Cradle Moon MTB Trails: A Gauteng Gem for Mountain Bikers
If you’re a mountain biking enthusiast in Gauteng—or even just someone looking for a scenic outdoor adventure—Cradle Moon MTB Trails should be on your radar. Nestled in the heart of the Cradle of Humankind, this spot offers a perfect blend of thrilling trails, stunning landscapes, and a bushveld escape that feels a world away from the city, yet is just a short drive from Johannesburg. I’ve spent some time exploring this place, and I’m excited to share everything you need to know for your next ride.
Location: A Bushveld Getaway on the Urban Edge
Cradle Moon Lakeside Game Lodge, where the MTB trails are located, sits in Muldersdrift, Gauteng, about 32 kilometers from Sandton, Johannesburg. It’s roughly a 30- to 40-minute drive from northern Joburg or Pretoria, making it an easy day trip or weekend getaway. The lodge is part of the 1,500-hectare Cradle Moon Conservancy, a pristine area under the Zwartkop mountain, surrounded by farms like Ekudeni, Eduzani, and Kloofzicht. To get there from the N14, take the Beyers Naude off-ramp toward Swartkops, and you’ll find Cradle Moon 5.5 kilometers down the road on your left. It’s a hidden gem that feels like a proper bushveld escape, even though you’re still on the urban edge.
Trail Website: Your Go-To Resource
The official website for Cradle Moon Lakeside Game Lodge, which includes all the details on their MTB trails, is www.cradlemoon.co.za. You’ll find info on cycling, trail running, and other activities, plus contact details for bookings or inquiries. If you need to reach out, their email is reservations@cradlemoon.co.za, and their phone numbers are (011) 919-5000 or 087 110 1231. The website also has a section on their Sportspark at Avianto Clubhouse, which ties into the trails, though I’ll touch on that connection later.
Amenities: More Than Just Trails
Cradle Moon isn’t just about biking—it’s a full experience. The lodge offers a range of amenities that make it a great spot to spend the day or even stay overnight. They have 50 thatched bungalows (rondavels) for accommodation, each with two bedrooms, en-suite bathrooms, Wi-Fi, tea/coffee stations, and a covered veranda with views of the lodge and wildlife. It’s a cozy setup if you want to make a weekend of it.
Beyond the trails, there’s plenty to do. You can book a game drive to spot rhino, eland, kudu, zebra, and more, or take a 1.5-hour boat cruise on the 32-hectare Lake Heritage, where you might see the resident hippo family or the African Fish Eagle. The lake is also a hub for non-motorized water sports like open-water swimming, paddling, rowing, canoeing, and fly fishing. They’ve got a marked Hi-Tec Water Course with 500m, 1,000m, and 1,500m loops for swimmers, which also makes it a popular spot for duathletes and triathletes training in the area.
For post-ride relaxation, there’s a small white sand beach by the lake with sun loungers—perfect for a dip in summer when the water hits around 20°C. There’s also a swimming pool near the main restaurant if you prefer a more traditional swim. The activities center near the car park is where you can pick up trail maps, pay for your ride (R70 per person, including a R50 conservation fee), or rent a bike for the day (R200, though they have limited stock, so arrive early).
One thing to note: Cradle Moon isn’t a self-catering venue, so you’ll need to rely on their dining options for meals, which brings me to the next section.
Coffee Shops and Restaurants: Refuel with a View
Cradle Moon has two main dining areas that are perfect for a post-ride meal or coffee. The Cradle Moon Restaurant, located behind the reception, operates daily from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM on a first-come, first-serve basis—no bookings needed. They offer an à la carte menu with everything from light meals like salads and arancini balls (R75) to heartier options like steaks, chops, burgers, wraps, and pizzas. I tried the panko prawns (R90) and a mango crusher (R45) on my last visit, and I can confirm the portions are filling and the food is tasty. A meal for two, including drinks, came to about R255, excluding tip.
The second dining spot is a large deck along the Franz Richter dam wall—the largest stone dam wall on the continent—offering stunning views of the lake. It’s a fantastic place to relax with a drink while watching the sunset. There’s also the chic Current Café-Bar near the beach, which is great for a quick coffee or drink while you soak in the scenery. They have a deli on-site too, where you can grab snacks or picnic supplies if you’d rather eat by the dam.
One small gripe from other riders I’ve spoken to: the restaurants can get busy, especially on weekends, and there’s often a wait. Some have suggested adding a food truck or two for quicker post-ride snacks, which I think would be a great addition. For now, plan to arrive early or be patient if you’re eating after your ride.
