Corktree Trail

Cork Tree Trail: This multi-use blue graded trail is situated on land controlled by the Table Mountain National Park and is not part of the City of Cape Town’s Green Belt Trails. It can be ridden either as a descent or climb. As a descent, it starts just inside the Cecilia plantation section of TMNP at the Southern Cross Drive intersection with Rhodes Drive. The trail follows the line of ancient Cork Oaks and is innocuous at first. There are two lines in places, the one more technical than the other before they both descend on a smooth section to a technical rock garden that can be ridden straight at speed or more safely using the short loop on the left to avoid it. There’s no hiding from the next section though, a short climb and rock filled descent that requires good balance and brake and pedal control. After this another fast straight with optional jumps before the next feature, a river bed with a steep drop in to the left that requires careful braking or a fast drop off where air time is guaranteed to the right. In winter this is a stream so expect to get wet as you cross it. Now, climb under the Cork Oaks to the steepest climb on the trail, a slippery but smooth affair with a few roots to get over before a curving descent to the roadside on Rhodes Drive. As a climb, this is where you access the trail. Its a fun technical climb in places as you reverse some of the features that may have frightened you on the way down. This trail is bi-directional and riders need to be aware of each other as well as runners and hikers often in groups.

Access Info

For the descent, the trail starts just off Rhodes Drive at the Southern Cross Drive intersection. The climb begins on Rhodes drive at the big corner under the gums.

Disclaimer

A TMNP Level 3 Activity Permit is required to enter the Cecilia and Newlands Forest areas to cycle.