Van Gaalen Mountain Biking & Running Trails

🚨 IMPORTANT NOTICE: FOOT-AND-MOUTH DISEASE PRECAUTIONS 🚨
Due to the recent Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak in the North West, Van Gaalen Trails is implementing precautionary measures to help protect surrounding farms, livestock, and the wider agricultural community.
Hikers, trail runners, and cyclists can unintentionally transport the virus on shoes, tyres, clothing, and equipment. To reduce this risk and assist in managing and containing the disease, certain farms and trail sections will be temporarily placed off-limits.
These measures are preventative and necessary to ensure the disease does not spread into unaffected areas or working farms in our region.
🔒 What this means:
Selected trails and farm areas will be closed until further notice
Please respect all signage, closures, and access restrictions
Avoid moving between different trail networks or farms on the same day where possible
Clean and disinfect shoes, bikes, and equipment after riding or hiking
We understand that these closures are inconvenient, but they are vital to protecting livelihoods and ensuring long-term access to trails in the area. We appreciate your cooperation, understanding, and responsible trail use during this time.
Updates will be shared as the situation develops.
Thank you for helping us protect our community and farms.
– Van Gaalen Trails

Alan Hatherly, the 2024 UCI XCO Mountain Bike World Champion, has been named the 2025 South African Sportsman of the Year.
Hatherly was up against rugby star, Pieter-Stef du Toit and track sprinter, Akine Simbine, as finalists for the prestigious award.
This the first time a cyclist has won the award.
Cycling South Africa was a finalist in the Federation of the Year category. The award was given to South African Rugby Union.