Join the 2026 N3TC Dino Challenge this weekend (from 1 – 2 May) against the backdrop of one of South Africa’s hidden gems — the breathtaking Golden Gate Highlands National Park near Clarens in the Free State.

The N3TC Dino Challenge is one of the few trail running and mountain biking (MTB) events hosted within one of South Africa’s national parks.

Race participants can choose from a range of routes, including 40km, 25km, or 10km trail runs, as well as either the 44km or 22km mountain bike options. For those seeking a lighter challenge, a 5km fun run and a 10km cycle are also on offer.

According to David Webster, chief sustainability officer of the SANParks Honorary Rangers, the impact of the N3TC Dino Challenge is significant for the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, local communities, and the Honorary Rangers.

“N3TC’s support over the years has greatly influenced our conservation work, especially in advancing tourism projects within Golden Gate Highlands National Park,” says Mr Webster.

With their support, the Honorary Rangers were able to establish and mark a permanent 22 km MTB trail and enhance the trail running routes within the park. These additions now remain as tourist attractions within the park, maintained by SANParks, with support from the Honorary Rangers. The infrastructure also expands the range of activities available to visitors, particularly those interested in high-altitude training.

The primary goals of the N3TC Dino Challenge are to benefit local communities, promote the Golden Gate Highlands National Park and local tourism, and raise much-needed funds for SANParks Honorary Ranger conservation initiatives, specifically conservation and tourism projects within the Golden Gate Highlands National Park.

With the recent opening of the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretive Centre, the event is expected to attract even more attention and visitors.

Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretive Centre

Opened in June 2025, this state-of-the-art interactive facility offers visitors a dynamic, world-class exploration of palaeontology, archaeology, and geology, sharing scientific knowledge in an engaging and creative environment.

Golden Gate Highlands National Park

Golden Gate Highlands National Park, established on 13 September 1923, protects areas of geological and paleontological importance, scenic beauty, and the grassland biome. It also forms part of South Africa’s Maloti-Drakensberg Transfrontier Conservation Area.

SANParks Honorary Rangers

The SANParks Honorary Rangers are volunteers who support conservation efforts and fundraise for South Africa’s national parks. With about 2 500 members across 31 regions, they work to preserve the country’s natural heritage for future generations.

“We look forward to welcoming participants and visitors this weekend,” says N3TC’s chief operating officer, Thania Dhoogra. “Take the time to enjoy all that this unique destination has to offer, and remember to drive safely and share the road responsibly.”

 

EVENT DETAILS:

📅Friday 1 May: Fun events, including the Fun Run/Ride, MTB Outride, King and Queen of the Buttress

📅Saturday 2 May: Dino Challenge – 40 km, 25 km and 10 km Trail Run (TR); and 44 km and 22 km Mountain Bike (MTB) Race

Enter here: https://goldengatechallenge2026.myactive.co.za/

Weekend Programme: https://bit.ly/4hlZHf3

Route Maps: https://goldengatechallenge2026.myactive.co.za/

Cost:    FRIDAY – between R80 – R100 for each activity I SATURDAY –  R410 (40km TR and 44km MTB) I R360 (25km TR and 22km MTB) I R180 (10km trail run).