Dive into the essence of trail running with the Karkloof Trail Run's 30 Miler. Set in the heart of the majestic Karkloof Valley, this event on 19-21 Sept 2025 offers a perfect blend of challenge and scenic beauty. It's an ideal race for those seeking to step into the world of ultra-running. Prepare for a journey that's as rewarding as it is picturesque.
KK30
The 30 Miler fosters a strong sense of community, welcoming runners to be part of a larger celebration of trail running and outdoor adventure.
Perfect for both newcomers and seasoned runners, this race offers a manageable yet thrilling distance.
Explore the diverse trails of Karkloof, from serene forests to gentle hills, in a 30 mile course filled with natural splendour.
Experience the enchanting Karkloof forests, rolling hills, and the iconic Karkloof Falls, offering a race course that is as beautiful as it is challenging.
Race Specific Details
The 30 Miler is a point-to-point trail race and will take runners through the indigenous forests, farmlands and plantations of the Karkloof Valley. The route will start at the Bushwillow Gardens and traverse the rest of the 100 & 50 Miler route through to the finish at Karkloof Country Club with an elevation gain of 1500m.
In addition to the Aid Station, we have self-help water points (water & Coke) between each aid station.
30Miles | 48km with 712M
There are 2 major Aid Stations (AS) that serve the 30 Milers once each with water points (WP) between. A description of what they will be stocked with will be shared in the event guide published on the 6th of September.
Gatmore - WP
Karkloof Country Club - AS
Airstrip - WP
Karkloof Country Club - AS
Karkloof Falls - WP
Mandatory Equipment and Race Requirements
Always Be Prepared: Carry your mandatory equipment throughout the race to ensure safety and compliance.
Expect Spot Checks: Equipment checks can occur before, during, or after the race. Stay prepared!
Consequences for Non-Compliance: Missing any mandatory gear could lead to penalties, including time penalties or disqualification.
Mandatory Gear List
GPX Watch with file and navigation active.
Liquid carrying capacity: 500ml to 1L (weather dependent).
Waterproof Jacket (weather dependent).
Charged Phone.
Space Blanket.
Race Number
Reserve food: 200 Calories.
Bandage/strapping (minimum size 5x50cm).
Headlamp (not required during daytime).
The organisers may adjust these requirements based on extreme weather conditions.
Camping is sold separate and needs to be booked Self-camping accommodation is costed at a per person per night basis and does not include a tent, mattress, or any other camping accessories.
Spectators, supporters and pacers are required to purchase additional camping, per person, per night.
Booking for camping will be done through the Karkloof Trail Run and not via the Karkloof Country Club. Additional Accommodation throughout the valley is available. Google and Airbnb have all the options. We do not suggest, offer or broker additional accommodation for anyone.
Crew form an integral part of the race, and many runners regard it as a team effort.
You can see your runners at the following places:
Gatmore - WP
Karkloof Country Club - AS
Karkloof Country Club - AS
This gives you 3 places access points along a 30-mile route!
The access roads to checkpoints and viewpoints are a combination of tar and dirt roads but all passable with a standard sedan vehicle. Some dirt sections are in poor condition.
Please do not go in search of your own spectator points as you may jeopardise the future of the race by annoying local landowners.
Please drive as slowly as possible to improve the safety of everyone around you. There are sections of the course where the runners and crew vehicles share the course, although far fewer than before. There is a tendency to rush between points, but this is unnecessary as there is enough time to get between the points ahead of your runners on each occasion.
Please do not enter the Runners’ Only Area of the Aid Stations.
Food and liquids at each aid station and water point are for runners and pacers only. You need to be self-sufficient.
Please do not go onto any other private land whatsoever - this jeopardises the future of the race.
If you are found trespassing, or not abiding by the above, your runner will be disqualified immediately.
Every 30Miler finisher who completes the race will receive a Finisher Medal.
Prize Money
Prize money will be confirmed closer to the event.
We will have a limited amount of elite entries. Elite athletes receiving complimentary entry who earn cash prizes will have the entry fee value deducted from their total prize amount.
Entry Policy
Registration Agreement:
By registering for the Karkloof Trail Run, participants agree to the event terms, including the Refunds and Deferral Policy, and acknowledge the inherent risks associated with trail running.