Trail Types: Something for Everyone
Cradle Moon’s MTB trails are a highlight, with over 50 kilometers of well-maintained, predominantly singletrack routes catering to all skill levels. The trails wind through the conservancy’s diverse terrain—think forests, hills, rocky sections, and river frontage—while you share the space with over 300 heads of game like impala, springbok, wildebeest, and blesbok. Here’s a breakdown of the main trails, based on what I’ve ridden and what’s documented:
- Green Trail (5.1 miles / 8.2 km, 672 ft elevation gain): This is the easiest option, perfect for beginners or families. It’s a scenic loop around Cradle Lake, with gentle gradients and well-marked paths. You’ll spot birds, wildflowers, and maybe a zebra or impala along the way. It’s also popular for hiking and trail running, so expect some foot traffic. Riders have noted it’s not very shaded, so bring sunscreen.
- Blue Trail (11.0 miles / 17.7 km, 1,295 ft elevation gain): A step up in difficulty, this trail is great for intermediate riders. It includes singletrack, jeep track, and bermed corners, with easy “escape routes” back to the lodge if you need a break. The route takes you through varied terrain, with some longer climbs and descents. It’s the longest trail at Cradle Moon and offers the most elevation gain, making it a solid workout.
- Yellow Route (7.7 miles / 12.4 km, moderate elevation): Another intermediate option, this trail adds extra river frontage, multiple forests, and rocky sections. It’s got a lot of singletrack and takes longer to complete due to long climbs and technical descents. The route heads toward Beyers Naude Drive before looping back through the “Spookhuis” section—a fun, fast run toward the fire pool and a paved road back to the lodge. Riders love the flow and variety here.
- Red Trail (8.4 miles / 13.5 km, 1,210 ft elevation gain): This one’s for advanced riders only. It’s a challenging loop with small obstacles, technical descents, and steep climbs. The trail offers spectacular views of the lake and thick vegetation, but it’s not for the faint-hearted. Note that Cradle Moon is strict about staying on the marked path—veering off can get you asked to leave the Red Route immediately. It’s also shared with trail runners, so be mindful of others.
One thing to watch out for: some sections of the trails overlap with hiking and running paths, which can lead to congestion. I’ve heard mixed feedback about this—some riders love the vibe, but others find pedestrians (especially those walking with their backs to you) a bit frustrating when you’re trying to maintain speed. The lodge could probably improve signage or separate the paths more clearly to avoid this.
Links to Trail Maps
For detailed trail maps, AllTrails is a great resource. Here are direct links to the maps for each trail:
Green Trail Summary
Green Trail – 8.2kmLength, 205mElevation gain, 2h 10mEstimated time. Check out this 8.2-km loop trail near Zwartkop, Gauteng, known for its moderate challenge level and an average completion time of about 2 hours and 10 minutes. It’s a bustling spot for birdwatching, running, and walking, so expect to share the path with fellow explorers. The ideal time to visit is between December and October. This well-marked trail circles Cradle Lake, offering sightings of birds, wildflowers, insects, and even the occasional zebra or impala. The scenery is breathtaking, with the lake, trees, bushes, and a waterfall creating a picturesque backdrop. It’s a relaxed stroll, perfect for unwinding, and there’s a restaurant waiting at the end to refuel. Since the trail isn’t very shaded, make sure to slather on sunscreen before you head out.
Blue Trail Summary
7.7km, 395mElevation, 4h 30mEstimated time. Explore this 17.7-km loop trail near Krugersdorp, Gauteng, a moderately challenging route that typically takes around 4 hours and 30 minutes to complete. Popular among hikers, mountain bikers, and runners, this trail still offers moments of solitude if you visit during quieter times. The best months to hit this trail are from December to October.
The Blue Trail kicks off differently from the others, veering right from the start and passing the parking area before climbing toward the gate. You’ll tackle most of the elevation gain early on, followed by a smooth 4-km descent toward the dam. The route boasts large banked corners to help maintain your speed. Riders then trace the dam for 2 km before heading up to the platforms at Rebels Vlei. A final stretch of singletrack keeps things exciting before you loop back to the starting point.
Yellow Trail Summary
12.6km, 272mElevation, 3h 9mEstimated time. Set off on a 12.6-km circular trail near Krugersdorp, Gauteng, a route that offers a moderate challenge and typically takes about 3 hours and 9 minutes to finish. It’s a well-frequented path for activities like hiking, mountain biking, and running, though you can find some peaceful moments if you go during off-peak hours. Plan your visit between December and October for the best experience.
