Our Top Mountain Bike Trails in Pretoria
Scenic Mountain Bike Routes Near The Jacaranda City
Pretoria has quietly become one of Gauteng’s best destinations for mountain biking. Wide open countryside, purpose-built trail networks, and plenty of family-friendly routes make it a favourite for weekend riders. Whether you are after flowing singletrack, technical sections, or a relaxed ride through nature, these mountain bike trails in Pretoria offer something for every level of rider.
Explore more of Pretoria in our Pretoria City Guide, where we talk about restaurants, bars, things to do, and the best shopping spots.
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1. The Big Red Barn
The Big Red Barn offers a large network of marked mountain bike trails ranging from easy family-friendly routes to more technical singletrack and climbs. The trails run through forest, farmland and open grassland, and facilities include a restaurant, bike shop, showers and trail permits available on site. There are multiple route distances available, making it suitable for both short rides and longer training sessions.
Why #HelloRecommends: Big Red Barn is one of the most popular riding spots in Gauteng thanks to its variety of trails, great facilities and relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced riders.
2. Rosemary Hill
Rosemary Hill offers a network of mountain bike and gravel trails through farmland, lavender fields, open countryside and forest sections. The trails are not overly technical, making them suitable for beginners and intermediate riders, and the farm also offers a restaurant, farm shop, accommodation and weekend markets.
Why #HelloRecommends: Rosemary Hill is perfect for a relaxed day out — you can ride in the morning and then stay for lunch, coffee or a farm walk, making it more of a full-day lifestyle destination than just a trail ride.
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3. Cradle Moon
Cradle Moon Game Lodge offers scenic mountain bike trails around the Cradle of Humankind area, with routes ranging from easy tracks to more challenging climbs and longer routes. Riders can expect river crossings, open grassland, wildlife sightings and scenic views, and trail permits are required.
Why #HelloRecommends: Cradle Moon is one of the most scenic rides near Pretoria and Johannesburg, with open landscapes, wildlife and long flowing routes that feel far removed from the city.
4. Buffelsdrift Trail Park
Buffelsdrift Trail Park offers a variety of mountain bike trails including district roads, singletrack and technical sections, with multiple route distances available. The trails run through bushveld terrain with climbs, descents and open sections, and the park also offers hiking trails and picnic areas.
Why #HelloRecommends: Buffelsdrift is ideal for riders looking for bushveld riding close to the city, with varied terrain and quieter trails than some of the more popular Gauteng riding spots.
5. Hazeldean Valley Trails
Hazeldean Valley Trails offer a network of flowing singletrack, jeep track and farm roads through the Hazeldean Valley area. The trails are suitable for beginner to intermediate riders and are often used for trail running and events as well as mountain biking.
Why #HelloRecommends: Hazeldean Valley Trails are perfect for quick rides and training sessions, especially for riders based in Pretoria East looking for accessible trails close to the city.
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