Grading: Intermediate
Duration: 2-3 hours
Configuration: Circular ride, 30km
Start Point: Karkloof Country Club
Coordinates: S29°22’59.4″; E30°13’48.8″
Terrain: Superb singletrack most of the way
Map: Available at the Karkloof Country Club
Cell Reception: Yes
Rocky Bay
Stuck on the South Coast with nowhere to go? Head to Rocky Bay Resort and enjoy their kilometres of lush forested and sugarcane roads and tracks, including 20-odd kilometres of the trails the annual Sani2c finishes on.
Entry requirements:
Entry fee per bike
Facilities:
Shop, restaurant, ablutions, secure parking, swimming pool and various accommodation options
Beware of:
Vehicles on the farm roads; there is no water on the trails
More information:
Join the Rocky Bay Resort Facebook page for updates on events and specials
How to get there
Travelling from Durban, south on the N2, take the Park Rynie/ uMzinto (R612) off-ramp, turning left towards the sea. At the robot, turn right onto Old South Coast Road and travel for ± 2km. Rocky Bay Resort will be on your left-hand
Trail info
Grading: Easy to Difficult
Duration: 1-3 hours
Configuration: Four loops of 11km, 19km, 29km and 36km
Start Point: Rocky Bay Resort
Coordinates: S30°20’08.2″; E30°43’57.9″
Terrain: From hard gravel farm roads to smooth singletrack
Cell reception: Good
Limpopo
Kruger National Park
The trails from the Oliphants Rest Camp take you through big five country, and you are escorted by armed rangers at all times. Riding varies from sandy to technical, and the heat will be a factor, so prepare properly with water, sunscreen and early rides. It is worth it.
Entry requirements:
Rides for camp guests only
Facilities:
Chalets and camping facilities, restaurant, ablutions
Beware of:
This is a malaria area
How to get there
Follow the N4 to Mbombela, then take the R40 northwards via Hazyview, Bushbuck Ridge and Klaserie to Hoedspruit. Continue on the R40 to Mica, splitting right to Phalaborwa Gate. Once in the park, follow the signs to Olifants Camp.
Trail Info
Grading: Easy, Intermediate, Difficult
Duration: Depends on route chosen
Configuration: Circular
Start point: Olifants Camp
Coordinates: S24°00’20.1″; E31°44’24.8″
Terrain: Gravel roads and game tracks
Map: Maps available at entry gates; all tours are guided
Cell Reception: Yes, in most of the park
Lindani
With some of the best riding in the Waterberg, Lindani offers some mild game-spotting opportunities too, as well as birds galore. The trails are fairly technical, and it will be hot, so experience and preparing properly are key in the summer months.
Entry requirements:
Free for lodge guests; day visitors pay a fee
Facilities:
Various accommodation options on site; toilets and showers (when Maroela Camp or Molope Campsite are not occupied); picnic sites
Beware of:
Game (no big five), snakes and the odd drop-off
More information:
Vaalwater is your final stop for fuel, fresh produce and ice
How to get there
From Vaalwater, take Melkrivier Road; after 37km, the entrance to Lindani is on your right. From Mokopane, follow the signs to Marken and then Vaalwater. The Lindani entrance is on the left, 7km after the Melkrivier Winkel.
Trail info
Grading: Easy to Difficult
Duration: Up to 6 hours
Configuration: Various circular options; up to 70km
Start Point: Farm office
Coordinates: S24°03’23.5″; E28°22’08.2″
Terrain: Singletrack, firm surfaces with patches of rock and sand, good gravel and 4×4 roads
Map: Map of singletrack and jeep tracks with contours and profiles available on website and at the office
Cell Reception: Intermittent
Free State
Gariep Dam Forever Resort
Relatively non-technical trails are rewarded with the peace and quiet – and scenery – that all holidays need. The blesbok, gemsbok, eland, wildebeest and springbok are always up for a race, if you feel the urge.
