This is one of the bigger Table Mountain rides, climbing from Rhodes Memorial into the mountain network and linking the route with the Blockhouse and wide views across Cape Town. The sustained climbing makes it a substantial outing, but much of the riding is straightforward rather than highly technical.
The character of the route is jeep track and mountain road rather than singletrack. Long climbs and open traverses are the main event, with the elevation bringing changing views over the city, Table Bay and the surrounding slopes as the route gains height.
Route description
From the Rhodes Memorial parking area, the jeep track climbs steeply towards Plum Pudding, so the route gets to work almost immediately. After crossing the high ground, the next climb heads towards the Blockhouse, where the views over Cape Town begin to open up.
From there the route loses height before climbing towards Tafelberg Road. Leave the tar at Dead Man’s Tree and return to jeep track, where some of the steeper descending begins. The final section turns back towards Rhodes Memorial and climbs to the starting point.
Technical difficulty
The riding is mostly on jeep track and mountain road, so the challenge comes more from sustained climbing and gradient than from highly technical trail features. The steeper descents around Dead Man’s Tree require more attention, particularly where speed builds on loose or uneven surfaces.
Fitness and climbing
With 914 m of climbing over the full loop, this is one of the biggest climbing days among our featured MTB routes. The effort is spread across several sustained climbs rather than one continuous ascent, with little opportunity for a gentle warm-up from Rhodes Memorial.
Trailforks rates the route Moderate for physical difficulty, a useful reminder that total elevation gain is only one part of judging how demanding a ride will feel.
Best time to ride
An early start is preferable, particularly in warmer weather. Much of the route is exposed, and the long climbs can become demanding in summer heat. Clear conditions also make the most of the views from the higher sections around the Blockhouse, while cloud can reduce visibility on the mountain even when conditions are clear lower down.
Safety
This is a shared part of the mountain used by walkers, runners and other riders, and the route also joins tar road in places. Control speed on the steeper descents and ride within available sight lines. The route can be ridden in either direction, so be prepared for riders approaching from ahead.
