Green Forest Trail Run Series – Race #2 Paarl

Due to COVID-19, we have not been able to confirm dates for 2022

 The Western Cape’s favourite downhill run!

Join us for Race #2 of the Green Forest Trail Run Series, a (mainly) downhill run through the beautiful Hawequa Forest in Paarl.

You are guaranteed to have a blast on this scenic run that takes you from the very top of Du Toit’s Kloof Pass, winds its way down through the undulating forest trails and across protea plantations and on to the finish at Dvine Estate.

We have secured special permissions for this race so be prepared to find yourself in areas where you would not be allowed on any other day!

We have hired buses to take you from Dvine Estate (registration and finish) to the start of the 10km and 21km. We will have a vehicle at the start line that can take odd pieces of clothing (not bags) back to Dvine for you but please make sure that it is marked with your name and remember to collect at the finish line. All clothing left behind will be donated to charity.

If you are doing the 21km or 10km, there is no parking for vehicles at the start (Hawequa Forest). You need to park at Dvine Estate. Race numbers, coffee, snacks and ablutions are all at Dvine Estate. Buses will depart from Dvine Estate from 7h00.

Entries are limited to 500 so enter now to avoid disappointment.

Route description:

21km

Ascent: 358m.  Descent: 919m.

The run starts at the highest point, the pinnacle of du Toit’s Kloof Pass, boasting amazing views of Paarl Rock and Table Mountain in the distance. The route progresses along the old forestry roads for the first few kilometers, gradually winding its way downwards. What goes down must come a little up, so be prepared to do a gradual single track climb on the soft pine needles.

Just past the halfway mark, runners exit Hawequa and the views open up again and you get to appreciate the beautiful views over the Paarl Winelands.  As you enter the Cape floral kingdom, the finish venue is in sight (in the distance).  Runners pass through fields and fields of fynbos and proteas and begin the descent into the valley.  The last few kilometers are mainly downhill through the orchards, vineyards, across the odd river or two and on to the finish at Dvine Estate.

10km

Ascent: 207m.  Descent: 654m.

The run starts at the highest point, the pinnacle of du Toit’s Kloof Pass, boasting amazing views of Paarl Rock and Table Mountain in the distance. The first 2km is a fast descent on the old forest roads. (in the distance).  Runners pass through fields and fields of fynbos and proteas and begin the descent into the valley.  The last few kilometres are mainly downhill through the orchards, vineyards, across the odd river or two and on to the finish at Dvine Estate.

5km

This Fun Run is recommended for families and runners that are new to trail running and want to give it a try. There are prizes for the top finishers, so for those that want to go for it, there is a chance to walk away with a prize from one of our generous sponsors!

This is a pretty route with very little altitude gain. Runners/walkers will make their way through a stream, get a chance to stretch their legs on gravel roads through the forest and orchards and still get back in time to cheer on the 10km and 21km runners as they come in to the finish. We are happy for young children to bring their bikes and to ride next to their parents but be warned, there are some sections where you may have to carry the bike. There will be no timing on this route. We have not created a route profile for the 5km. Trust us, it’s flat.

Directions to Start and Finish

Dvine Estate: Registration and parking for all events

• Take the N1 outbound from Cape Town
• Continue past Paarl in the direction of the Hugenot Tunnel
• Take the Sonstraal Rd turnoff (just before the tunnel)
• Turn left into Sonstraal Rd and at the first stop sign turn right into Langenhoven Ave
• Langenhoven Ave is also know as the R101 and it takes you over du Toit’s Pass
• Continue for 3km on Langenhoven Ave until reaching Dvine Estate.

* All competitors are required to agree to the terms and conditions of our Indemnity.

Join us at Dvine Estate for food, drinks, prize giving and a great vibe after the race.

Please note that the 21km and 10km are not circular routes, the start and finish are in different places. Participants that are doing the 21km and 10km should park at Dvine Estate and take the bus to the start.