Ficksburg Cherry Trail
Ficksburg is the Cherry Capital of South Africa — a sandstone town near the Lesotho border surrounded by cherry orchards that explode into blossom each September. The Cherry Trail is a 25km intermediate MTB loop that winds through these orchards and into the sandstone mountain terrain beyond, delivering a uniquely Free State riding experience with Maluti Mountain backdrops.
What to Expect
Singletrack and gravel farm roads connect the orchards and mountain terrain around Ficksburg. The riding is intermediate with moderate climbing on sandstone terrain. In September and October, the route passes through rows of cherry trees in full blossom — a spectacularly photogenic and fragrant backdrop for a mountain bike ride.
Ficksburg Cherry Festival
The annual Cherry Festival in late November is one of the Free State’s biggest agricultural events. Riding the Cherry Trail during festival weekend adds a festive atmosphere to the experience — market stalls, food and local produce available in town.
Getting There
Ficksburg is on the R26 in the eastern Free State, 15km from the Caledonspoort border post with Lesotho. GPS: -28.8734, 27.8789.
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