Thabo Mofutsanyana Highland Trail

The Thabo Mofutsanyana Highland Trail ventures into some of the highest and most spectacular mountain terrain accessible by mountain bike in South Africa. The 35km advanced loop climbs through the Maluti Mountains above QwaQwa into sub-alpine highland grassland with extraordinary views of the Drakensberg escarpment and the Lesotho highlands.

What to Expect

Rocky singletrack and mountain tracks climb to high-altitude plateau terrain above 2,000m. The riding is technically demanding and physically taxing — significant elevation gain, rocky and loose terrain, and high altitude all require genuine fitness and experience. The reward is extraordinary: sweeping views of the Drakensberg wall, the Lesotho highlands and the QwaQwa valley far below.

High-Altitude Riding

The upper sections of this trail are among the highest rideable terrain in the Free State. Altitude sickness is a real risk for riders coming from low elevations — acclimatise for at least one day in Phuthaditjhaba before attempting this route. Weather on the high ground changes rapidly — plan to be descending by early afternoon.

Getting There

Access from Phuthaditjhaba on the N5 east of Harrismith. GPS: -28.6012, 28.8523.

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🌐 Visit Official Trail Website →