Closest Town: George
Grading: Easy
Duration: 1–3 hours
Location (Area/Province): Garden Route
Configuration: Various options – from 10km
Start Point: Witfontein in the Outeniqua Nature Reserve
Access: Free permit from the Witfontein Office
Beware of: Hikers; fallen trees
Facilities: Ablution facilities at start
Cell Reception: Good
This unmarked ride follows a network of forestry jeep tracks through pine plantation, indigenous forest and mountain fynbos in the Outeniqua Mountains above George.
On your bike
The route is mainly along forestry service roads with good gravel surface, making it a perfect day on the bike for most levels of riders. There are, however, a few good downhills, with the longest climb topping out at just on 2km. Catch your breath along the speedy flats while you buzz the upper level of the contour road for great views as far away as Mossel Bay.
For more information on the mountain-biking trails around George, check out our blogpost here!
Off the bike
Where there are mountains, there will be hiking trails. Outeniqua Nature Reserve has plenty of both. No fewer than five mountain passes cross the length of the reserve. Choose from day hikes and multi-day hikes and, if you want to do your exploring from the comfort of your car, a 4×4 trail across the Attakwaskloof can be done in a day.
Permits are needed; these can be picked up at the reserve office along with trail maps. There is accommodation within the park for overnight hikers.
GPS: 33°56’06.8” S 22°25’37.8” E
