Mount Kenya Singletrack — Sirimon Route

Mount Kenya rises to 5,199m as Africa’s second-highest peak, but its lower flanks — the forest zone, heath zone and moorland — are accessible to well-prepared MTB riders via the Sirimon Gate on the northwest side. Riding here is genuinely expedition-level: altitude, remote terrain, dramatic alpine flora and wildlife (elephant, buffalo, leopard) require full preparation. The rewards match the challenge.

The Routes

The 28km Sirimon Moorland Trail climbs from the gate through montane forest into the otherworldly moorland zone, where giant groundsel trees and lobelia stand 4–6m tall across open moorland at 3,500–4,000m. The 18km Judmaier Camp Loop circles the mid-altitude forest zone with significant elevation change and technical root and rock sections. The 12km Forest Zone Descent is the most accessible option — starting at altitude and descending through the cedar forest to the gate.

Getting There

From Nairobi take the A2 north through Karatina to Nanyuki (180km, approx 3 hours). The Sirimon Gate is clearly signed 15km east of Nanyuki. GPS: 0.0833, 37.3167.

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