Trail running is a sport/activity which consists of running and hiking over trails. It differs from road running and track running in that it generally takes place on hiking trails, often in mountainous terrain, where there can be much larger ascents and descents. It is difficult to definitively distinguish trail running from cross country running.
In general, however, cross country is an IAAF governed discipline that is typically raced over shorter distances. The amount of organized trail races has grown over the past few years throughout the world and runners often cite less impact stress compared to road running, as well as the landscape and non-urban environment, as primary reasons for preferring trail running.
The passes listed here are those which gain you entry to the escarpment and Lesotho, where the average altitude above sea level usually exceeds 3 000 metres. Because of the height climbed (which may exceed 1 km), the thin air, the distances involved, their steepness and even their remoteness, passes are among the greatest physical and mental challenges that a hiker can face in South Africa.
The condition of the passes varies considerably. Some can be easily negotiated by beginners, while others will require the use of ropes in some sections. Conditions are also affected by the time of year - in winter some of the passes may be iced up and too dangerous to use, and in summer they may be too wet.
The Drakensberg Mountains offer opportunities for some of the finest hiking in the world. With its sheer cliffs, its fauna, its flora and its San rock art, a hike in the Maloti-Drakensberg Park is a unique experience. The park allows for all levels of hiking, from a stroll around the camp to the most strenuous hikes onto the escarpment.
You need to be prepared for whatever the weather conditions are when you go for a hike, and you need to be able to find your way back home again.
The Drakensberg Mountains offer opportunities for some of the finest hiking in the world. With its sheer cliffs, its fauna, its flora and its San rock art, a hike in the Maloti-Drakensberg Park is a unique experience. The park allows for all levels of hiking, from a stroll around the camp to the most strenuous hikes onto the escarpment.
You need to be prepared for whatever the weather conditions are when you go for a hike, and you need to be able to find your way back home again.
