Zwartkops Mountain Bike Trail
Directions to the Trail
Get on to the N2 travelling eastwards out of Port Elizabeth. Take the John Tallant turn off (at the Algorax Factory) and turn left at the top of the off ramp. At the T-junction turn right on to the Old Grahamstown Road, and then left at the next set of traffic lights (towards Uitenhage). Turn left again at the Redhouse Road sign & continue passed the old power station on your left hand side. Take first left after this which will take you under the M17 (the road you ultimately need to be on), so stay left and take the loop back around and left on to the M17 to Motherwell. Continue over the Zwartkops River and then take the first entrance on the left hand side – in to the Algoa Brick parking area. You are more than welcome to park your vehicle here as it is a secure area.
Start
Algoa Brick Factory Parking Area
End
Algoa Brick Factory Parking Area
Distance
22 kilometre circular trail
Duration
4-5 hours
Rating
Moderate to Difficult (beginner cyclists will walk in some areas)
Permit
None required
Take With You
Sunglasses
Helmet
Sunscreen
Camera
Binoculars
Puncture Repair Kit
Tyre liners are a must
Refreshments & water for the ride
Insect repellent
Please Note
It is highly recommended that you cycle in a group.
Description
The trail crosses through the 850ha Zwartkops Valley Nature Reserve of dense valley and indigenous bushveld vegetation. Look out for breeding colonies and fossil-rich calcareous sandstone terrain. The route is clearly marked by blue arrow and bicycle motifs on concrete bollards.
A variety of birds, including flamingos and migrant waders can be found in this area – so be on the lookout if you have an interest in ornithology! Also worth a siting are the Vervet Monkeys, Cape Grysbok and the rare Blue Duiker.
There are several steep and challenging uphill climbs and technical downhills – so be prepared for these and take plenty of water.
Contact Details
Municipal Parks & Recreation
Tel: +27 (0)41 585 9711
Email: peparks@iafrica.com
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