Cradle Moon’s scenery is stunning, with plenty of small obstacles to keep the journey engaging and dynamic. The lake views are breathtaking, framed by dense vegetation and towering trees. The final stretch picks up the pace as you descend quickly toward the fire pool, then head onto a paved road leading to the shop
Red Trail Summary
14.2km, 369m Elevation
Cradle Moon’s stunning landscape awaits on this 14.2-km loop trail near Krugersdorp, Gauteng, where you’ll find a moderately challenging ride perfect for advanced mountain bikers and runners. The trail, surrounded by thick vegetation and trees, offers breathtaking lake views and plenty of small obstacles to keep you engaged. Note that this Red Route is strictly for experienced riders—straying off the marked path or cutting corners isn’t allowed, and anyone caught doing so will be asked to leave immediately. While it’s a popular spot, you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.
You can also find GPS tracks in KML and GPX formats on Trailforks under the Cradle Moon Lakeside Lodge & Conservancy page, though you’ll need to log in to download them. The activities center at Cradle Moon also provides physical maps when you arrive.
Detailed Description: Why Cradle Moon Stands Out
Cradle Moon MTB Trails are special because they combine thrilling riding with an immersive nature experience. The trails are set within the 1,500-hectare Cradle Moon Conservancy, a restored eco-destination that was once the beloved Heia Safari Lodge from the 1970s. Under new ownership by Andy Dott and Kelvin van Niekerk, the lodge and trails have been revitalized while preserving the original character—like the Franz Richter dam wall and the natural Highveld biodiversity.
As you ride, you’ll pedal past iconic landmarks like the 32-hectare Lake Heritage, fed by the Crocodile River, and surrounded by diverse flora and fauna. The trails are well-maintained, with a mix of singletrack, jeep track, and technical sections that keep you engaged. Whether you’re on the beginner-friendly Green Trail or tackling the advanced Red Trail, you’re likely to spot wildlife—zebras, rhinos, antelopes, and even the occasional giraffe if you’re lucky. The scenery is breathtaking, with views of the lake, rolling hills, and the Zwartkop mountain in the background.
What I love most is how Cradle Moon caters to all levels of riders. The Green and Blue trails are perfect for families or beginners looking to build confidence, while the Yellow and Red trails offer enough technical challenges and elevation to satisfy seasoned cyclists. The trails are also secure, which is a big plus in Gauteng, and the staff are friendly and helpful—someone even lent me a tool when I forgot mine at home.
That said, it’s not perfect. The shared paths with hikers and runners can be a hassle, especially on busy weekends, and the lack of quick food options post-ride means you might be waiting a while to refuel. But overall, the combination of well-designed trails, wildlife encounters, and the lodge’s amenities makes Cradle Moon a standout destination.
Races at Cradle Moon: The Ford Trailseeker Series
Cradle Moon is a popular venue for mountain biking events, most notably as a stop on the Ford Trailseeker Series, South Africa’s largest and most prestigious MTB series. The second event in the 2025 series is scheduled to return to Cradle Moon, known for its challenging trails and scenic beauty. This race is a big draw for cyclists in the region, offering a chance to ride through the Cradle of Humankind’s rugged terrain and encounter wildlife along the way.
The Ford Trailseeker Series at Cradle Moon features distances of 70km, 40km, 20km, and 10km, catering to different skill levels. The 70km marathon is particularly tough, with steep elevation and diverse terrain that tests even the best riders. The series offers R100,000 in prize money for the marathon winners, plus a R1 million performance bonus for anyone who wins all six marathon-distance events in the series. It’s a competitive event, but there’s also a great vibe with food vendors, complimentary photo packs, and the chance to ride alongside some of South Africa’s top cyclists. Entries typically close a few days before the race, with late fees applying from the Thursday prior, so plan ahead. You can find more details on the Trailseeker Series website.
Final Thoughts: Plan Your Ride
Cradle Moon MTB Trails offer an unforgettable experience for riders of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a scenic cruise or an advanced rider craving a technical challenge, you’ll find it here—along with the bonus of wildlife sightings and a beautiful bushveld setting. The amenities, from the lake activities to the dining options, make it a great spot for a full day out or a weekend escape. Just be prepared for busy restaurants and shared trails, and maybe pack a snack in case you’re starving after your ride.
For more info or to book a stay, head to www.cradlemoon.co.za. Grab your bike, hit the trails, and let me know how your ride goes—I’d love to hear about your experience at Cradle Moon!
