Near Parys, on Vaal River, South Africa
LITTER-FREe / WELL-MARKED / PEACEFUL / AFFORDABLE / FRIENDLY / SECURE
Koedoeslaagte Trail Park and Venue
A natural blend of Sport & Pleasure
An unspoiled African wilderness on the banks of the Vaal River with miles of purpose-built trails for hiking, trail running and mountain biking. Paddlers can enjoy the open waters or navigate between the multiple islands. Come for a morning, enjoy a full day or stay over.
The park is nestled in the mountains of the Vredefort Crater UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is 12km from Parys (Free State) on the North West bank of the Vaal River.
ACTIVITIES
Hiking and Trail Running
Our trails are well-marked and cater for everyone; beginner to accomplished.
The trails are modular: distances ranging from 1km to 30km.
Large parts of our trails are cut wider for easy passing and a more social experience.
Parts of the trails are designed for hikers and trail runners only.
Hikers are advised to carry sufficient water and a small back-pack with them (Koedoeslaagte borehole water is perfect).
Trekking poles or hiking-kieries are advisable for the more challenging mountain routes.
Mountain - and Gravel biking
Koedoeslaagte trails are graded: easy, moderate, hard and very hard. The trails are modular: distances ranging from 2km to 30km. Most parts of our trails are cut wider for easy passing. The more difficult routes generally feature longer and steeper climbs, steeper descents and rockier terrain. The park also features a 5km SA CUP Cross Country track for those who want to challenge themselves.
The park offers easy, secure access to a wide network of rural gravel roads. If you are interested in hiring a quality mountain bike, please contact Crater MTB Rentals; They have a large fleet of mountain bikes and e-bikes stationed at Koedoeslaagte.
Contact Ras: 083 235 3786
Slimed tubes/tire liners OR tubeless tyres are advisable to help prevent punctures.
Paddling
Koedoeslaagte boasts a 1,2km river front. Our water access has been upgraded.
Motor vehicles have easy access to the waterfront. To the West, paddlers will enjoy wide open water. To the East lies a network of islands and rapids to be explored.
You are welcome to bring your own raft, canoe or kayak. Koedoeslaagte now offers quality sit-on-top kayaks and life jackets for hire: @ R75 for 2 hours per kayak including your life jacket.
Life jackets are compulsory for kids. Sorry, no launching-to-fish is allowed from Koedoeslaagte.
Horse riding
Experience the serenity of horse riding along the Vaal River and through the picturesque landscapes of our farm.
Your guide, Amilie Koekemoer, is a full-time student, but you can reach her via WhatsApp 076 408 8362, and she will get back to you with available dates and times.
In the meantime, feel free to enjoy viewing our beautiful horses on the farm. We also offer pony rides on event days!
Bird watching
The park has attracted a number of bird lovers over the years. The park decided to invest in birding.
The special 800m Otter Trail has been built to the West of the waterfront that will bring bird lovers up close to the river life. The Birds of the Vredefort Dome are well documented in a book with the same title. The book is available at reception.
The birdlife in the pristine mountain-side of the park is easily accessible via our hiking-trail network.
Play, Picnic and Kuier
- The Koedoesaal is a 30x20m barn for protection against the elements. The UITSPAN Kiosk serves coffee and offers a range of sodas, water, energy bars and something savory and sweet.
- The Anatomic Sportswear Factory Outlet offers a wide range of top quality running and cycling wear.
- The Koedoe-dam is a chlorinated and filtered farm-style “swimming” pool.
- The Koedoekraal is a 50 seater bushveld-lapa ready for a kuier and a braai.
- The Koedoeslaagte Waterfront braai and picnic area is available to day visitors.
- Please book the lapa with the park management prior to your visit. Please supply your own firewood. The kiosk sells firewood, charcoal and firelighters
XCO Running
Koedoeslaagte hosts the Fezile Dabi X-Country Running Championship League.
The 1km and 2km courses are a permanent feature. The League events attract between 300-400 runners from all age categories.
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