Mountain Biking is one of the most popular activities in Knysna, with many well marked trails available to the avid biker. The pristine forests, mountains and coastal routes of Knysna beg exploration and, even if you are unable to cart your own bike along, the better accommodation establishments do hire them out to guests, so check when making your reservations.
Some of the more popular mountain biking venues are:
Harkerville
Harkerville forest has four circular routes with relatively easy gradients, featuring indigenous bush, plantations, fragrant fynbos and dramatic cliff tops with gorgeous ocean views. All the routes start and end at Garden of Eden, located on the N2 between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, but can also be accessed via the Forestry Office, Kranshoek Road or the Kranshoek Picnic Site. You will need to purchase a permit to ride in the forest, but these are easy to obtain either at Garden of Eden or the Kranshoek Road Gate before setting out. It is a good idea to get your hands on a map while you are there.
Montagu Pass
This trail, located in Fancourt Gardens, consists of a gravel road which twists and turns up to the quaint village of Harold. The attractive surroundings and sea views are big attractions of this trail.
Goudveld Forest
The Goudveld Forest trail starts at Krisjan-se-Nek picnic site and weaves a circular route through the forest and plantation, ending up back where you started. Considered a moderate ride, this trail features only one steep four-kilometre climb and sweeping views of the mountains and Knysna Heads. A permit is required, which can be obtained at the Goudveld boom gate.
Persus-se-Brand
Exhilarating downhills, mountain streams and breath-taking scenery are features of this trail. The trail is a one-way route between Diepwalle Forest Station and Garden of Eden, and can be enjoyed in either direction. As the forest station is the highest point for this route, it is advisable for novice riders to start from this end, as there are less uphill sections to negotiate.
Information on alternative mountain biking adventures is available from the Knysna Tourism office.
