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OUR CLUB

The Hillbillies started in 1996 as a way of bringing mountain bikers together and as a voice to address issues related to mountain biking in George. Trail Runners and Hikers have since joined in our efforts to emphasize environmental stewardship, development, and upkeep of trails. Together our mission is to foster a deep appreciation for nature and encourage the exploration of our beautiful surroundings.

The following aims are based on the objectives and aims as documented in our constitution:

  • Promote mountain biking, trail running, and hiking in the George area
  • Attract both local and tourist enthusiasts to explore the diverse trails
  • Establish a comprehensive code of conduct for mountain bikers, trail runners, and hikers, emphasizing environmental care and protection
  • Collaborate with local authorities to develop and maintain mountain bike, trail running, and hiking routes
  • Provide training and development opportunities for individuals interested in these sports
  • Encourage appreciation of nature and enjoyment of the outdoors

LOCAL TRAILS

The Hillbillies Mountain Bike Club prides itself on creating and maintaining trails on environmentally sustainable and best practices principles. A total of 141 dedicated mountain bike single track trails, totalling a glorious 130 km, is maintained by the club. Adding the popular MTB trails on jeep tracks and forestry access roads in the proximity of George (between Malgas River and Kaaimans River), the trail network expands to 228 km. There are a host of forest roads East and West of central George (like Jonkersberg and Groenkop), which do not form part of the figures above. Trail information is available on Trailforks.

All lower mountain trails (generally below the upper railway line), including the CTC plantations at Witfontein, Saasveld and George Municipality water catchment area, are maintained by the Hillbillies. The trails are popular amongst all trail users, i.e., MTBers, trail runners, hikers and dogs. This necessitated the trail rebranding to 'Hillbillies Trails', since various trail users are accommodated. Club membership fees are used to cover trail expenses with once-off support from George Municipality, race organisers, Nelson Mandela University, and much appreciated contributions from individuals.

Our commitment is to upgrade and maintain the trail network and we utilise various forums to update members on trail conditions and general news regarding our activities. Member feedback is encouraged to track trail conditions and suggestions.

Hillbillies Trails are marked by means of our distinct yellow trailboards indicating amongst others the trail name, potential users, etc. Your membership fee grants you year round access to the trail network and the opportunity to #Belekker. If you’re visiting from out of town, you can purchase a trailpass at any of the local bike shops, or by using your bank or zapper app to purchase a permit on any of our trail boards.

  • Week trail permit: R150
  • Day trail permit: R50

Respect our trails, be courteous to other trail users and #Belekker

Trailforks is a mountain biking trail database & management system, supplemented with local user content. The Trailforks platform is used to keep track of trail details, locations and conditions.

You can view our Hillbillies trails here. Please be sure to download the trailforks app on your mobile device to use on the go!

MEMBERSHIP

Immerse yourself in the heart of outdoor adventure by becoming a member of Hillbillies Trails. Dive into the excitement of mountain biking, hiking, and trail running alongside a passionate community dedicated to preserving and expanding our trail network.

As a valued member, you wield significant influence in advocating for trail maintenance and expansion. With your support, we can effectively engage local authorities, government bodies, and land managers to ensure the growth and sustainability of our outdoor playground.

Joining our club not only benefits you but also enriches the entire outdoor community. Whether you're tearing up the trails on two wheels, exploring scenic paths on foot, or conquering rugged terrain as a trail runner, your membership strengthens our collective voice and ensures future generations can experience the beauty of our natural landscapes. Join us now and be a part of something greater than yourself.

Membership can be purchased on the website. Once paid online, you can collect your permit armband for the year at your bike shop. Stickers are also available at the shops for members that prefer the number boards.

Membership fees are as follows:

Adults - R500 each
Kids (12years and younger) - R150 each
Family Package - R1200 per family

As a Hillbillies member you enjoy a range of perks:

  • 10% discount on adventure canyon trips with Paradise Adventures
  • 10% one-time discount on selected equipment items at all local bike shops (inquire in-store when picking up your member board or armband)
  • Unlimited access to all maintained Hillbillies trails
  • Exclusive member events, group rides and time trials
  • Trail condition updates and trail information
  • Being part of a passionate trail community while directly supporting trail building and maintenance

Day License: R150.00 per license. Valid for 5 days.

Available at Bike Shops

For further information, please contact:

Simone Sharpe Sahm: membership@hillbillies.co.za

Buy your yearly membership here

COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Chairman
Marthinus Esmeyer
Vice Chairman
Dan Fowler
Digital and Technology
Louis van Tonder
Finance + Ad hoc
Sarel Hiemstra
Master Trail Builder
Richard Muller
Membership Manager
Simone Sharpe
Secretary
Fanus Jacobsz
Trails
Henk Louw
Trails
Anthony Martin
Trails, Event support
Sean van Niekerk
Trails, Media
Hayden Brown
Trails, Website & General
Chris Barrett
Treasurer
Roulof Hefer

CONTACT US

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SPONSORS

We would like to thank all our great sponsors.

Local Bike Shops

A website can’t thread brake cables through a frame, well not unless you live next door to the Shimano factory in Japan or the cathedral della Campagnolo in Italy. Our local bike shops are our first port of call when you want someone who can properly re-true your wheels or accurately tune your gears, unless, of course, you’ve taught yourself already. Bike shops mean mechanics, and that means people with bags of technical experience and the know how to fix your machine – so you don’t have to make a bodged job of it yourself. Support local and enable our shops to provide continued great service.

Bicycle Service Centre
Crank to Crown
RANDA Cycles
Ride Life
Specialized George
Willie Marx Cycles