Entry requirements:
Entry fee payable
Facilities:
Ablutions at gate but no facilities along the route
Beware of:
Aardvark holes in unexpected spots
How to get there
Travel north along the N1 past Colesberg, and look for the turn-off onto the Lake Gariep Tourist Route around 15km later. Follow the signs into Gariep Dam town; the turn-off to the Forever Resort is on your left, less than 1km later.
Trail info
Grading: Easy
Duration: 1-4 hours
Configuration: Various options
Start point: Forever Resort
Coordinates: S30°35’48.4″; E25°30’07.8″
Terrain: Gravel roads, jeep track, singletrack, savanna plains and low koppies
Map: Available at Forever Resort
Cell reception: Intermittent
Golden Gate Highlands National Park
Crack off some altitude training in this hidden gem. Smooth roads dominate here, and we almost didn’t include it, but in the Clarens area are some slick trails and a fair amount of Moabesque slick-rock riding that will tick most riders’ boxes, and you will come back fit and as strong as a goat.
Entry requirements:
Regular park fees payable
Facilities:
Full range of amenities at Golden Gate and in Clarens
Beware of:
Wild animals roam freely in the park, so please be vigilant on the roads. Also, sudden mists roll in across the mountains very quickly.
How to get there
From Johannesburg or Durban, follow the N3 to Harrismith, then continue onto the N5 (Bethlehem) until you get to the left turn onto the R712. Travel towards Phuthaditjhaba, but bypass it until you enter the Golden Gate Highlands National Park at the checkpoint. All camps and the Golden Gate Hotel are clearly signposted along this route.
Trail info
Grading: Easy
Duration: About 2-3 hours in the saddle (49.8km)
Configuration: An out-and-back ride with two loop options into the park
Start point: In Clarens or at park entrance
Coordinates: S28°30’12.0″; E28°36’33.0″
Terrain: Tarmac; dirt roads outside park in QwaQwa area
Map: Available at park reception
Cell reception: Full reception
North West
Berakah
Cruise the Vredefort Dome along a network of technical, rocky trails and paths that double as a quad adventure. Bring your bike-handling A-game, and some fitness, but the rewards for pushing your boundaries in both are some exceptional views.
Entry requirements:
Entry fee payable
Facilities:
Toilets at start; there is a beautiful camp on top of the mountain where there is a watering point
Beware of:
Summer heat; thorns; snakes
How to get there
Follow the N12 from Johannesburg to Potchefstroom, and then turn south to Venterskroon. Look out for the Berakah Adventures signs and follow these along a dirt road to the Adventure Camp gate. Continue on the dirt road for +2km to the Berakah Adventures signs and follow these.
Trail info
Grading: Intermediate to Difficult (rugged, stony climbs)
Duration: Depends on your choice of route
Cconfiguration: 12-23km circular routes
Start Point: Berakah Camp
Coordinates: S26°49’25.0″; E27°22’20.0″
Terrain: Steep, rock-strewn jeep tracks, dongas, log bridges
Map: Trail maps available at Berakah reception
Cell reception: Good cellphone reception
Van Gaalen Cheese Farm
A hop and a skip from Jozi for the home-bound, the trails here are continually updated and improved, so even if you went last week, go again just in case you missed something.
Entry requirements:
Purchase a day permit and sign the indemnity form at the farm
Facilities:
Restaurant and ablutions at start, picnic spots, accommodation
Beware of:
Look out for horses on trails, and stop until they pass you
More information:
Access limited or closed during events
How to get there
Van Gaalen Cheese Farm is situated just off the R560, about 3km north of Skeerpoort.
Trail info
Grading: Intermediate to Extreme
Duration: Various
Configuration: Up to 100km of trails
Start Point: Van Gaalen Restaurant
Coordinates: S25°47’16.3″; E27°46’19.6″
Terrain: Singletrack, jeep track and horse trails
Map: Available from the trail guide/farm office
Cell reception: Yes
Western cape
Tokai
Big city riding at its best. Yes, the drive out to Jonkershoek will offer better trails and a more complete riding experience if you have the time (or are based in the Winelands), but Tokai is 20 minutes from most of the Cape Town holiday spots, and the views across Hout Bay, the Cape Flats, the Back Table and even all the way to Cape Point are special. And you earn the joy, climbing nearly a kilometre if you do the full mast trip.
