Tsitsikamma Storms River Mountain Bike Trail

Posted in Cycle Trails | Cycling | Tourism | Tourist Attractions

Description

Tsitsikamma, an ancient Khoi word meaning “place of abundant or sparkling water”, perfectly describes this flourishing and exquisite region. Tsitsikamma is a place with secret beaches, temperate rain forests, serene black-water pools, rocky peaks and is home to giant yellowwood trees.

The trail can be started at either the Tsitsikamma Forest Inn in Storms River Village or at the Tsitsikamma State Forest Office.

The existing Storms River Mountain-Bike route follows the old national road through what is now part of the new Garden Route National Park. From here, the route ascends along the Storms River Pass on an excellent gravel road twisting through the spectacular indigenous forest for an easy two-kilometer start.

Following your start, ride down the steep five-kilometer descent winding to the Storms River below. The low-water bridge is a great place for a break and swim, but watch out for strong currents if the river is high.

The climb from the river and onto the coastal bluff is a hard two-kilometer ride, but then the gradient levels out onto the plateau. Take a sharp right and cross the Safcol pine plantations following the route markers for a few kilometers of flat riding. Don’t miss the viewpoint over the breathtaking Storms River Mouth and magnificent Tsitsikamma National Park.

The return trail cuts through a full-grown pine plantation and eventually rejoins the original route for the difficult five-kilometer climb back to the trailhead.

Looking to increase the distance of your ride? Follow the Safcol jeep tracks in a clockwise direction to follow the N2 back towards Storms River Village.

End

This is a circular route

Distance

22km – 55km

Duration

2 – 3 hours

Rating

Intermediate

Take With

puncture kit
spare tube
tools
refreshments and water
camera
GPS

General Information: Gravel roads and jeep-tracks with river crossings in the plantations. Suitable for children from 10 years old with experience. The climate is mild all year round, but the high rainfall means that it will probably be wet and muddy when you get there.

Personal Safety

Always underestimate your ability and ensure that you are fully equipped to enjoy your cycling in safety. Changes in weather conditions and damage to the route by other users may result in increased difficulties. Be prepared to carry your bike over sections which are beyond your cycling ability.

Getting There

From Port Elizabeth get on the N2 and drive until you get Tsitsikamma Total Village (Petrol Station) on your right-hand side. After the bridge about 3 ½ km on your right-hand side you will get “The Big Tree” and about 500 m after “The Big Tree” you will get on your left-hand side the turn off to our establishment. You will get a sign that will say “Black Water Tubing” and a sign that will say “Storms River Village” showing you to turn off, that is the turnoff you take.