3Rivers Trails lies about 40km west of Gqeberha/Port Elizabeth, near the little-known town of Thornhill – and boasts one of the largest trail networks in the country. 

You’re looking at roughly 200km of marked trail available to hikers, runners and mountain bikers of all levels. The trails span outwards from Crossway Country Kitchen and J-Bay Zebra Lodge and traverse a diverse mix of terrain and vegetation, offering an unparalleled view into this beautiful part of the Eastern Cape.

Officially opened in 2015, the 3Rivers trail network has continued to grow, with new trails being added regularly since its inception – the latest of which is the Forts Loop, a 41km venture into the Longmore Forest that provides stunning views of the area, and an opportunity to visit some historical sites dating back to the Boer War.

Other than its amazing scenery, what really makes 3Rivers special is that if offers something for nearly every type of rider. For the gravel grinders there are several long-route options, ranging from 30km to 80km; for the trail riders there are a good few technical climbs and long singletrack downhills; while for those just getting into the sport of mountain biking, 3Rivers also has some shorter, easy routes available.

3Rivers is easily accessible, and open to the public all year round. And with a day fee of only R50 to use the trails, it’s well worth the visit if you’re in the PE/Garden Route area. For more information, visit www.3riverstrails.co.za, or get in touch via email at info@3riverstrails.co.za.

3Rivers Trails Get There

Crossways Trail Head 

Crossways Country Kitchen, Crossways Farm Village, Thornhill

J-Bay Bike Park Trail Head 

Strandfontein 442, Portion 3, alongside R102, Thornhill

Fees & Times

Open sunrise to sunset, 365 days a year

Daily permits (7am to 3pm): R50 (adults), R25 (7-12 years)

MTB permit includes trail running and hiking access
Annual membership: Senior R415; Spouse/Pensioner R290; Family R815

 

3Rivers Trails The Routes

Black Porcupine 60km Moderate 1 272m

Grand Black 75km Moderate 1 690m

Red Holstein 31km Moderate 560m

Yellow Monkey 16km Moderate 299m

Purple Cow 10km Easy 130m

Baby Monkey 6km Easy 79m

Oxwagon Pass 15km Moderate 360m

Black Mamba 6km Difficult 95m

You’re Gorgeous 1km Difficult 36m

Long Drop 1km Moderate 14m

The Forts 41km Moderate 1 240m

J-Bay Red 9km Moderate 240m

 

 

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