Entry requirements:
Fee payable at picnic area; a Wild Card from SANParks must be loaded with an annual MTB permit
Facilities:
Parking, with a car guard on duty; tea room and toilet facilities
Beware of:
Slippery during/ after rains; baboons,snakes and hikers
More information:
Gravel road cruising to extreme, technical downhills, and everything in-between; the singletracks consist of fairly compacted dirt trails and sections of rocks and tree roots
How to get there
From Cape Town, follow the M3 for 25km towards Muizenberg, then turn left onto the off-ramp to Tokai, passing right under the highway. Continue for 2km pasta traffic circle and turn left at Tokai Manor towards the Arboretum.
Trail info
Grading: Moderate to extreme
Duration: 2-5 hours
Configuration: Various circular or return options, up to 40km
Start Point: Arboretum, Tokai Forest
Coordinates: 34°03’394″S, 18°24’582″E
Terrain: Gravel road, jeep track and singletrack
Map: Available from SAFCOL Office, picnic area
Cell Reception: Signal along most of ride
Harkerville
The Holy Grail of mountain-bike trails in South Africa, the Red Route at Harkerville started it all. We have been riding it since the late 80s, and after 40 or more laps, it is still breathtaking, every single time. If you don’t find yourself stopping at the cliff-top bench to soak in the view, ride it again until you do: the de-stress isn’t working yet.
Entry requirements:
Permit from Garden of Eden or Knysna Cycle Works
Facilities:
Ablution facilities; fairly secure parking
Beware of:
Super-slippery roots and bridges; trees across route
More information:
Knysna Cycle Works, tel; +27 44 382 5153; Mountain Biking Africa, tel: +27 82 783 8392
How to get there
Harkerville is on the N2 freeway, 20km past Knysna en route to Plettenberg Bay. All routes may be started on the N2 opposite the Garden of Eden DWAF kiosk (where you pick up your permit) or from the Harkerville Forestry Office at the Kranshoek Road Gate.
Trail Info
Grading: Easy to advanced
Duration: 1-4 hours
Configuration: Circular – 12-27km
Start Point: Garden of Eden kiosk
Coordinates: 34°2’4.21″S, 23°11’53.17″E
Terrain: Gravel road and lots of singletrack
Map: With permit; route marked (four colour- coded options)
Cell Reception: Good coverage
Homtini
So Knysna gets two mentions, deservedly. Homtini offers a few hours of complete peace and quiet, in indigenous forests, on old logging paths and forestry roads. Not as technically perfect as the Red Route, but to many the greater MTB experience.
Entry requirements:
Purchase permit at Goudveld Forest Station entrance
Facilities:
Ablution facilities at start; fairly secure parking
Beware of:
Bush pig poop; singletrack overdose on home run
More information:
For local MTB info, contact Mountain Biking Africa, tel: +27 82 783 8392
How to get there
Travel east along the N2 towards Knysna and, 10km before reaching the town, turn left in the direction of Rheenendal. Drive along the tar road for about 15km before turning right towards the Goudveld/ Millwood/Jubilee Creek Forest Station. Drive for 2km to an entrance boom to buy your permit, then continue for a further 2km to the Krisjan-se-Nek picnic site where the trail starts.
Trail Info
Grading: Intermediate
Duration: 90 minutes
Configuration: Circular- 19km
Start Point: Krisjan-se-Nek picnic site
Coordinates: 33°55’42.25″S, 22°56’47.98″E
Terrain: Gravel road, jeep track and sizzling singletrack
Map: Available at Goudveld; route marked every 1km
Cell Reception: Good coverage
Hemel En Aarde
Hermanus is chaos over the holidays, but relief from the madding crowd – if you are marooned there anyway – is a short singletrack away. The network of routes is ever-expanding – and well-maintained – and part of it forms the final fun flurry on the annual Wines2Whales events.
