Exploring Golden Gate

Golden Gate Challenge

©David Fleminger

View of 'Roof of Africa'.

Trail Destination: Golden Gate (Eastern Free State).
Where: Golden Gate Highlands National Park, near Clarens.
Reasons to Run: ‘Roof of Africa’ views from high Maloti ridges, access to off-limits areas such as Cathedral Caves, plus you’re supporting the Wildlands Conservation Trust.
Trail Routes: Days of exploring along of off-road trail, plus scenic tarmac runs for the not so wild at heart.
Event: Golden Gate Challenge: a stunning, 70km-day Stage race over three days.
Grading: Full event route is on single-track and jeep-track; but be warned the Free State is not flat.

Hiking and Horse Riding

©Chris Daly

The Buttress - the iconic geological feature of Golden Gate Highlands National Park.

The Destination: The Golden Gate National Park boasts a fascinating geological heritage, dating back millions of years to when the area was a swampy delta ruled by dinosaurs. Erosion turned the landscape to desert, then sculpted the dramatic amber cliffs before volcanic activity finally capped the landscape with soaring basalt peaks.
The Experience: Glorious views come as part of the deal, if you tramp the trails to top out on the Brandwag Buttress or Ribokkop, this is the highest point in the park. The Rhebok 2-day trail allows you to overnight in the wilds. And if hiking is not your thing, you can always arrange a horse.
The Detail: Rhebok Hiking Trail (2 days, 1 night and maximum 18 people per group); advance booking essential and hikers must be totally self-reliant. Plus a range of shorter nature trails (from 1-5 hours); no bookings required.
Getting There: GPS coordinates (West Gate): X28.57871 and Y28.50125.

By Jacques Marais