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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 available online or from your your local bike shop in George. Once paid online, you can collect your Hillbillies permit card from our local bike shops.

Membership fees for 2025 are as follows:

Adults - R450 each
Kids (12years and younger) - R150 each
Family Package - R1000 per family
*Prices valid till Feb 2025!

Available at Bike Shops R150.00 per license. Day licenses are valid for 5 days.

For further information, please contact:

Braam Pretorius: 082 823 4264

60 MINUTE MAYHEM - FREE TO HILLBILLIES MEMBERS

The Hillbillies host time trials (“60 Minute Mayhem”) at the Trail Kiosk cafe on a regular basis. The event provides 60 minutes to do as many laps as you can / want on the XCO track and is timed by the club volunteers. Routes and directions will vary and events will be advertised on the Hillbillies social media pages. The Trail Kiosk is open for these events and bring your friends and family for a Sugarbird coffee, pizza or picnic under the trees. Events will be posted on the members Facebook page and Whatsapp groups.

Buy your yearly membership here

COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Chairman
(Vacant)
Vice Chairman
Braam Pretorius
Secretary
Sulene Brand: membership@hillbillies.co.za
Treasurer
Isobel Rohwer
Trail Building and Maintenance
Richard Müller
Additional Members
Emile Kaselowski
Chris Barrett

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.

Coimbra Cycle House
R&A Cycle & Run
Ride Life George
BSC GEORGE