Entry requirements:
Fee payable
Facilities:
Bicycle shop, toilets, restaurants at start
Beware of:
Slippery tree roots in winter along forest sections
How to get there
As you enter the outskirts of Hermanus on the R43 from Cape Town, take a left at the Sandbaai/ Caledon intersection. The Hemel en Aarde village is on your left. Register and pay at either Euodia Cycles or The Wine Village. There is ample parking.
Trail Info
Grading: Moderate to difficult
Duration: From 30 minutes to 5 hours
Configuration: Circular or return options
Start Point: Euodia Cycles, Hemel en Aarde village, Hermanus
Coordinates: 34°24’44.02″S, 19°12’4.07″E
Terrain: Farm roads, jeep tracks, singletrack
Map: From Wine Village or Euodia Cycles
Cell Reception: Good
Eastern Cape
Swartberg Pass/ Die Hel
Choose between just riding the Pass both ways – 40 kilometres each way across a not-insignificant mountain range, and back again, the closest to Alpine climbing you will find in the Cape – or go manly and drop into Die Hel, and absorb the unique history of this forgotten valley. The latter is a very big ride – not skills-wise, but you need to be really fit. Most choose to make it a two-day trip.
Entry Requirements:
Public road
Facilities:
Accommodation, restaurants, shops in Prince Albert
Beware of:
Extreme heat in summer; freezing cold in winter
More information:
For local MTB info, contact Ecobound MTB Adventures, tel: +27 44 871 4455
How to get there
Prince Albert is on the R407, 46km towards Oudtshoorn from the N1.
Trail Info
Grading: Intermediate to Extreme
Duration: 3-5 hours
Configuration: 57km each way
Start Point: Prince Albert
Coordinates: 33°13’31.7″S,22o01’47.2″E
Terrain: Some tarmac; gravel
Map: Available from Prince Albert Tourism
Cell Reception: Intermittent
Away with the fairies – Hogsback
Let’s get the Tolkien thing over with – the great writer had never visited this gobsmackingly beautiful area when he penned The Hobbit. Which does not sit well with how Hobbitty the place is. The trails are gorgeous, cool and foresty (mainly) and the atmosphere and hospitality typically Eastern-Cape: friendly and inclusive for all your off-the-bike activities. Enjoy the tranquillity.
Entry Requirements:
Permit from Away with the Fairies Backpackers
Facilities:
The village has a full range of accommodation options
Beware of:
Extreme tree roots into Arboretum (may have been fixed)
More information:
For local MTB information, contact Dan Cornick, tel: +27 72 668 0602
How to get there
Turn off the N2 onto the R63, then take the R345 to Hogsback. ‘Away with the Fairies’ Backpackers is signposted down Hydrangea Lane – ask any local for directions.
Trail Info
Grading: Intermediate (some technical sections)
Duration: 2 hours
Configuration: Circular (17km); various other permutations
Start Point: Arminel Hotel (guided rides from Away with the Fairies)
Coordinates: 32°36’105″S,26o56’455″E
Terrain: Gravel road, jeep track and superb singletrack
Map: From Away with the Fairies Backpackers
Cell Reception: Good coverage
Tsitsikamma
The Cape coast at its best – raging, beautiful and rugged. The riding is a mix of fun trails and plenty of chatty forestry roads, with plenty to do off the bike if you are an adventure junkie.
Entry requirements:
Free self-issue permits available at gate for first section; permit for SAPPI section from Storms River Adventures
Facilities:
Ablution facilities; parking at Tsitsikamma State Forest, Storms River office or Tsitsikamma Forest Inn
Beware of:
Forestry vehicles, hikers; on the descent down the pass, beware of water humps across the road – they may not be high, but are steep enough to launch you
More information:
Amazing forest and coastal views
How to get there
Start and finish at Tsitsikamma State Forest Storms River office in Storms River Village (not to be confused with Storms River Mouth). From the N2, turn off to Storms River Village (154km from PE and 75km from Plett). Follow this road into the village, turn left at the stop street, pass the Tsitsikamma Forest Inn, and you’ll see the office on your right.