Non-Transferable:
All entries are personal and non-transferable. Participants may not assign or sell their entry or race bib to another individual.
Race Category Changes:
Downgrades: Participants may downgrade to a shorter race distance until 01 September, subject to availability. No refunds will be issued for downgrades.
Upgrades: Participants may upgrade to a longer distance until 01 September, provided space is available. The price difference must be paid at the time of the request.
Refund Policy
Refund requests must be submitted in writing to [insert email address] by the following deadlines:
80% refund for cancellations made before 01 June.
50% refund for cancellations made before 01 August.
30% refund for cancellations made before 01 September.
No refunds for cancellations made on or after 01 September.
Non-Refundable Items:
A 10% administration fee will be deducted from all refunds.
Refunds do not include additional purchases such as camping, merchandise, or shuttle bookings.
Deferral Policy
Eligibility:
Deferral requests must be submitted in writing to rd@karklooftrailrun.co.za by 30 July.
Deferrals are valid for one year only and are subject to event capacity for the following year.
Strict Conditions:
Deferrals will only be granted for pregnancy. No other reasons, including injury, illness, lack of training, work commitments, or travel, will be accepted.
A medical certificate confirming the pregnancy must be submitted by 07 August.
Additional Costs:
Participants are responsible for any additional entry fee costs if the event price increases for the deferred year.
Force Majeure Policy
Event Cancellation or Postponement:
If the event is canceled or postponed due to circumstances beyond the Organisers' control (e.g., natural disasters, extreme weather, or civil unrest), no refunds will be issued.
Entries will automatically be deferred to the rescheduled event date, if the event has not started.
Unforeseen Circumstances Include:
Acts of God (e.g., floods, earthquakes, snow, or fires).
Safety concerns for participants and spectators.
Acts of terrorism, war, or civil unrest.
On Route:
Event Guidelines and Etiquette for the Karkloof Trail Run
Rugged Terrain Alert: Our routes take you through some challenging, single-track hiking trails. By participating, you're acknowledging and accepting the inherent risks.
Race Bib Display: If you're in the 100, 50, or 30 Miler, ensure your race bib is in clear sight at all times.
Stay Alert and Trust the Markings: Our course is clearly marked, but some good old-fashioned trail-finding skills and a sprinkle of common sense are always a bonus.
Respect the Markers: Meddling with route markers isn't just naughty—it'll get you disqualified.
Trail Courtesy: Remember the golden rules—keep to the left, pass on the right, and always be vigilant about potential blind spots.
Exiting the Race: If you've reached your limit and need to bow out, please inform the nearest race official. This simple act ensures we don’t assume you're lost, and it keeps you in good standing for future events.
Compulsory Equipment:
Always Be Prepared: It's essential to carry your mandatory equipment throughout the race.
Expect Spot Checks: Be ready! We might conduct equipment checks at any point—before, during, or even after the race.
Don't Get Caught Short: If you're missing any mandatory gear, consequences could range from a time penalty to outright disqualification. Better safe than sorry!
General:
Run Clean: Performance-enhancing substances are a no-go. Be prepared, as we might conduct random tests.
Voice Your Concerns Promptly: If you have any protests, make them known within 60 minutes of crossing the finish line.
Play Nice: Unsporting behaviour or mistreatment of officials is not only frowned upon but can also get you disqualified.
Spread Positivity: Our volunteers are the unsung heroes of the event. A simple "thank you" and a smile can make their day. Let's show them some love!
Weather:
Be Over-Prepared: While distances may vary, we recommend having all items from the equipment list. It's better to have and not need than to need and not have.
Stay Adaptable: Please note, that organizers may adjust the list of compulsory items as circumstances dictate.
Rain or Shine, We're On: Unless Disaster Management steps in, the event will go forward.
Safety First: In the face of extreme conditions, organizers prioritize safety and may decide to cancel. Always stay informed!
Lost and Found:
Personal items left after the race will be donated. Items will not be shipped.
Vehicles to Spectator Points:
Spectators can travel to designated viewing areas.
Just a reminder that our organizers have the flexibility to modify the routing and format as the event unfolds. Adaptability is key! Stay informed and enjoy the race.