Van Gaalen 40km Challenge

The Van Gaalen 40km Challenge is the definitive Skeerpoort Valley experience — a full-day ride through the network’s most demanding terrain including the notorious Pofadder route (steep rocky descent with baby-head rocks and big drops) and the Greek Church climb (the most physically demanding ascent in the network). The SA Top MTB Trails review describes Van Gaalen as ‘can be a chilled day out on the trails or an absolute beast’ — the 40km challenge is firmly in ‘absolute beast’ territory.

What to Expect

Full-network technical terrain over 40km — the complete range from flat river valley singletrack to the Pofadder’s aggressive rocky descents and the Greek Church’s demanding ascent. Start at 06:00 to complete the challenge in reasonable time with energy for the descent rewards. The 150km total trail network means the 40km loop never repeats terrain. Full protective gear including eye protection and tyre sealant are strongly recommended.

Getting There

R560, 3.5km north of Skeerpoort. GPS: -25.7883, 27.7715.

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