Trials riding, especially the technical motorcycle trials, can be a niche sport, so finding dedicated venues can sometimes be challenging. Most internet searches point to Mountain Biking (MTB), Enduro, and 4x4 trails in the Johannesburg/Gauteng area, which often overlap with the type of terrain used for trials riding, such as rocks, steep climbs, and technical obstacles.
Related: What is motorcycle trials riding?
For motorcycle trials riding specifically, the best way to find current venues is often to connect with local clubs, as they manage the dedicated "sections" - the specific obstacle courses used for competition, which frequently move to different locations.
The cheapest way to start trials riding in South Africa
Join the club
The main club in the area is Trials SA (formerly known as the Northern Regions Trials Club). They focus on the inland region around Gauteng and host events and championships on the first Sunday of every month. You can check their website or social media for their events calendar, as this will list the current venues being used for their competitions, which are the most authentic trials riding locations. These events are typically held on private land or dedicated sections, which may not be publicly listed as "trails" on general hiking or MTB websites.
Here are five popular venues and trails known for offering challenging, technical terrain, or that are associated with off-road/enduro/4x4 clubs that may host trials events.
| Venue/Trail | Location | Relevant terrain & features |
| 1. Heidelberg 4x4/Enduro Adventure Park | Heidelberg (South East of Joburg) | Known for a selection of trails, including sand, mud, water crossings, steep gradients, mountain tracks, and rocks. The variety of tracks often appeals to trials riders. |
| 2. Hennops Off-road Trail | Hennops (West of Pretoria, North of Joburg) | Offers steep gradients, rocks, mud, water crossings, sand, and axle-twisting dongas. It's a classic off-road location, perfect for practising technical skills. |
| 3. Kings Kloof Trails | Muldersdrift/Krugersdorp (West of Joburg) | Features rocky terrain, calf-busting climbs, and river crossings, with trails ranging from easy to challenging. |
| 4. Thaba Trails | Mulbarton, Johannesburg South | Hosts some of the hardest single-lane trails in the south of Johannesburg, with rocky climbs and koppies (small hills). |
| 5. Bass Lake Adventures | Henley on Klip (South of Joburg) | While often associated with diving, it is also listed as having 4x4 trails with steep gradients, water crossings, and mud. |
