Blythedale Trail Run May 2026
Part of the Blythedale series
Available Races
Short Course
The Short Course may be the most compact of the Blythedale Trail routes, but it still delivers a proper taste of coastal trail running. Starting and finishing just off the beach, runners head out along the forest edge to the Mdlotane Estuary before turning inland, where the route begins to climb steadily away from the shoreline. The early kilometres are gentle and runnable, easing you into the race before a more sustained ascent through shaded coastal forest. This steady climb is the heart of the route, but once on the upper trails, the course rolls along undulating singletrack with glimpses back toward the ocean, before turning and dropping back toward the coast. The descent is flowing and fast, rewarding the effort and funnels runners back toward the finish at Grumpy’s with the sound of the sea as a backdrop. This is an ideal introduction to trail running, or a fast, punchy option for those looking to push the pace while still soaking up the Blythedale scenery.
Medium Course
The Medium Course strikes a beautiful balance between runnable flow and honest climbing, showcasing the variety of the Blythedale Trail. From the seaside start, participants move inland, initially following the Mdlotane Estuary on forested singletrack, gradually gaining elevation as the route weaves through dense vegetation and shaded corridors. The first climb takes the course away from the beach and onto higher ground, where rolling terrain keeps the legs working without feeling relentless. The course undulates through indigenous coastal forests, timber plantations and sugarcane and in the final kilometres turning back toward the coast, with a flowing descent back towards the finish line at Grumpy’s. This route is perfect for runners ready to step beyond the short distance and experience a fuller, more layered trail adventure.
Long Course
The Long Course is a full exploration of Blythedale’s coastal forests, river valleys, and rolling hills, designed for runners who want time on their feet and variety underfoot. After the seaside start, the route heads inland along the Mdlotane Estuary, climbing steadily into the forest. Early elevation gain sets the tone, with long, steady climbs broken up by short runnable sections that let you find a sustainable rhythm. The course winds deep into the sugarcane plantations and forests, traversing valleys hillocks with seaviews. The course undulates throughout, with some climbs long and patient, others shorter and steeper, but provides regular relief of the descents through shaded forest. As the course turns back toward the coastline, the climbs become shorter, the salty air stronger and the sense of achievement at the finish line well earned! This is a route for those who want the complete Blythedale experience, challenging, scenic, and deeply satisfying.
About this event
The trail leads toward the scenic Mdlotane Estuary, where river and sea converge in a striking natural display. From here, the course transitions into a mix of flowing single track and more rugged dirt roads, weaving through dense coastal forest and pockets of thick shrubland.
For those taking on the longer distances, the route stretches further inland, incorporating sugar farm tracks to build both distance and challenge. It’s more than just a race — it’s an immersive journey through the untamed beauty of the coast, where forest canopy meets ocean breeze, and every step is carried by the sound of the sea.
Reviews
Shaun Taylor
Did the Long Course in 2026Amazing as usual ❤️
Alexandra Harrison
Did the Short Course in 2026Great organisation and host location, plenty of parking. Sandy trails make it challenging, but nice variety and great event.