Trail info
Grading: Intermediate
Duration: 2-3 hours
Configuration: 22-55km circular
Start Point: Start at Tsitsikamma State Forest office or at Tsitsikamma Forest Inn in Storms River Village
Coordinates: 33°58’26.6″S,23°53’14.7″E
Terrain: Gravel roads and plantation jeep track, river crossings
Map: Available at the Storms River office
Cell reception: Good
Woodridge and Thornhill
Based in the Longmore Forest Reserve, there is a fine mix of technical and fun trails. Just south of Port Elizabeth on the N2, you can also pop on a bit further and look for the new Jeffreys Bay trail network, but for now these two will guarantee a few days of fun riding.
Entry Requirements:
Permit available from Cyclo Pro
Facilities:
Ablutions and water at Van Stadens Wild Flower Reserve
Beware of:
Some challenging rock gardens, slippery when wet
How to get there
Woodridge is just off the N2, approximately 35km from Port Elizabeth on your way to Cape Town. Carry on for another 5-6km along the N2 to reach Thornhill on your right next to the highway.
Trail Info
Grading: Easy to very technical
Duration: 45 minutes
Configuration: 8km circular loop
Start Point: Woodridge School
Coordinates: 33°55’02.6″S, 25°12’17.0″E
Terrain: Singletrack, rocky sections
Map: From Cydo Pro or school
Cell reception: Good
Northern Cape
Goegap
Head out into the desert, just east of Springbok, and enjoy the crunch of wheels on gravel: there are no other sounds. Peace, quiet and a gentle mix of jeeptrack, gravel roads, with a few slick-rock bumps as you hit the only big climb, make this a must-ride in our books.
Entry Requirements:
An entrance fee is payable at the gate and an additional rate is levied per rider
Facilities:
Self-catering cottages, safe parking within the reserve, and ablutions
Beware of:
Extreme temperatures
More Information:
Moderate to difficult ride, with the terrain and surface adding to the difficulty level; take care – desert ecosystems are extremely fragile and careless actions may upset their delicate balance
How to get there
The Goegap Nature Reserve is situated 15km east of Springbok; to get there, head towards the airport along the R355 until you see the reserve signage indicating the turn-off to the gate.
Trail info
Grading: Moderate to Difficult
Duration: 2-3 hours
Configuration: Circular 22km ride, plus various other gravel road options
Start Point: Reserve office
Coordinates: 29°39’56.4″S, 17°59’51.7″E
Terrain: Semi-desert, sand and some rocky sections
Map: Available from the office at Goegap Nature Reserve
Cell Reception: No coverage
Marrick
Slap-bang in the middle of SA lies Kimberley, famous for the Big Hole, and Marrick Safari’s marvellous trails. The area seems flat, but come prepared for never-ending rollers and tough terrain, and with plenty of water in summer. Plenty. Of. Water.
Entry requirements:
Day visitor fee applies to riders; no fees for Marrick guests
Facilities:
Guesthouse, self-catering cottages, ablutions
Beware of:
Heat and thunderstorms in summer
More information:
A variety of terrain, fun for all levels, plus good game viewing
How to get there
From Kimberley, head west along the R357 towards Douglas for approximately 14km until you reach the turn-off to Marrick Safari. From the Barkly West crossing (on the road from Kimberley) the turn-off is 10km away.
Trail info
Grading: Intermediate
Duration: 1-5 hours
Configuration: Options from 5km to a 40km circular ride
Start Point: Marrick Safaris reception
Coordinates: 28°46’40.3″S,24<36’40.1″E
Terrain: Flat and sandy paths with hills and koppies
Map: A trail map, including distances, available from Marrick Safari
Cell reception: Reasonable coverage
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