3Rivers Trails

• Gamtoos

The idea of 3Rivers Trails started while riding PE to Plett in September 2013!

What best than being able to ride across a whole area between the Gametoos River, Van Stadens River and the Elands River, whiteout boundaries? Some people said we were dreamers. But how poor life would be without dreams! Anyway, the dream gently became reality and from day to day we got permission and agreement from over 15 land owners what it is just awesome! REALLY BIG THANKS to all 3Rivers Trails supporters!

3Rivers Trails aim to contribute to the local development to bring more business and create job opportunities.

With over 200km of trails and more than 65km of singletrack you'll have plenty of riding to choose from. Be prepared for some of the best trails in South Africa!

Ride Open Trails: Respect trail and road closures — ask a land manager for clarification if you are uncertain about the status of a trail. Do not trespass on private land. Obtain permits or other authorization as required. Be aware that bicycles are not permitted in areas protected as state or federal Wilderness.

Leave No Trace: Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you. Wet and muddy trails are more vulnerable to damage than dry ones. When the trail is soft, consider other riding options. This also means staying on existing trails and not creating new ones. Don’t cut switchbacks. Be sure to pack out at least as much as you pack in.

Control Your Bicycle: Inattention for even a moment could put yourself and others at risk. Obey all bicycle speed regulations and recommendations, and ride within your limits.

Yield Appropriately: Do your utmost to let your fellow trail users know you’re coming — a friendly greeting or bell ring are good methods. Try to anticipate other trail users as you ride around corners. Bicyclists should yield to other non-motorized trail users, unless the trail is clearly signed for bike-only travel. Bicyclists traveling downhill should yield to ones headed uphill, unless the trail is clearly signed for one-way or downhill-only traffic. In general, strive to make each pass a safe and courteous one.

Never Scare Animals: Animals are easily startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden movement or a loud noise. Give animals enough room and time to adjust to you. When passing horses, use special care and follow directions from the horseback riders (ask if uncertain). Running cattle and disturbing wildlife are serious offenses.

Plan Ahead: Know your equipment, your ability and the area in which you are riding and prepare accordingly. Strive to be self-sufficient: keep your equipment in good repair and carry necessary supplies for changes in weather or other conditions. Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear.

When riding at 3Rivers Trails you have access to remote area where access by vehicle is not always easy. Weather can change quickly and temperature can drop drastically within a very short period of time. Make sure you are self sufficient, food, drinks and repair kit. The most commun incidents are punctures and broken chain!

Recommended Bike Repair equipment:

• charged cell phone
• spare tube containing sealant
• tube repair kit
• multi-tool
• chain breaker
• master link
• mini-pump
• CO2 canister with inflator
• 10cm duck tape.

Before you start your ride:

• make sure your bicycle is in good condition
• Tire condition & pressure
• Breaks & pads
• Chain lube
• Quick Release tighten
• your helmet fits properly and in good condition
• glasses
• gloves
• suitable clothing
• sun cream
• you have informed one of a relatives on your itinerary – for how long you would be gone and who to contact in case you haven’t arrived at your designated time. 3Rivers Trails will not check up on this!

Please note:

3Rivers Trails permits (which includes all trails in Longmore) can only be purchased from 3Rivers Trails. Either on our website or at our sign in area at Crossways Country Kitchen (no longer from Jbay Bike Park, they operate independently and no longer form part of our trail network).