Spectacular Scenery in the Golden Gate Dino Challenge

The inaugural Golden Gate Dino Challenge MTB and Trail Run on 8 March 2025 saw some 350 runners and riders from across the country descend upon the Golden Gate Highlands National Park.

Organised by the SANParks Honorary Rangers in partnership with South African National Parks (SANParks) and the N3 Toll Concession (N3TC), the event offered various route options, including a 40 km, 25 km and 10 km trail run and 44 km and 22 km mountain bike route option. A 5 km fun run and 10 km fun ride were also on offer.

The Golden Gate Dino Challenge gives runners and riders the unique opportunity to ride or run through the breathtaking mountain scenery of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park.

Not for the feint-hearted, they face steep terrain and a few technical challenges thrown in for good measure. The rewards are many: spectacular scenery, stunning views, trickling streams, wildlife sightings and unusual rock formations, to name but a few. This may be one of the country’s toughest trail runs but is also one of the most beautiful.

“The Dino Challenge held this past weekend in the Golden Gate Highlands National Park was a resounding success,” says Paddy Gordon, Park Manager. “The park’s natural estate was in excellent condition, making the event all the more attractive. Participants have enthused about the scenery, the beautiful veld condition and the privilege of being able to run and cycle in such a special place.”

“The SANParks Honorary Rangers excelled in planning, resourcing and managing the entire event and we are grateful to N3TC for their sponsorship and support for the development of permanent mountain bike and trail run routes in the park,” says Gordon.

N3TC’s Chief Operating Officer, Thania Dhoogra, added, “Given the historical significance of the area, it was a privilege to be afforded the opportunity to sponsor this year’s Dino Challenge and to assist with the permanent development of trails. N3TC values the work of SANParks, together with the SANParks Honorary Rangers, to preserve our vitally important biomes and rich cultural history.”

“This initiative aligns closely with our belief that we, as South Africans, have a responsibility to do our utmost to protect, and responsibly enjoy, our natural and historical heritage. The breathtaking vistas offered by the park and Mother Nature are incomparable and I sincerely hope that everyone there took the time to experience first-hand, some of the wonders which are unique to the area, and help to spread the word far and wide,” says Dhoogra.