Kaapsehoop Mountain Ultra 2026

FRESH Kaapsehoop Mountain Ultra on 09 August 2026

KAAPSEHOOP

Kaapsehoop is a charming, misty, and serene village. Perched on a mountain pass along the Drakensberg escarpment above Nelspruit, it emerges slowly, as if from the mists of history.

The village's gravel roads are illuminated by lantern-style lights, and it boasts a collection of quaint shops and eateries. With its moderate climate, Kaapsehoop remains pleasantly cool during the summer, while the Lowveld swelters below.

A particularly enchanting feature is the herd of wild horses, numbering around 200, that roam freely among the houses and across the plateau. The village holds these horses in high regard.

Unique to the area are the blue swallows and a series of ancient stones known as Adam’s Calendar, hinting at a mystical and ancient human history.

Blue swallows are a rare sight in South Africa, and part of the escarpment is designated as a blue swallow natural heritage site.

From this vantage point, there are breathtaking views over the Lowveld, especially of the Baberton valley, also known as De Kaap Valley. Once referred to as the ‘valley of death’ due to malaria, Kaapsehoop has always been spared, thanks to its altitude.

Originally spelled Kaapsche Hoop, the town was established during the 1873 gold rush. Its name, meaning ‘hope of the Cape,’ reflects the prospectors' dreams of finding gold.

This picturesque setting is perfect for a Fresh Trails experience, offering pristine trail running!

1. DATE AND DISTANCES

09 August 2025 (Sunday):

69km with an elevation gain of 2750m, featuring 6 aid stations. Entries close on 31 July.

45km with an elevation gain of 1800m, featuring 4 aid stations. Late entries are available on the day for an additional R100.

17km with a 540m elevation gain and 1 aid station. Late entries are available on the day for an extra R50. Dog on Leash Friendly

8km with a 235m elevation gain and 1 aid station. Late entries are available on the day for an extra R50. Dog on Leash Friendly

Province: Mpumalanga

Town: Kaapsehoop

Race Village: Kaapsehoop Pear Orchard Picnic Site

Trail Description: The route includes plantation jeep tracks, flowing single tracks, Kaapsehoop rock formations, and grassland escarpments with misty mountains and plantations.

• TIME

08 August 2025 @ Kaapsehoop Race Village:

Registration, compulsory kit checks, and late entries from 16h00 to 18h00.

09 August 2025 @ Kaapsehoop Race Village:

Late registration from 05h00 to 05h30 for the 69km race (no late entries for 69km).

Late registration and entries from 05h00 to 06h30 for the 45km, 17km, and 8km races (07h30).

Race Start Times:

69km starts at 06h00 with a race briefing at 05h45.

45km starts at 07h00 with a race briefing at 06h45.

17km starts at 07h30 with a race briefing at 07h15. Dog Friendly.

8km starts at 08h00 with a race briefing at 07h45. Dog Friendly.

Prize Giving for the 17km, 45km, and 8km races will be at 13h00 at the Race Village.

Prize Giving for the 69km race will be at 19h00 on Saturday at the Race Village.

• COSTS

The 69km race costs R1800, with entries closing on 31 July.

The 45km race costs R950, with an additional R100 for late entries. It includes 4 aid stations.

The 17km race costs R380, with an extra R50 for late entries. It includes 2 aid stations.

The 8km race costs R250, with an extra R50 for late entries. It includes 1 aid station.

Race Shirt is available for R400.

Race Cap is available for R380.

• INCLUDED

Participants in the 69km race receive a TRUCKER CAP or Buff.

A FINISHER MEAL is provided for the 69km race.

Enjoy FRESH MOUNTAIN HOSPITALITY.

Spend a GREAT TIME WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS.

WATER POINTS are available on the route and at the finish.

Finishers receive a MEDAL OR CRAFT BEER.

The route is WELL MARKED.

MEDICAL STAFF will be present.

ABLUTION FACILITIES are available.

FOOD AND REFRESHMENT STALLS will be on site.