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Bloemfontein Franklin Nature Reserve Trail

🏔️ TRAIL CONDITIONS TODAY
Updated 2 hours ago · 🗺️ Free State (province average)
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21°C
Overcast
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Marginal — Rideable
Overcast with 10% chance of rain — likely dry but keep an eye on the forecast.
💧 Precipitation 10%
💦 Humidity 55%
💨 Wind 17 km/h
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Franklin Game Reserve is one of Bloemfontein’s best-kept recreational secrets — a fully-fenced game reserve within the city boundaries that is home to white rhino, zebra, springbok, black wildebeest and other plains game. The 12km MTB trail winds through the reserve on compacted dirt tracks and singletrack, combining quality riding with genuine wildlife encounters.

What to Expect

The terrain is intermediate — rocky koppie sections, dirt tracks through open veld and some technical singletrack. The game reserve environment adds an authentic quality to the riding: wildlife encounters are real and frequent. Ride quietly and maintain a safe distance from all animals, particularly the rhino.

Wildlife Safety

Franklin is a fully-fenced reserve with white rhino. Follow all reserve protocols — do not approach or corner wildlife, and if you encounter rhino on the trail, stop, stay calm and allow the animal to move away before continuing.

Getting There

Located within Bloemfontein city limits. Access from the reserve gate — confirm directions with Bloemfontein Tourism. GPS: -29.1234, 26.2012.

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