Closest Town: Karkloof
Grading: Intermediate | Duration: 2-3 Hours
Location (Area/Province): KZN - Natal and Midlands
Configuration: 20km circuit
Start Point: Start at Rockwood Forest Lodge
Access: Day visitors by appointment only. R50.00 per person, payable to Rockwood Forest Lodge
Beware of:
Facilities: Luxury self-catering or lodge accommodation available.
Cell Reception: Not everywhere
OVERVIEW
The Karkloof is excellent mountain biking country. Every year there are about 10 MTB races in the greater area with the main event being the Karkloof Classic held in May each year.
On your bike
This 20 km ride follows a well-marked circuit in and around the Karkloof nature reserve, including some plantation roads and one steep, rocky climb. There are many river crossings with some sections on singletrack through the indigenous Karkloof Forest so fit proper off-road tyres to your bike. The trail passes by two waterfalls and has some spectacular views out over the Karkloof Valley. Rockwood Lodge can organize longer, guided rides for fitter riders looking for a challenge. The lodge also has bikes for hire if you don’t want the trouble of transporting your own.
Off the bike
In addition to fishing, birding and abseiling down a 54m waterfall in the Karkloof Nature Reserve, adventure junkies can swing through the indigenous forest with Karkloof Canopy Tours and perhaps come eye-to-eye with a longcrested eagle or samango monkey. Phone +27 (0)33 330 3415 or email info@karkloofcanopytour.co.za for more information.
CONTACT:
Route information: Kerry Hankock, Rockwood Forest Lodge
Address: 5 Royal Palms, 638 Essenwood Road, Durban, 4001
Telephone: +27 (0)31 502 4043 or +27 (0)82 800 4238
Email: info@rockwood.co.za
Website: www.rockwood.co.za
GPS: 29°29′17.4″ South / 030°13′47.6″ East
